What to Expect

Thank you for volunteering as a Red Kettle Bell Ringer! Please review the information below so you know what to expect during your shift.

General Information

  • Kettle Pickups: Salvation Army drivers may arrive up to 15 minutes before or after the listed end time due to traffic.

  • Weather & Attire: Dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. Festive clothing is encouraged! You may also bring a small Bluetooth speaker to play Christmas music only.

  • Questions or Concerns: If you have any issues during your shift, please reach out to the contact person for your location.

For All Stores Except Hobby Lobby

  • A staff member from The Salvation Army will contact you the week of your scheduled shift.

  • Upon arrival, check in at the Customer Service counter to pick up your kettle and supplies.

Morning Shifts:

  • At the end of your shift, return your kettle to Customer Service unless another member of your volunteer group is scheduled to relieve you. In that case, you may leave the kettle with them.

Afternoon Shifts:

  • There may already be a Bell Ringer on-site when you arrive. Do not use their kettle. Each individual or group has their own assigned kettle unless rotating within the same volunteer group.

  • If your kettle fills up, reach out to your site’s contact person so an extra one can be provided.

Evening Shifts:

  • A Salvation Army driver will collect kettles after evening shifts. If the driver has not arrived within 15 minutes after your end time and you need to leave, please return the kettle to Customer Service.

For Hobby Lobby Locations

  • A staff member from The Salvation Army will contact you the week of your scheduled shift.

Morning Shifts:

  • A Salvation Army driver will deliver your kettle and supplies at the start of your shift. The driver may arrive up to 15 minutes after the scheduled start time.

  • If the driver has not arrived within 15 minutes, please reach out to the contact person for your location.

Afternoon Shifts:

  • Your supplies will be provided either by the driver or by the Bell Ringer from the earlier shift.

  • Please use your assigned kettle only unless you are part of a volunteer group, in which case you may continue using the same kettle.

  • If your kettle fills up, please reach out to the contact person for your location for an additional one.

Evening Shifts:

  • A Salvation Army driver will pick up kettles at the end of the day. The driver may arrive 15 minutes before or after the scheduled end time.

  • If you are rotating with another volunteer from your group, you may leave the kettle with them.

Thank you for representing The Salvation Army and helping spread hope this Christmas season. Your time and kindness make a lasting difference. God bless you!