The Salvation Army – Benton Harbor, MI Corps to Celebrate 100th Year Anniversary!

Media Contact:

Lt. Mario Bledsoe

Pastor and Corps Officer

mario.bledsoe@usc.salvationarmy.org

Phone: 269-927-1353

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 24th, 2025



BENTON HARBOR, MI — The Salvation Army of Benton Harbor, serving West Berrien and Van Buren Counties, will celebrate its 100th anniversary on Friday, August 29th.

In honor of this centennial milestone, a gala with a roaring 1920s theme is planned at The Black River Barn in South Haven.

“West Berrien and Van Buren Counties are on the brink of a momentous celebration as we mark a milestone of 100 years dedicated to pouring hope and encouragement into our community. Fueled by love and the guiding strength of the Holy Spirit, we have received and given support to individuals and families over the last century. This remarkable journey of service is not just a look back at what has been done, but a strong commitment to the future. We eagerly anticipate continuing our mission in the years ahead, meeting human needs without discrimination, and embodying the love of Christ in everything we do. As we celebrate this grand occasion, we invite everyone to join us in reflecting on the profound impact we have made together, and to look forward with enthusiasm and determination towards the next century of compassionate service,” said Lt. Mario Bledsoe, Corps Officer of The Salvation Army – Benton Harbor Corps. 

The celebration will begin at 6 p.m. at Black River Barn, 07737 73rd St, South Haven, MI 49090. There will be a Roaring 1920s themed gala with great food and live music. We’re thrilled to announce that the evening’s keynote speaker will be the remarkable Eleanor Reece, Vice President of Global Communications and Corporate Communications at Whirlpool. But that’s not all! We’re also excited to welcome back the talented Joshua Short, the Emmy Award-winning news anchor from WNDU, who will be our Master of Ceremonies for this special occasion. We're grateful for our sponsors, Benton Harbor-Fairplain Lions Club and Whirlpool!

To attend the celebration and get tickets, please go to Cheers to 100 years Benton Harbor - Campaign or go to our website at sabentonharbor.org, use the drop down menu, then click on events. 

MEDIA NOTE: If you plan to attend, please let us know in advance or purchase tickets at Cheers to 100 years Benton Harbor - Campaign.

Full Invitation Graphic Here.

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About The Salvation Army:

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

The Salvation Army, an evangelical part of the universal Christian church, has been supporting those in need in His name without discrimination since 1865. Nearly 33 million Americans receive assistance from The Salvation Army each year through the broadest array of social services that range from providing food for the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled, outreach to the elderly and ill, clothing and shelter to the homeless and opportunities for underprivileged children. Locally, 87 cents of every dollar raised is used to support programs and services.

About the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber: The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber is a non-profit business advocacy and collective-impact organization serving Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren Counties. Established in 1954, the Chamber works to strengthen regional assets, advocate for regional priorities, and cultivate an economic ecosystem that prepares the region for future opportunities.

Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber

811 Ship St., Ste. 303, St. Joseph MI 49085 269-932-4042 | info@smrchamber.com | www.smrchamber.com

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