News Summary
The Salvation Army of the Coastal Empire marks 125 years of service in Savannah while introducing new leadership under Chris Doborwicz. A focus on recalibrating services aims to address community needs, including affordable housing and transitional support. Plans for a new Center of Hope signify the organization’s commitment to enhancing service delivery amidst rising demand. As it transitions under the new leadership, the Salvation Army remains dedicated to its mission of support and compassion.
Savannah, GA – The Salvation Army of the Coastal Empire is celebrating 125 years of service to the Savannah community while also introducing new leadership and upcoming changes to its service approach. Chris Doborwicz, appointed as the new commanding officer about a month ago, is assessing the organization’s current needs and focusing on recalibrating its services to better meet those needs.
Doborwicz has identified the necessity for recalibration within the organization due to limited resources and staffing capabilities, aiming to address growing demands in the community. The Salvation Army operates a 24-hour, 120-bed shelter that provides assistance to various populations in need. Their support services encompass a wide range of programs, including community outreach, thrift stores, case management, and meal provision.
Having previously held leadership roles in Florida and Oklahoma City since 2016, Doborwicz brings 13 years of experience within the organization. His decision to lead in Savannah comes with a personal touch, as he has vacationed in the area and even named a child after theologian John Wesley. He appreciates the community’s welcoming demeanor and its eagerness to work together for positive change, noting these attributes as essential for effective collaboration in service enhancements.
As part of his strategy, Doborwicz is currently evaluating the specific needs of the Savannah community to identify critical areas requiring immediate focus. He points to several gaps in service, including those concerning families, transitional housing, affordable housing, and shelters for individuals with complex needs. Understanding these issues is vital for the Salvation Army’s ability to adapt its offerings and ensure that it meets the rising demand for support.
To further its mission, the organization plans to construct a new Center of Hope, which will replace the existing facilities on Montgomery Street. This new development is aimed at improving the overall service delivery and expanding the capacity to handle requests for assistance. The Salvation Army is currently experiencing a significant demand for its services alongside limited capacity, emphasizing the urgency for community support.
The Salvation Army is a faith-based organization committed to preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ while meeting human needs without discrimination. Its long-standing presence in Savannah has made it a cornerstone organization for those seeking assistance, and as it celebrates this milestone, it stands poised for transformation under its new leadership.
In summary, as the Salvation Army of the Coastal Empire moves forward with Chris Doborwicz at the helm, the organization is focused on recalibrating its services to effectively address the specific needs of the Savannah community while maintaining its mission of support and compassion.
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Additional Resources
- Savannah Now: New Commanding Officer of Salvation Army
- Wikipedia: Salvation Army
- WSAV: Salvation Army of Savannah Introduces New Officers
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Salvation Army
- Ocala Gazette: New Leadership for Salvation Army
- Google News: Salvation Army Savannah

Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER
SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.