Salvation Army of Aurora sets $250,000 goal this year
Celebrating 126 years, the traditional red kettles once again will be seen throughout communities across the United States through Dec. 23.
The Salvation Army's red kettles at Christmastime have been a symbol of hope to those in need in many communities. While the funds raised during the holiday season provide for Christmas assistance, they also support the organization's year-round programs for social and community services.
The Salvation Army of Aurora, serving southern Kane and Kendall counties, has set an ambitious goal of $250,000 this year.
Captain Rich Forney, corps officer for The Salvation Army, states, "We believe in the generosity of the community in donating to the red kettles and the volunteerism of individuals to help support our effort's this Christmas season. This year, we are already at a shortfall due to the shorter bellringing season and we could use the community's help."
The Salvation Army is looking for volunteer bellringers. Individuals, families, service clubs, churches and businesses are encouraged to signup online at www.registertoring.com.
The "Register to Ring" program allows prospective volunteers to go online and choose the locations, dates and times that they wish to volunteer to ring bells. The system will also generate automatic email confirmations and reminders. This is a great resource for school-required community service hours.
Other holiday volunteer and giving opportunities:
• Angel Tree: Last year, more than 3,500 children were provided toys and clothing through the Angel Tree Program. Volunteers adopt "Angels" or wish list items from registered children of low-income families, and purchase toys and other items listed on the tag. Companies are encouraged to set up a Christmas tree for customers to select an angel tag from, and after shopping for the child, the customer returns the unwrapped gifts to the company location.
The Salvation Army will coordinate with the company a pickup time between now and Dec. 15 of the unwrapped gifts or they can be dropped off at The Salvation Army, 1981 W. Galena Blvd. in Aurora, in the old Nicole's Hallmark Store.
For more information, contact Captain Linnea Forney at (630) 589-4001 or linnea_forney@usc.salvationarmy.org.
• Angel Tree Sorting: Volunteers will help sort and arrange toys, clothing, coats, books, and games for the Angel Tree families. Some heavy lifting required. Groups are encouraged to volunteer and special arrangement times can be made to fit scheduling of groups.
• Angel Tree Distribution: Volunteers assist with cross-checking of gift bags and help families to carry gift bags to vehicles. Volunteers are requested to be over age 18 for this project, or accompanied by a parent or guardian.
• Virtual Angel Tree: Create a company virtual Angel Tree at aurora.theangelgivingtree.org.
• Red Kettle Reason: What's your #RedKettleReason? Pick a cause and create a virtual red kettle to promote on social media at www.redkettlereason.org.
To volunteer or get details, contact Cynthia Lawrence at (630) 897-7265 or Cynthia_Lawrence@usc.salvationarmy.org.
The Salvation Army has served southern Kane and Kendall counties for over 130 years of dedicated service. The Aurora Corps provides basic human needs such as food and rent and utility assistance. The Aurora Corps is located at 437 E. Galena Blvd. in Aurora.