The Salvation Army Welcomes New Kittanning Officers
PITTSBURGH (September 26, 2022) – The Salvation Army Western Pennsylvania Division is proud to welcome Lieutenants Austin and Yolimar Oberg to The Salvation Army Kittanning Worship and Service Center. The new appointment was part of national and divisional officer reassignments made in the summer of 2022. This is their first assignment since completing officer training school. The move is a homecoming for the married team, who first met at a young age at The Salvation Army’s Camp Allegheny. The Obergs say they are thrilled to truly become part of the community and expand existing ministries at the Corps.
“Everyone has been so welcoming,” Lt. Austin Oberg, a native of nearby Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania said. “It’s so easy to get excited about this new role, and we already feel such a connection to our new community.”
The Lieutenants are parents and have a heart for youth ministries. They moved to Kittanning with their daughter Elena, 2, and son Michael, 7, and they are expecting a little one in the new year.
“It’s important to plant the seed early and help the next generation grow,” Lt. Yolimar Oberg said. “We really want to focus on the youth program and make sure this is a place where families feel welcome. We are working to grow the existing kid’s club and looking to expand teen programs and activities.”
The Salvation Army is truly a family for Lt. Yolimar. Her parents are officers and have served in many different ministry locations over the years, including serving in Indiana, Pennsylvania, as well as Puerto Rico. The Obergs have already made connections in the community at various festivals, high school sporting events and even the local YMCA.
“I enjoy meeting new people and I think it’s an important part of growing partnerships,” Lt. Austin said. “I certainly have the ‘gift of gab’ and look forward to any opportunity I have to invite people to learn more about our ministry.”
The Obergs are grateful for their existing team and love bringing their new ideas to life. They say it is important for us all to come together, particularly after the last couple years of isolation.
“When people look at the red shield for The Salvation Army, they may already have an idea about some of our social services programs,” Lt. Yolimar said. “We want people to know this building is loving and welcoming and is also a place of worship.”
“We want everyone to know if you come in here, you’re safe,” Lt. Austin said. “No matter the situation, we can be there for you.”
Visit salvationarmywpa.org to view the existing schedule of weekly offerings, which includes programs for toddlers, as well as men’s and women’s ministries. Be sure to visit the Kittanning Salvation Army Facebook page to stay updated on the latest events happening on site. The Corps is also looking for program volunteers and advisory board members. Call 724-543-6622 for more information.
Celebrating over 150 years of global service as both a church and a social service organization, The Salvation Army began in London, England in 1865. Today, it provides critical services in 132 countries worldwide. The 28-county Western Pennsylvania Division serves thousands of needy families through a wide variety of support services. To learn more about The Salvation Army in Western Pennsylvania, visit wpa.salvationarmy.org. The Salvation Army … doing the most good for the most people in the most need.
Contact:
Nicole Harrell, Director of Marketing and Public Relations
The Salvation Army Western Pennsylvania Division
Email | Office: (412) 446-1642