SOUTH BRUNSWICK: Bell ringers needed for kettle drive

by Sean Ruppert, Staff Writer
   It is the season for giving, and the local chapter of the Salvation Army is asking residents to give a little of their time to help those in need.
   The South Brunswick service unit of the international charity is seeking volunteers to watch the stations during its annual kettle drive, which begins Saturday. The fundraiser is a familiar sight for anyone who has been outside during the holidays. Residents of all ages stand next to kettles in front of local businesses and ring a bell to attract monetary donations from those who pass by.
   The drive is held during weekends in December, and those who volunteer are asked to give an hour of their time for the fundraiser. All the money raised stays in South Brunswick. The donations are placed in an account and given to needy patrons to use for necessary expenses, like rent, utilities and medical bills throughout the year. The drive also provides the funding for two $750 scholarships that are given to South Brunswick High School seniors who express an interest in a social services related career.
   Jen Vogel, a coordinator with the local Salvation Army unit, said the charity relies heavily on the kettle drive to raise money for the entire coming year.
   ”This is basically our only major fundraiser for the year,” Ms. Vogel said. “People are generous, and they know it is a difficult time. I don’t think we will have a problem raising money for the fund, if we can get enough people to man the kettles for long enough.”
   She said the charity has had enough businesses agree to have kettles placed outside. However, there aren’t enough volunteers to work all the locations for the entire time they are allowed to be there.
   ”We don’t have anywhere near enough people volunteering right now,” Ms. Vogel said. “It is a problem that we run into almost every year. People will express interest, but they don’t follow through. Some will schedule a time and cancel at the last minute, or just not show up at all.”
   Ms. Vogel said that she and members of her family will often have to fill in on short notice, but sometimes there are too many cancellations or no-shows, and kettles will have to be shut down early.
   She said she hopes people will recognize the need this year, and volunteer their time even if they can’t afford to donate.
   ”Around the holidays it should be about those around us, not just ourselves,” Ms. Vogel said. “Volunteering your time doesn’t cost anything, but you are still doing something nice that will benefit those who need help. If you can’t afford to donate money, it is very nice to donate your time.”
   Ms. Vogel said that volunteers often have fun with the experience by playing a musical instrument or dressing up when operating the kettle. She said those who volunteer do not have to do any of direct solicitation.
   ”We don’t accost people as they pass by. We just stand there and ring the bell,” she said. “If the people want to donate, they will.”
   Those who wish to volunteer can do so by contacting Ms. Vogel at [email protected], or on her cell phone at 732-881-3158. Ms. Vogel said they will work with people to find the best time and location for the volunteers convenience.