Bell Ringing How-to Guide

Download the information below on a one-page sheet to take with you or give to your volunteer crew.

Thank you for volunteering to ring the bell at a red kettle. The Red Kettle Campaign is the largest fundraiser for The Salvation Army in Central Ohio. Contributions from your kettle help those in need right in your community.

General Presentation

You represent yourself, your organization and The Salvation Army well when you ring the bell. Smile and have fun. Making a great impression with shoppers – weather they donate or not, benefits The Salvation Army.

Please stand during your bell ringing shift (unless you have a medical condition)
No eating , but feel free to enjoy a beverage
No smoking
Smile, have fun!

Attire

Your bell ringing location may be outside or in a breezeway. Please check the forecast before you arrive.

Wear comfortable shoes
Dress warmly enough for the weather
Wearing seasonal attire (red scarf, hat, Christmas sweaters) helps put shoppers in the mood to contribute!

Greeting Shoppers

A friendly smile with lots of eye contact is the best way to greet shoppers.

Try and greet every shopper, whether they make eye contact or not
Feel free to say Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays
Ring the bell based on conditions (louder for outside, softer if inside lobby)
Thank shoppers for donating!

Kettle and Bell Procedures

If you are the first person to arrive or the last to leave:

The kettle stand (tripod and sign) may be stored in the lobby area close to the exit door. The red kettle and bell is stored at the service counter.
Set up the stand near the exit door.
NEVER leave your kettle unattended. If you have an emergency, please take the kettle and bell to the service counter with instructions on how long you will be gone.
The last person ringing for the day takes the kettle and bell to the service counter and stores the tripod and sign. (There are instructions on the back of the sign)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I write a check?
A: Yes, payable to The Salvation Army

Q: What will the donations be used for?
A: Donations stay in Central Ohio and go to support local programs providing food, housing and toys to people in need. 85 cents of every dollar donated is returned directly to community service.

Any other questions about The Salvation Army or questions from the media should be directed to Alice Hohl – 614-437-2138.

If someone is interested in volunteering to be a bell ringer, please ask them to contact Cathy Bell, 614-403-0404 or at redkettleringer@gmail.com