Kettle collections: Volunteers needed for Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign

The holidays bring the season of giving and with the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign, giving is made simple. When you spot the red bucket and a familiar smile behind the toll of a bell, you know where to throw your spare change as 85% of all funds collected stay right here in Webster County.

“I see daily with the people I work with how much the help they need. I'm working with OACAC and other organizations, where you see a lot more of a need… not just the seniors,” explained Marshfield campaign lead Chris Parker, of SeniorLiving.

Parker has been involved with the Red Kettle Campaign in Webster County since 2008 and became the chairwoman four years ago.

“This is the one fundraiser we do a year – everything we collect between Thanksgiving and Christmas – All that money is put to us helping people right here in Webster County,” she said. “And we need help. We’d love for more people to be a part of this opportunity to give back.”

The campaign has raised over $20,000 each year since COVID, which directly impacts various non-profit organizations in the county. According to Parker, this is the first year that Webster County’s kettle funds have completely run out, so the need is greater than ever.

“We are in need of quite a few volunteers to help out,” she added. “It’s just one hour and it’s so much fun. You see so many people you know and everybody knows that Red Kettle, so you don’t even have to ask for money. You just stand there and smile at people while they donate because they know that kettle, and they know the Salvation Army’s reputation for helping people in the community. We’re all volunteered. We don’t pay people to do this and none of the board gets paid… We’re just volunteers and we love doing it because we love helping people. It’s just that season… It’s the season of giving back.”

Those interested in volunteering for an hour or more can contact one of the campaign coordinators to schedule. Marshfield volunteers can contact Chris Parker at the Senior Center at 417-859-3555 or on her cell phone at 417-224-3959. Seymour volunteers can contact coordinator Abby Ruiz at 417-840-1633 and Fordland volunteers can call Laura Hampton at 417-767-2829.