Get to Know…Shannon Graham with The Salvation Army

Explain The Salvation Army’s mission and how you got involved with the organization.

The Salvation Army is dedicated to addressing the startling realities of poverty, addiction, and homelessness across North Texas. As the largest social services provider in the region, The Salvation Army meets human needs without discrimination to enable transformations of individuals and society. Their mission goes far beyond simply ‘Doing the Most Good,’ which drove me to get involved. Several years ago, a good friend introduced me to The Army and gave me a first-hand look at the organization’s life-changing programs and services. Drawn to serve, I jumped in full force and began volunteering at one of their food pantries in Dallas. I was so impressed with the vital resources The Army provides to so many members of our community who are fighting addiction, poverty, and homelessness.

Tell us a little about yourself and your background.

I grew up in Little Rock and attended Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee, where I was a member of Chi Omega Fraternity. I’ve been blessed with two amazing sons and have a golden retriever named Auria, which is Latin for “golden.” My involvement with The Salvation Army has grown beyond volunteering at the food pantry to being a part of the Dallas Women’s Auxiliary and chairing this year’s Fashion Show & Luncheon on May 7th! I’m also actively involved in the Crystal Charity Ball, After-School All-Stars, and Equest. In my spare time, I enjoy being with my family and spending time outdoors.

What makes The Salvation Army so special and impactful to the Dallas community?

From those seeking financial assistance to those looking for their next place to sleep, The Salvation Army is there to help families and individuals get back on their feet. The staff and volunteers in North Texas know just how far a small donation can go, and they use all monetary contributions to their fullest potential.

Providing emergency assistance to help families through tough times is a cause that is special to my heart. The Salvation Army goes beyond meeting families at the point of crisis — it provides both short- and long-term resources that enables stability and self-sufficiency. It’s important that no parent worries about whether or not their children have a bed or where their next meal will come from.

What do you enjoy the most about being a part of the The Salvation Army organization?

In addition to meeting some of my dearest friends in the Dallas Women’s Auxiliary, I have loved working alongside these amazing women in the community. Whether serving meals at a local Corps Community Center or collecting donated clothing for the Fashion Show & Luncheon, it’s an honor to be part of “the army behind the Army” that is so passionate about serving North Texans in a myriad of ways.

How does support from community partners like Highland Park Village help The Salvation Army have a greater impact?

The Salvation Army’s community partners have more impact than people realize. The Fashion Show & Luncheon is the Auxiliary’s only fundraising event, and we couldn’t do it without Highland Park Village’s help! As the Runway Sponsor, Highland Park Village provides resources and assistance vital to the success of our unique fashion show, which is styled exclusively from new and gently used donated designer clothing. You will see 15 lovely new outfits in our show that have been generously donated from top boutiques in the Village, and guests are able to bid on these clothes at the event. This is the only fashion show in town that depends exclusively on donated clothing!

What are some ways people in North Texas can get involved with The Salvation Army?

The Salvation Army of North Texas’ footprint spans 4,078 square miles, covering Collin, Dallas, Denton, Ellis, Rockwall, and Tarrant Counties. Those interested in directly supporting their neighbors in need can visit SalvationArmyNorthTexas.org to explore volunteer opportunities in their area or find their closest Corps Community Center to support. All donations made locally stay local in the community they were given. For women in Dallas looking to find their passion through various projects throughout the year, I highly recommend the Dallas Women’s Auxiliary, a fundraising and volunteer service group comprised of compassionate individuals dedicated to serving others in any capacity they can.

Where would we most likely find you in Highland Park Village?

Our family will make any occasion an opportunity to celebrate at Café Pacific! You can also find me frequently enjoying lunch with friends on the patio at Bistro 31. When it comes to shopping, I adore everything at Veronica Beard and Lela Rose, and I visit the Carolina Herrera boutique for special occasions. All the stores are special and unique – we love coming to the Village to shop or dine.

Highland Park Village is proud to spotlight our very own dynamic personalities and community partners in the Village Voices series. Get to know our past features.