In a celebration of “love in action,” The Salvation Army Camden Kroc Center hosted its Annual Volunteer Luncheon on April 23, to honor the individuals and groups whose service fuels the center’s mission. The event, held during National Volunteer Week, culminated in the presentation of the Volunteer Organization of the Year award to Freedom Mortgage.
The luncheon gathered more than 130 attendees to reflect on a year of massive community impact. Over the past 12 months, Kroc Center volunteers contributed nearly 8,300 hours of service, supporting everything from youth athletics and food distribution to spiritual outreach.
The recognition of Freedom Mortgage highlights a deep, year-round collaboration. While the company serves as the Kroc Center’s lead donor during the Christmas season, its employees are frequent fixtures at the center, providing hands-on volunteer support for families throughout the City of Camden.
“Together with Freedom Mortgage, we’ve built a history of love in action in the lives of those we serve,” Major Lola Sanchez, administrator of the Camden Kroc Center said. “That kind of generosity creates a ripple effect that extends far beyond what we can measure.”
Mike Patterson, chief operating officer of Freedom Mortgage, accepted the award on behalf of the company. “At Freedom Mortgage, we believe home is the foundation for opportunity, security, and hope,” Patterson stated. “We’re proud to stand alongside this organization to strengthen, through service, the communities we call home.”
The event featured a keynote address from Ronnie Kaymore, a member of The Salvation Army New Jersey Division State Board. Kaymore emphasized that volunteerism is not just about labor, but about the lasting transformation of the city.
Volunteers are essential to the daily operations of the 125,000-square-foot facility, which has seen over 2.5 million visits since it opened in 2014. These dedicated supporters help maintain the center as a safe haven for:
- Youth Programs: Mentorship and recreational activities.
- Wellness & Health: Fitness and aquatic programs for all ages.
- Community Outreach: Direct assistance with food insecurity and crisis support.
The Camden Kroc Center is a state-of-the-art community hub where “opportunity meets potential.” Representing a legacy of service in Camden dating back to 1880, the center provides holistic programming designed to transform the body, soul, and spirit of the region’s families, youth, and seniors.
As a nonprofit organization, the Kroc Center relies on the generosity of the public and the dedication of its volunteers to keep its programs accessible to more than 25,000 annual visitors.
Get Involved: To join the volunteer network or make a financial contribution to support Camden families, visit camdenkroccenter.org.
