Like with any great fundraising push, the strength of the Salvation Army Christmas Kettle campaign comes from the people who support it.
St. Albert's Salvation Army needs around 200 volunteers this year to look after the various kettles throughout the city in locations like Walmart, Superstore and St. Albert Centre.
Shifts are two hours long and the only requirement is a willingness to help out – and, of course, smile.
"You stand and ring the bells, smile as people come in, smile as they go out and wish them a Merry Christmas," said Christine McTiernan, who has been volunteering for the Christmas Kettle campaign since she was just 10 years old.
"Some stop to talk, some have had a bad day – (you can) be hopefully a cheerful soul for them to meet as they go through whatever experiences they're going through."
McTiernan started volunteering for the campaign with her mom when she lived in Vancouver, a tradition that has stuck with her throughout her life. She recalls hearing as a youngster from her dad about how the Army's charity and outreach impacted him.
"They were always there," she said.
The wealth of people she meets and the stories they share with her never fade.
"It's really, to me, a rewarding experience," she said.
"You get to meet people in the public, you get to hear different stories of what the Army has done for them and their (loved ones) ... how the Army has stepped up to help out when they can, which is what the Kettle Campaign money is all about. That's where it comes in – to help the needy and people who can't make ends meet."
As you connect with your fellow community members, the time flies by, she added.
Volunteering is as easy as giving the Salvation Army a call at 780-458-1937 and figuring out what two-hour time span works best for you.
Once you're on a shift, you show up at your designated location, where McTiernan says kettles are already set out along with candy canes and calendars.
The Salvation Army also needs volunteers to pick up the money and drop off kettles.
