Volunteer spotlight: Greg Towne and Jane Nelson
The Salvation Army Northern Division is proud to celebrate our volunteers during National Volunteer Week 2025. Check our Facebook page and news feed April 21-25 to read stories about the incredible people who donate their time to help The Salvation Army in Minnesota and North Dakota. Find volunteer opportunities near you.
Today we shine the spotlight on Greg Towne and Jane Nelson – two outstanding volunteers who have given untold hours of time helping The Salvation Army and the people we serve.
We thank Greg and Jane for supporting The Salvation Army’s mission of providing food, shelter and care for all who come to us in need.
Greg Towne
For the past three years, Greg Towne has used his skills as a Master Gardener to transform gardens and enrich the lives of those living at The Salvation Army HOPE Harbor residence – a 96-unit supportive housing facility in downtown Minneapolis.
A retired engineer and devoted family man, Greg first began volunteering at HOPE Harbor in 2022, playing a crucial role in creating raised garden beds. In addition to bringing his own equipment, he worked alongside staff and residents in pouring cement, hauling dirt and mulch, and planting to bring his vision to life.
Since then, Greg has continued to offer his expertise every summer, providing detailed plant-care advice and visiting twice a month to ensure the gardens thrive – all while facing his own health challenges.
Greg’s kindness, patience, and unwavering dedication have expanded to Salvation Army Booth Brown House – a youth shelter and housing facility in St. Paul – where he is now working to revive the garden space.
Greg’s commitment to service is truly inspiring, and his presence is a blessing to everyone around him.
Jane Nelson
Jane Nelson has been a pillar of dedication and service at The Salvation Army in Maplewood, Minn., for more than 20 years.
As a volunteer food shelf shopper, she has gone above and beyond to ensure every guest is treated with care and dignity. She is always ready to help, even stepping in to organize food deliveries despite her physical challenges.
Jane’s commitment to The Salvation Army extends beyond the food shelf. She is a devoted member of The Salvation Army church, and she has spent time serving on the Maplewood Salvation Army advisory council.
Jane’s deep involvement with the Maplewood Salvation Army reflects her unwavering faith and passion for serving others. Her kindness, perseverance, and servant’s heart make her an invaluable part of The Salvation Army.
Please join The Salvation Army's mission of serving others by giving a donation or signing up to volunteer.