(Above) Colourful posters, banners and photos—demonstrated here by Lt-Col Brenda Murray, director of international development—illustrate how local partnerships contribute to global progress; (inset) Comr Rosalie Peddle takes part in an international photo booth highlighting the reach of The Salvation Army

Each February, Canadians come together to celebrate International Development Week—a time to reflect on our shared responsibility to create a world that is more just, compassionate and sustainable.

The week highlights Canada’s role in advancing global development and, in 2025, invited Canadians to unite under the inspiring theme, “Building a Better World Together,” rooted in the vision of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

For The Salvation Army’s Canada and Bermuda Territory, International Development Week is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a celebration of connection, compassion and shared purpose. 

Building a Better World Together

From February 1-7, 2025, the international development department brought this spirit to life through a vibrant and immersive open house, transforming their space at The Salvation Army’s territorial headquarters in Toronto into a lively, global showcase brimming with stories, laughter and hope. 

Following morning chapel, staff were invited to visit the international development department to explore the heart of the Army’s global work. Guests were first greeted by a display entitled “Smiles Across Borders”—a joyful collection of portraits featuring individuals and families from around the world whose lives have been impacted by Salvation Army programs.

Each smile told a story of resilience, transformation and faith. The display reminded visitors that international development is not only about infrastructure or aid—it’s about people and their stories of hope. International projects bring education, opportunity and brighter futures to communities around the world.

The space was a perfect reflection of what it means to build a better world together. 

A Perfect Blend

As guests explored further, they were immersed in a global journey that stretched across Africa, the Americas, South Asia, the South Pacific, East Asia and Europe—regions where The Salvation Army partners with communities to bring hope and transformation.

The experience began with an “Around the World Gallery”—a vibrant display featuring artifacts, textiles, handcrafted items, musical instruments and keepsakes collected by the international development team during their travels. This gallery celebrated the beauty and diversity of the countries where The Salvation Army serves, offering visitors a tangible connection to the people and cultures behind each story.

Beyond the gallery, guests visited a series of interactive stations, each one highlighting a different project and its connection to a specific Sustainable Development Goal. Colourful posters, banners and photos showcased initiatives, such as livelihood programs, clean-water systems, education opportunities and women’s empowerment projects—all demonstrating how local partnerships contribute to global progress.

To make the experience even more engaging, the team added games, trivia challenges and hands-on activities at each station. Staff tested their knowledge of international development, shared stories and enjoyed refreshments inspired by various regions of the world. 

It was a perfect blend of education and celebration. 

One at a Time 

Throughout the open house, displays illustrated how initiatives such as Gifts of Hope and Brighter Futures provide livestock and tools for families to sustain livelihoods, while education and health projects open doors to opportunity and well-being.

Each example reflected the essence of the 2025 International Development Week theme—that building a better world requires partnership and collective effort. It’s in these moments of shared purpose that The Salvation Army’s mission comes alive: to share hope, transform lives and serve others without discrimination. 

As we once again mark International Development Week (February 1–7, 2026), the new theme—Prosperity through Partnership—contributes to the spirit of Building a Better World Together.

Through ongoing projects, partnerships and creative engagement, the team remains committed to raising awareness of global issues and empowering others to take part in meaningful change. 

Last year’s celebration served as a powerful reminder that change begins with connection— one smile, one story, one shared act of kindness at a time. The work of building a better world doesn’t end with one week—it continues every day, in every act of love and service that reaches across borders. 

Kyle Mangio is the resource and media co-ordinator in the international development department.