Manly Greats - Louanne Mitchell
Present-day “greats” include Manly Salvation Army officer, Captain Louanne Mitchell, who grew up on the northern beaches.
In 2014, she was awarded Local Woman of the Year in the 2014 NSW Women of the Year Awards.
NSW Premier and local member for Manly, The Hon. Mike Baird MP, awarded Captain Mitchell a certificate honouring her achievement.
Captain Mitchell is co-corps officer at The Salvation Army’s Manly New Life Community Centre and the award recognises her outstanding contribution to the local area.
Her citation recognises her 24-year contribution to The Salvation Army and her community work and compassion in helping the most vulnerable and disadvantaged.
“Louanne’s value to the community is immeasurable,” said Mr Baird in his nomination.
“Her love for the unlovable is evident and so many families, single parents, homeless, disabled and mentally ill within our community have been touched by her compassion.”
Captain Mitchell says she is honoured to receive the award, but notes she is simply part of a supportive team and wider community.
“The ministry is a team effort and we give glory to God for all He does,” says Captain Mitchell.
“We have dedicated and generous local volunteers and Mike Baird has also been incredibly supportive to the local Salvation Army. It is very much a community-based, community-supported ministry.
“God has blessed me abundantly and I want to be able to bless others and to serve the least, the lost and the last.
“Through the ministry of the Salvation Army Manly, we strive to love, care and serve those who are on the margins of our society, especially those who feel they may not belong anywhere else.
“We provide breakfast and lunch, four days a week. We also have a shower facility for those who are sleeping rough and offer financial and emotional support for those who are doing it tough at the moment. On Sundays we gather for worship and once a month we have our FEAST – Friends Eating at Salvos Together.
“Manly Salvos is a place where people feel that they can belong and experience God's love by being part of our community.”
