Gemale A. Black

Your Rowan Favorites

Place to Eat: Los Arcos Mexican Restaurant
Outdoor Activity: Newman Park
Event or Festival: Cheerwine Festival

Mike Anderson

Salvation Army
Native of Charlotte, NC

Industry: Non-Profit

Mike Anderson grew up in the Charlotte, NC area and has worked for the Salvation Army for over 20 years. Recently, he stepped into the role of Corps Administrator for Rowan County which included a relocation to our area. A self-described compassionate, dependable and inspirational individual who likes to be mission focused, he can fulfill a deeper calling through his work with the Salvation Army.

Not only he is serving as the Corps Administrator, but Anderson is also a pastor in the Salvation Army Corps. In the few short months he has lived here, he has already seen a true community spirit that he treasures: “neighbors supporting neighbors, a deep sense of camaraderie, and a natural willingness to serve and care for one another.” Although he has not lived here for long, he already enjoys visiting local establishments like Los Arcos Restaurant and Newman Park and you will probably see him at the next Cheerwine Festival in downtown Salisbury.

His work keeps him fully engaged with the surrounding community, but Anderson actively tries to get out there and connect in other ways. He is a member of the Rotary Club and he loves attending local sporting events at Catawba College, Livingstone College, as well as local high schools. “Beyond that, the spiritual life of our community is very important to me. I cherish opportunities to connect with people through faith-based programs, worship gatherings, and outreach that lifts both hearts and lives. All these experiences—community, sports, and spiritual engagement—allow me to celebrate the talent, camaraderie, and deep sense of care that make Rowan County truly special.”

To be an original in Rowan County means “showing up as yourself and fully participating in the life of the community…being an original is about contributing your own energy, passion, and perspective, and helping to make Rowan County an even stronger, more connected place for everyone.” Rowan County is special to Anderson because of the “incredible sense of community and support that exists here. The people genuinely care for one another, whether it’s through volunteering, showing up at local events, or simply lending a hand to a neighbor in need. That spirit of camaraderie, service, and love for each other is what makes living and working here so special.”

Your Rowan Favorites

Place to Eat: Los Arcos Mexican Restaurant
Outdoor Activity: Newman Park
Event or Festival: Cheerwine Festival