On this episode of Along the Rock, brought to you by the Radar Free Press, host Kierstyn Long welcomes Lieutenant Jessica Tosh of the Salvation Army to discuss the organization’s upcoming holiday programs and the many ways community members can get involved.
Red Kettles Return to the Community
The familiar sound of ringing bells will soon return as the Salvation Army launches its annual Red Kettle campaign. Bell ringing is scheduled to begin the first Monday in November at Hobby Lobby, with additional locations opening throughout the month. By Thanksgiving, kettles and bell ringers will be stationed throughout the community.
The money raised through the Red Kettle campaign stays right here in Whiteside County. Donations support the Salvation Army’s assistance programs throughout the year, helping residents who need financial assistance with utility bills, rent, and other essential expenses.
Those interested in volunteering as bell ringers can sign up through the Salvation Army’s new website, ringforgood.org. The website serves Salvation Army locations nationwide, making it easy for volunteers to find opportunities and reserve a time to ring bells in their communities. Returning volunteers will need to create a new account through the updated website.
Red Kettle Kickoff Concert Set for November 14
To celebrate the beginning of the holiday giving season, the Salvation Army is hosting a Red Kettle Kickoff Concert on Saturday, November 14th at 3 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church.
The concert has been nearly a year in the making and will feature several talented local performers, including Marty Huffetler, a voice instructor at Woodland, the Sterling High School Magical Singers and Strings, and the Rock River Valley Barbershop Chorus.
The Salvation Army’s own Joyful Noise youth program will also take the stage, allowing young participants to showcase the musical skills they have been developing.
Joyful Noise Gives Local Children a Creative Outlet
The Joyful Noise program was created to give children a fun and engaging place to spend time after school while exploring music, creativity, and faith.
Rather than simply offering another opportunity for schoolwork, the Salvation Army wanted to create something children would genuinely enjoy. Music became the foundation of the program, which now includes several creative electives.
A music instructor travels from DeKalb once a week to work with the children. Participants have been learning band instruments and will perform Jingle Bells at the Red Kettle Kickoff Concert. They are also learning a routine called templet, which combines dance movements with tambourine playing. The children will perform two songs as well.
Additional activities include ukulele, steel pan drums, and drama, giving participants opportunities to explore different interests and discover new talents.
Joyful Noise is open to children in kindergarten and older. Participants receive dinner when they arrive, followed by a Bible lesson, their chosen electives, and group singing time.
Families interested in learning more or registering their children can visit the Salvation Army’s Facebook page or call the local office at 815-625-1622.
Angel Tree Program Helps Make Christmas Special
Another important part of the Salvation Army’s holiday outreach is its annual Angel Tree program, which provides Christmas gifts for children ages 12 and under.
Parents can apply online at saangeltree.org. Once registered, children are placed on Angel Trees throughout the community, where individuals and families can select an angel and shop for gifts.
Angel Trees will be available at several local locations, including Walmart, Culver’s, Woodland, and Midland States Bank.
Community members who would rather contribute in another way can also participate by donating toys, organizing a toy drive, or making a monetary donation. These contributions help ensure that every child registered through the program receives Christmas gifts, even if their individual angel is not selected from a tree.
The program provides an opportunity for community members to make the holidays brighter for local families who may otherwise struggle to provide Christmas gifts for their children.
For Tosh, the Angel Tree program is especially meaningful because it gives people the opportunity to shop for a child they may never meet and help create a joyful holiday experience. Every child deserves the opportunity to experience the happiness and excitement of Christmas.
Get Involved This Holiday Season
From volunteering at a Red Kettle to attending the kickoff concert, supporting Joyful Noise or shopping for an Angel Tree child, the Salvation Army offers several opportunities for the community to make a difference this holiday season.
The organization’s work extends beyond the holidays, with Red Kettle donations helping fund assistance programs for residents throughout the year.
To learn more about upcoming programs, volunteer opportunities, and ways to give, visit the Salvation Army’s Facebook page, sign up to ring bells at ringforgood.org, or contact the local office at 815-625-1622.
The holiday season is a time for giving, and the Salvation Army is once again bringing the community together to make it a little brighter for everyone.
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