Want to volunteer in your community? Visit this web page for more information. (CREDIT: Salvation Army)

The Salvation Army of Aurora on Wednesday announced its ambitious goal of raising $250,000 this year but said a shortage of bell-ringers and shorter bell-ringing season are two big challenges.

Cpt. Rich Forney, corps officer for The Salvation Army, said he’s hoping for a little help.

“We believe in the generosity of the community in donating to the red kettles and the volunteerism of individuals to help support our effort’s this Christmas season,” he said. “This year, we are already at a shortfall due to the shorter bell-ringing season, and we could use the community’s help.”

Celebrating 126 years, the traditional red kettles once again will be seen throughout communities across the United States through Dec. 23.

The Salvation Army’s red kettles at Christmas time are a holiday season tradition in communities throughout Kane County. While the funds raised during the holiday season provide for Christmas assistance, they also support the organization’s year-round programs for social and community services.

The Salvation Army is looking for volunteer bell-ringers. Individuals, families, service clubs, churches and businesses are encouraged to signup online at www.registertoring.com. The Register to Ring program allows prospective volunteers to go online and choose the locations, dates and times that they wish to volunteer to ring bells. The system will also generate automatic email confirmations and reminders. This is a great resource for school-required community service hours.

Other Holiday Volunteer And Giving Opportunities

Angel Tree – The Salvation Army – The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army of Aurora is reminding area residents of other opportunities to give hope this season.

Angel Tree  — Last year, more than 3,500 children were provided toys and clothing through the Angel Tree Program. Volunteers adopt Angels, or wish list items from registered children of low-income families, and purchase toys and other items listed on the tag. Companies are encouraged to setup a Christmas tree for customers to select an angel tag from, and after shopping for the child, the customer returns the unwrapped gifts to the company location.

The Salvation Army will coordinate with the company a pickup time between Dec. 1 and Dec. 15 of the unwrapped gifts or they can be dropped off at The Salvation Army, 1981 W. Galena Boulevard, Aurora IL in the old Nicole’s Hallmark Store. For more information, contact Cpt. Linnea Forney at 630-589-4001 or linnea_forney@usc.salvationarmy.org

Angel Tree Sorting — Volunteers will help sort and arrange toys, clothing, coats, books, and games for the Angel Tree families. Some heavy lifting required. Groups are encouraged to volunteer and special arrangement times can be made to fit scheduling of groups.

Angel Tree Distribution — Volunteers assist with cross-checking of gift bags and help families to carry gift bags to vehicles. Volunteers are requested to be over age 18 for this project, or accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Virtual Angel Tree — Create a company virtual Angel Tree at http://aurora.theangelgivingtree.org

Red Kettle Reason — What’s your #RedKettleReason? Pick a cause and create a virtual red kettle to promote on social media at www.redkettlereason.org

For more information or to volunteer, please contact Cynthia Lawrence at 630-897-7265 or email her at: Cynthia_Lawrence@usc.salvationarmy.org

SOURCE: Salvation Army of Aurora news release