Bell Ringer FAQ's
Bell Ringing Frequently Asked Questions and Guidelines
How can I volunteer?
Contact The Salvation Army Kettle Coordinator at 701-838-8925.
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. A kettle and bell will be at your location or take over for the ringer stationed there before you. Just start ringing and smiling! Nothing is as attractive as a smile. Be courteous. Wish shoppers a “Merry Christmas” and be sure to thank people for their donation. If addressed, respond briefly and kindly. It also helps to open the door for others if they are near your stand. Your friendly attitude is vital to the success of the kettle campaign.
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 two hours. We encourage volunteers to take four hours or more as this helps The Salvation Army manage sites and volunteers more effectively. Find someone to share your shift with you.
How many people can be at the kettle?
Most kettle sites have limited space. Groups of more than two people may intimidate potential donors to the kettle. Never entertain friends or relatives while on duty; it discourages donations and often blocks the entrance, causing us to get an angry store manager’s phone call. Always remember that we are guests at the location we are ringing at. Any direction from the store manager should be considered law. Always follow his word.
What if I have to reschedule?
If you find you are unable to make your scheduled ringing time, please call 701-838-8925 at least 48 hours prior to your shift, if all possible.
What if the weather is bad?
Bell ringing is very rarely cancelled, but if there is inclement weather, and you are unsure, please call 701-838-8925.
What do I wear?
All bell ringing sites are inside, except Wal-Mart. At the Wal-Mart location, there is a shack and it can get chilly so dress appropriately! If it’s cold – bundle up! Dress neatly and be clean. Clean shaven or beards trimmed. You will be provided an apron and it should be worn at all times when at the kettle.
What if my equipment is late?
Kettles will be delivered and picked up on a regular basis by authorized Salvation Army representatives. Drivers delivering and picking up equipment may have multiple locations, encounter traffic and may be late. Please be patient. If the kettle and bell is not delivered within 10 minutes of your shift start time, please call 701-838-8925. Also, if a kettle becomes full prior to pick up, call 701-838-8925 and a new kettle will be brought to you.
What do I do with the kettle when I am finished?
The kettle is securely locked onto the stand, and only Salvation Army staff may remove the kettle. If the next ringer has arrived, give the bell to that person so that he/she may start the next shift. If no one has come to replace you or collect the equipment, place the bell at the base of the stand and the apron through the handle of the kettle and you may leave. Volunteers are not responsible for “standing guard” over the kettle once their shift is finished.
Who do I contact in an emergency?
If you have an emergency while ringing, please call 701-838-8925 so that we may assist you and provide a replacement for your position. 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 inform The Salvation Army Coordinator when you select your shift. If you have a form that needs to be signed to verify your bell ringing hours, bring it to the Corps at 315 Western Avenue, Minot after you have completed your shift and ask The Salvation Army Coordinator to sign it or you may also fax the form to 701-838-2511 to have it signed (you must include your name and a number the signed form can be faxed to).
How are donations accepted?
Do not accept donations in hand, rather, politely ask them to place the money in the kettle to avoid the appearance to others that you are stealing. We get many phone calls regarding this and do not wish to wrongly suspect someone.
Where does the money go?
To support local Salvation Army services: Thanksgiving and Christmas baskets for the needy and toys for the children; visits and gifts to local nursing home residents; and year round emergency assistance for those that are in need, food pantry, and clothing vouchers to The Salvation Army Thrift Store.
Do bell ringers get paid?
Some bell ringers get paid for their work. Most individuals volunteer to ring bells. This allows more money raised to have a direct impact on the needy.
For more information regarding bell ringing contact:
Ruby Rau
Administrative Assistant/Case Mgr.
The Salvation Army Corps - Minot
315 Western Avenue
701-838-8925
ruby.rau@usc.salvationarmy.org
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