The Legacy of Grace
Grace Dadzie is the wellbeing team leader for The Salvation Army Royal Oak Community Ministries/Central Auckland Service Hub, but after more than 24 years of dedicated service, Grace will be retiring in December.
‘Grace’s journey has been one woven with compassion, faith and an unwavering commitment to the people of our community,’ explains Community Ministries Manager Ofa Tuitupou. ‘Grace leaves behind a legacy not measured just in years, but in lives touched, families supported, colleagues uplifted and faith lived out boldly. She has given much more than her time—she has given her heart. We thank Grace for her courage, faith and unwavering compassion. Royal Oak will forever carry the imprint of her service.’
Grace’s association with The Salvation Army began as a volunteer at the Royal Oak Family Store.
‘She began quietly, humbly, and—fittingly—with service,’ says Ofa. ‘She simply wanted to help where she could. Her natural warmth and ability to make others feel seen quickly became evident, and before long she transitioned to Royal Oak Community Ministries, beginning her role as a welfare worker, which later grew into a leadership role.’
Grace played a key part in shaping the supportive culture that undergirds Tea and Talanoa—an open and welcoming space for the local community to gather, tell stories, sing, laugh, share devotions, pray and simply feel heard.
‘A familiar refrain in the centre became, “Is Grace here today,”’ says Ofa. ‘Nearly every person who has walked through our doors has asked for her, because they knew she would listen, care and help.’
Ofa outlines the nature and extent of Grace’s exceptional service.
‘She became an anchor within our wellbeing department. Grace oversaw the foodbank operations, supported whānau through difficult seasons, and guided her team with quiet strength and genuine care. There were also many times when Grace stepped outside her comfort zone, taking on new responsibilities, managing increased workloads, and holding the team together with grace and determination.’
Grace faced many challenges, and Ofa relays a particularly rough period when the foodbank shelves were nearly bare.
‘Grace and her colleague Ramona walked into the foodbank, closed the door behind them and began to pray over the shelves and the families who would come seeking help and the future provision of kai (food). Not long after kai began pouring in—donations, support and blessings arriving in ways that could only be described as extraordinary! A defining moment that testifies to their deep faith and trust in God’s provision.’
Anita Dadzie, Grace’s daughter, works alongside her mother at Royal Oak, as the centre administrator. ‘Staff remember Anita toddling around the centre as a baby,’ explains Community Ministries National Programme Manager Chris Limmer, who says that Grace’s influence and example have seen several other family members also offer their service The Salvation Army.
‘Grace has been so loyal to The Salvation Army and the people of the Royal Oak community. It’s her very strong faith that drives her. Grace is very humble and doesn’t want a big farewell, but an article seems a very appropriate way to honour her,’ says Chris
The team at Royal Oak wish their beloved Grace well for as she steps into a well-earned retirement.
