Bellringer volunteers vital to charity’s fund drive

By Audrey LaFave - alafave@dailypress.net

ESCANABA - The telltale ringing bells and red kettles for many mean it's time to open our hearts and our wallets to the local Salvation Army. The volunteers who ring the bells and man the kettles are vital to the organization's yearly fund drive.

Members of the Vietnam Veterans of America Local 345 have made a tradition of volunteering at Elmer's County Market this time of year.

Dan and Joyce Duncan of Escanaba were on duty at Elmer's Wednesday afternoon and said their group has members who live throughout all of the southern U.P. Members take turns throughout the day about once per week in the approximate six-week long Christmas season kettle drive.

"We were here at least four or five times so far during the holidays. Club members are here from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.," said Joyce. "Our group has been doing this for at least three years."

Dan and Joyce, both Vietnam-era vets, served in the Navy and have been married for more than 40 years. Dan said he didn't mind spending his time ringing the bells for the Salvation Army.

"(I do it) to help provide for those who cannot provide for themselves," he said. "It's beneficial to the local residents. This helps the Salvation Army, veterans, and a whole bunch of people we don't even know."

Joyce said working as a volunteer was important to her as well.

"It feels good to help people," she said.

The Duncan's said from what they can see and have heard, the donations are down this year because of the economy.

"Unfortunately this is down and the need is up," said Joyce.

The Duncans said the Vietnam Veterans of America Local 345 signs up early to request their location.

"We ask for Elmer's - we like to be here. Elmer has been good to us throughout the years," said Dan.

"This is a wonderful spot," Joyce agreed.

Dec. 24 is the last day for the Red Kettle Day, when bell ringing ends at 4 p.m. Until then, the Salvation Army kettles will be out Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.