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Ring the Bell: Frequently Asked Questions Image

Ring the Bell: Frequently Asked Questions

Learn how you can help spread holiday cheer and support our mission to provide for those in need.

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Curious about becoming a volunteer bell ringer for The Salvation Army's iconic Red Kettle Campaign? Find answers to all your questions here! Learn how you can help spread holiday cheer and support our mission to provide for those in need. Whether you're wondering about time commitments, locations, or volunteer requirements, we've got you covered. Join us in making a difference this season!

Simply sign up for a date, time, and location that’s convenient for you. When you arrive, a kettle and bell will be at your location. If there is already a ringer there, just let them know you are the next scheduled volunteer and take over for them. Then, start ringing with a smile. Wish shoppers a “Merry Christmas” and thank people for their donations.

Donations support year-round programming in the Central Ohio area.

Kettles are designed to hold a large amount, even when they seem full. Often, paper money can take up more space than necessary, so gently pressing it down might create more room. However, if the kettle is genuinely full and beginning to overflow, please get in touch with the number provided on the back of the kettle. We will promptly bring you a replacement kettle to ensure your efforts can continue uninterrupted.

If the next ringer has arrived, give them the bell, apron, and badge. If no one has come to replace you or collect the equipment (last shift of the day), take the kettle to your location's customer service desk. Then, place the bell and kettle in the corner of the entryway or vestibule, and you may leave. Be sure to leave the apron and “Ringing for a Reason badge.” Volunteers are not responsible for “standing guard” over the kettle once their shift is finished.

If you cannot make your scheduled ringing time, please call the contact number listed in your confirmation email.

Unless it is otherwise noted, you will be standing outside, so dress appropriately! Each location will have an apron and a “Ringing for A Reason” badge for every volunteer to wear during their shift.

Bell-ringing is very rarely canceled, but if there is inclement weather and you are unsure, please call the contact numbers listed next to each location on your schedule.

As part of our agreements with the stores, we are not allowed to give out items or promotional materials at kettles. Only items pre-approved and supplied by The Salvation Army may be passed out at the kettle.

Start by checking with the customer service team at your location to see if the equipment has already been delivered and stored. If it’s not there, please keep in mind that our drivers often have multiple stops and may be delayed by a few minutes. If you’ve been waiting more than 10-15 minutes, don’t hesitate to call the contact numbers provided with the Red Kettle stand for assistance.

Yes, it does. If you want to schedule community service hours, indicate this in the notes or comments field when you select your shift. Fill out as much of your form ahead of time and contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Lori Banfield, at 614.437.2132 or email lori.banfield@use.salvationarmy.org. If you need additional documentation, please get in touch with Lori.

If you have an emergency while ringing, please call one of the numbers attached to the Red Kettle stand. If it is a life-threatening emergency, please dial 911.