How Jean Westberg Took a Chance and Never Looked Back

Jean Westberg didn't know much about The Salvation Army when she joined our Twin Cities Advisory Board in 1992.

At the time, she worked as a manager for Northern States Power (now Xcel Energy). The company's Vice President, Hazel O'Leary - who later became U.S. Secretary of Energy under President Bill Clinton - was offered a seat on the Advisory Board but politely declined.

Jean was next in line. She accepted the role and - 32 years later - has never looked back.

"I've stayed on the board because I think The Salvation Army is a wonderful organization serving those in need and providing a helping hand," said Jean, now retired, who lives in South Minneapolis with her husband, John. "The staff is authentic, caring, hard-working, and does so much good in our community."

Throughout the years, Jean has twice served as Board Chair. Currently, she serves on the board's Development Committee, recruiting other local leaders who are passionate about improving the lives of local people served by The Salvation Army.

"I am honored to serve on the Advisory Board and strive to be of assistance," she said.

Jean and John also support The Salvation Army financially; they have added The Salvation Army as a beneficiary to their Donor Advised Fund when God calls them home.

"We feel strongly that the good work done by The Salvation Army needs to continue into the future after we are gone," Jean said.

To learn more about including The Salvation Army in your will or trust, or adding The Salvation Army as a beneficiary to your Donor Advised Fund, please call Tom Cierzan, Senior Director of Gift and Estate Planning, at 651-746-3515