In the harrowing days before a storm named Irma sent her sustained 100 mph hurricane force winds through town on September 11, the Volunteer Minister Center on Fort Harrison Avenue became a beehive in hyper-drive, exploding into action and activity. But the VM Center is active every day, not just for disasters.
“Something can be done about it.” Those words encapsulate the mission of the Scientology Volunteer Ministers, dedicated to helping whenever and wherever they can—and wielding a variety of skills and tools to effectively accomplish that help. Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard started the Volunteer Minister program in the mid-1970s to bring help in the form of practical Scientology tools to anyone, anywhere in time of need. Internationally, the Volunteer Ministers have gained renown for their service in disaster relief, and partnering with hundreds of groups and organizations including the Red Cross.
Visiting the VM Center on an off-disaster day one can study or watch films on one of the 19 Volunteer Minister courses, either in the center or online, providing practical solutions for such subjects from difficulties in the workplace to improving relationships. Each course imparts tools for life that individuals can use to help themselves and others. They are complimentary and open to anyone.
The center also offers weekly training on “assists.” These easily learned techniques are designed to help relieve mental, physical or spiritual trauma; hundreds of people in Pinellas County have learned to use assists to help their friends and neighbors.
Volunteer Ministers have gained renown for their service in disaster relief, and partnering with hundreds of groups and organizations including the Red Cross.
From hosting interfaith meetings, presenting first aid and CPR training seminars, and organizing neighborhood cleanups, their impact can be felt throughout Tampa Bay.
Scientology ecclesiastical leader, David Miscavige, opened the center to the residents of Tampa Bay area over two years ago, stating, “We do not discriminate. We do not judge. All we care to do is help. And, as demonstrated time and again, we deliver that help anywhere and everywhere. So, yes, that’s our new headquarters for Volunteer Ministers right here in the heart of Clearwater, for the benefit of anyone and everyone.”
