A New And Improved Information Gateway For Donors, Volunteers And Needy Families - Western PA Salvation Army Website Relaunched

CARNEGIE, Pa., May 1, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- For most organizations, their website is a virtual front door. If guests enter and become lost or frustrated, many will make an abrupt exit and not return. Because thousands of families' lives depend on the services of The Salvation Army's Western Pennsylvania Division, it is critical that this electronic gateway is user-friendly to volunteers, donors, and especially those in need.

In existence for nearly 20 years, The Salvation Army's Western Pennsylvania Division's website has undergone a major overhaul. A more streamlined design, a host of social media links, including links to Pinterest boards, and expanded information for volunteers, donors and clients are now easily accessible. Also added is a blog that provides constant news updates about social services, upcoming community events and stories about lives changed by The Salvation Army. "We felt that the time for this change has come," said Fran Brace, The Salvation Army's Western Pennsylvania Division's Director of Development. "Our constituents want instant information at their fingertips and we are dedicated to provide exactly that. And, because the web diminishes our need for massive amounts of printing, we can retain more funds for direct client assistance."

The Salvation Army's Western Pennsylvania Division's website has developed into a key link for those who are seeking volunteer opportunities. www.salvationarmy-wpa.org is also a comprehensive resource for government and other referring agencies to better serve those seeking assistance. And, more donors than ever are demanding a convenient and efficient way to give in the privacy of their own home. Brace explained, "Back in 2004, when we started tracking Internet Christmas giving, we generated $17,000. Last year, we brought in more than $120,000. The numbers speak volumes."

The latest fundraising campaign to be featured on The Salvation Army's Western Pennsylvania Division's website is its Red Shield Campaign and its New Face of Need workplace giving arm. In fiscal 2010, more than 3,155 additional individuals in crisis have turned to the organization desperately in need of a host of human services. These human service campaigns provide financial support to three vital Salvation Army programs: the Family Caring Center, Comprehensive Social Services, and Emergency Disaster Services. The new initiative, the New Face of Need Workplace Giving Campaign allows employees to support The Salvation Army of Allegheny County and in turn encourages their employers to match their generosity.

To get better acquainted with The Salvation Army's Western Pennsylvania Division, you are invited to be our welcomed guest at www.salvationarmy-wpa.org. Both a church and a social service organization, The Salvation Army began in London, England in 1865. Today, it provides critical services in 124 countries worldwide. The 28-county Western Pennsylvania Division serves thousands of needy families through a wide variety of support services. The Salvation Army … Doing the most good . . . for the most people . . . in the most need.

SOURCE Salvation Army Western Pennsylvania Division