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Bell Ringing Basics:

*For 2009 Christmas Season, Bell Ringing begins on November 13th and ends on December 24th, excluding Thanksgiving and Sundays.

*Sign up for a time, date, and location that are convenient for you. You may ring as long as you want, however, we do ask that you take at least a four-hour shift.

*You also may ring as many times as you like, but if you’re going to sign up for more than five consecutive shifts please call our office at 785-233-9648 and we will be happy to sign you up.

*After you’ve signed up go to your appointed location. A properly identified Salvation Army official will bring you a kettle and bell, and when your shift is over they will come and get it from you. If you are unsure that the person is from The Salvation Army ask for proper identification. Sometimes the drivers are running a little bit behind – if you have been there for over 15 minutes, call the emergency numbers attached to the kettle stand.

 

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Scheduling a Shift:

 

You may look for available slots prior to logging in, but you must log in to reserve a shift.  Click the Not Registered Yet? link to register for the first time.

 

1.      Click the SEARCH button to begin.

  • Select a date other than today’s date.
  • Select a time period (before noon, noon to 6:00 p.m., after 6:00 pm or anytime).
  • Select a city or select multiple cities if you are available to ring in more than one city.

2.      Next, click BEGIN SEARCH.  A list of open shifts will display. You can reserve more than one shift at a location.  Click on the Map link to view the location of the Red Kettle site.  If you do not see the location/shift you desire, try using the ADVANCED SEARCH button.

3.      Click the check box next to the shift(s) you would like to volunteer for, and then click the RESERVE button.

4.      Confirm or cancel your shifts by clicking on SELECT or REMOVE.  You may also click on ADDITIONAL INFORMATION to add more information, such as number of bells, friend sharing your shift information and any additional information or instructions you need relayed to The Salvation Army. 

5.      Press the SUBMIT button.  You will receive a confirmation email shortly. 

Note, only the registered ringer will receive a confirmation email.

Using the Calendar Control

 

 

 

 

Select a single day by clicking on it.  You can’t select multiple days, but you can select the entire week by clicking the > at the left of the week. 

To view availability for the entire month, click on the >> next to the days of the week.

 To display the next month, click on the > in the upper right corner next to the month. To display the previous month, click the < in the upper left corner next to the month.

 

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My Profile:

You may edit your contact and login information at any time by clicking on My Profile.  Your password must be between 6 and 20 characters long and contain numbers, letters in any combination, but cannot contain spaces.

 My Schedule:

You may review a list of your bell-ringing shifts by clicking on My Schedule. If you need to cancel a shift, you may do so when reviewing your schedule.

My Totals:

After you have completed your shift, click on the My Totals link to view the amount you helped raise. Please wait a few days after your shift as it takes time to get the Red Kettle funds counted and the money recorded.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How does it work?
You sign up for a time, date, and location that are convenient for you. After your timeslot has been confirmed simply show up at the appointed location. Someone from The Salvation Army will come and bring you a kettle and bell(s), and return to pick it up when you are finished. DO NOT RELEASE the kettle if the person is not properly identified as being from The Salvation Army!! *Each volunteer has their own kettle so even if there is someone scheduled before or after you the kettle should be changed out.

How long do I have to ring?
You may ring as long as you like, but we do ask that you ring at least a minimum of four hours. If you are plan to sign up for more than five consecutive shifts please call our office at 785.233.9648.

What if I have to reschedule?
If you find you are unable to make your scheduled ringing time please call the contact numbers listed next to each location on your schedule.

What if the weather is bad?
Bell ringing is very rarely cancelled, but if there is inclement weather, and you are unsure, please call the emergency contact numbers listed next to each location on your schedule.

What do I wear?
Unless it is otherwise noted you will be standing outside so dress appropriately!!! If it’s cold – bundle up! Wear lots of layers and especially good, comfortable shoes. Bell ringing is very rarely cancelled, but if you are unsure please call the emergency numbers listed next to each location on your schedule.

What if my equipment is late?
Drivers delivering and picking up equipment may have multiple locations and may be late. If have been at your location for more than 10 or 15 minutes please call the contact numbers attached to the kettle stand.

Who do I contact in an emergency?
If you have an emergency while ringing please call one of the numbers attached to the kettle stand. If it is a life-threatening emergency please dial 911.

Does Bell Ringing count as community service?
Yes it does!! If you would like to schedule community service hours please call 785.233.9648 and we will sign you up and make sure you get the appropriate credit.

How is the money used?
It is estimated that more than 160,000 people will be in need of Salvation Army services during the next year. This assistance includes:

If you would like more information about our local programs and services please visit our website or call 785.233.9648.

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