McElroys named Salvation Army commanders
- Majors Bret and Susan McElroy are serving as commanders for The Salvation Army of Greater Huntsville. CONTRIBUTED
HUNTSVILLE – The Salvation Army has appointed Majors Bret and Susan McElroy as commanders for The Salvation Army of Greater Huntsville.
The McElroys will oversee Salvation Army services and operations, including CSRC, a rehabilitation program for men addicted to drugs and alcohol; emergency shelter; community kitchen; and two family stores.
A native of Chouteau, Okla., Bret McElroy earned a bachelor’s degree in Biblical Studies from Trinity College of the Bible. A native of Brooklyn, N.Y., Susan McElroy received a bachelor’s degree at Asbury University and a master’s degree from Georgia State University.
Bret and Susan McElroy have served as corps officers and pastors at Salvation Army appointments in Petersburg, Va.; Lawrenceville, Ga.; and Spartanburg and Conway, S.C. They supervised shelters, Boys and Girls Clubs and thrift stores.
In other appointments, Lydia Pennington has been promoted to the Director of Development. “For the last five years, I have had the privilege of working alongside thousands of volunteers and community members who so faithfully serve and support those among us that need an extra hand,” Pennington said.
“It’s inspiring to partner with an organization that touches lives and continues to make a difference,” Pennington said. “I’ve had the chance to meet so many people who share that they found hope through The Salvation Army.”
Pamela Donald now fills Pennington’s former job as Community Relations Coordinator for Salvation Army. To contact Donald, call 256-536-5576, ext. 14 or email pamela.donald@uss.salvationarmy.org.
In April 2016, The Salvation Army in Huntsville served 6,106 meals at their community kitchen, compared to 5,635 meals in April 2015. Also in April, 1,168 individuals lodged in their shelter, compared to 891 in April 2015.
“As the needs grow, so does our need for financial assistance. It is my responsibility to find new means to support this increasing need within our community,” Pennington said.
To contact Pennington, call 256-536-5576, ext. 15, email lydia.pennington@uss.salvationarmy.org or visit SalvationArmyHunstville.org.
