Augusta’s Salvation Army Surpasses Red Kettle Goal
The Salvation Army of Augusta is celebrating the success of its 2023 Red Kettle Campaign. The organization announced today that more than $235,000 was raised over the holidays, surpassing this year’s goal by $10,000.
Major Jonathan Raymer, Area Commander for the Salvation Army of Augusta, said the organization is grateful to the community. “We are incredibly blessed to be able to make a difference in other people’s lives every single day, and a big part of that blessing is doing it in the Augusta community,” said Raymer.
The annual Red Kettle Campaign is the Salvation Army of Augusta’s largest fundraising event of the year. Volunteers ring the bells outside stores and other businesses in hopes of raising enough money to continue funding services offered to the area’s homeless, as well as preventing homelessness in Augusta.
How the Salvation Army of Augusta Uses Monetary Donations
Derek Dugan, Director of Development at the Salvation Army of Augusta, said the organization placed 164 formerly homeless individuals into permanent housing during the fiscal year that just ended in October. It also helped 697 people stay in housing through casework and financial assistance, thanks to funds primarily raised through the Red Kettle campaign.
“Last year, The Salvation Army of Augusta provided over 28,000 nights of shelter and provided over 73,000 meals at our Soup Kitchen,” said Dugan. He added, “The Red Kettle campaign reaching its goal provides a great start for the Salvation Army being able to serve so many in need in 2024.”
While the Red Kettle campaign is the largest fundraiser for the Salvation Army of Augusta, monetary donations are needed throughout the year to make a difference in the lives of many.
To Donate to The Salvation Army of Augusta
Visit www.donateaugusta.com to make a donation. Volunteers are needed as well.
Nearly 30 million Americans across the country receive assistance from the Salvation Army in the way of shelter, food, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled, clothing and other social services every year.
Giving Back To The Community - Volunteer Opportunities in Augusta This Holiday Season
While giving back to the community is great to do any time of year, it seems the holiday season is when we really think about it. Now here we are, already in November, with Thanksgiving and Christmas coming up quickly. If you’re thinking of ways you can give back this holiday season, read on for some volunteer opportunities in Augusta.
Volunteering
There are many ways you can volunteer and help out the community this holiday season. Many organizations need additional help this time of year to help families who are experiencing hard times. And also, as the weather gets colder, providing resources for those who are experiencing financial hardships or homelessness.
Volunteer opportunities vary depending on the organization. Some need help preparing food for holiday meals. Others are in need of help serving the meals. And then there are other opportunities to help raise funds or collect donations. You can often volunteer for short periods of time, while other places ask for year-round volunteers.
Why Volunteer?
Volunteering is a great way to help those who are less fortunate. You can make a difference in their lives in ways that you may never see. But volunteering feels good. It’s great to know that you can contribute to your community and bring a smile or relief to a family in need.
Being a volunteer is a great reminder to be thankful this time of year. If you’ve been tremendously blessed, it feels good to help spread that love and blessing to others.
While volunteering, you also get to meet a variety of people. It’s a great chance to step out of your usual circle and meet new people and learn about them. You never know who you might meet. Not only could you have an impact on people right here in the community, you might also meet someone who changes your life.
If you’ve ever had the chance to hear stories from people who have dealt with challenges, you may know what I mean. Hearing about the struggles these people have had to overcome can greatly impact you. It’s an eye-opening experience. Families who’ve dealt with job losses, sickness, loss… It’s a powerful reminder of how strong we are, and how blessed we are.
You could make new friends, learn new skills, and learn more about the community. Overall, volunteering is a heartwarming experience for all involved. You have the chance to give back and make a difference right here in your community. See more about the benefits of volunteering HERE.
If you’ve got some time this holiday season, check out some of these opportunities.
Volunteer Opportunities in Augusta
If you have an opportunity to add to the list, please email [email protected].
Mary Liz is the News Director and Co-Host of Augusta’s Morning News on WGAC. She spent 11 years as a News Director at an Indiana Radio Station. She has also worked as a former Police and Courts Reporter for The Republic Newspaper and Assistant Marketing Director of Merchants National Bank in Indianapolis. Mary Liz focuses most on local breaking news stories, feature stories on upcoming events, or community-service related organizations and the people who serve them. She has been with WGAC since 1995.
