Because this year’s donation period is only four weeks and the location list is shorter than usual, the Salvation Army is asking the public to give generously and to volunteer time.
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“We will see our kettles at a lot less places than in years past; the mall used to be a big one for us. That week that we are going to be missing this year will probably equate to about a $20,000 loss,” said Ryan Ray, Development Director for the Springfield Salvation Army.” We are asking everyone that passes a Red Kettle to understand and believe in what we do, and not see a Red Kettle as something annoying but rather as a means to help get aid to the people that need it most in this community,” Ray said.
The need for volunteers goes through Christmas Eve. Volunteers are much preferred to paid attendants who cut into donated funds, and tending the kettle allows the opportunity for group promotion. Ray said that he often has organizations or businesses that volunteer at a kettle for a day, taking shifts. This way, they can wear shirts or hats that represent their company or organization. He also has individuals that take shifts from two to up to eight hours.
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The Salvation Army is also having a “Kids Day at the Kettle” on Dec. 22 where families can sign up with their children to volunteer at a kettle. Children love to ring the bells and are often very good with the public, Ray said.
Another event this holiday season is “20 on 20” which has gained popularity at many Salvation Army organizations around the U.S. but will be making its debut here. Called “20 on 20,” the idea is to collect $20 bills on Dec. 20. Many cities have been quite successful at this venture.
For information or to volunteer, for the Red Kettle Campaign or for other Salvation Army activities, visit swo.salvationarmy.org/springfield-oh.
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