Star Power: How Renowned Chefs and NFL Hall of Famers Are Motivating Communities to Volunteer for a $13 Million Cause

SalvationArmyUSA.org provides community assistance and hope, with every donation staying in the community.
By: Angela Redding | Los Angeles, CA | Hollywood Beat magazine | December 9,, 2024
Salvation Army Logo: The Salvation Army

This holiday season, well-known families and community members are coming together to share Christmas cheer with those who need it most. They are taking part in the long-standing tradition of bell ringing for The Salvation Army Red Kettles. During the Red Kettle Campaign, these families will volunteer at various Salvation Army locations across the country, inspiring everyone to unite and help others.
Who’s Who Ringing the Bell
Among the participants are Laurel, Mississippi-based home renovation TV duo Ben and Erin Napier; Carlos and Alexa PenaVega, entertainers and longtime supporters of The Salvation Army from Franklin, Tennessee; NFL Hall of Famer Cris Carter from Boca Raton, Florida; chef and restaurateur Guy Fieri from Santa Rosa, California; Michael Redd, a retired NBA star and Olympic gold medalist from New Albany, Ohio; Lindsay Whalen, a WNBA Hall of Famer and Olympic gold medalist from Minneapolis, Minnesota; and Anderson, South Carolina’s Miss Volunteer America Berkley Bryant.

In order to capture the spirit of the Christmas season and encourage others to follow suit, the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders have also developed a Red Kettle dance and are scheduled to ring the bell at The Salvation Army’s famous Red Kettles.
Raise Awareness
By volunteering to ring the bell at a Red Kettle, these powerful organizations will raise awareness of the value of group giving and show that even a small act of kindness can make a big difference.
$80-$100 buys about 200 meals
Over the course of a two-hour shift, volunteer bell ringers typically earn $80-$100 in donations, which can buy roughly 200 meals for the underprivileged.
Erin and Ben Napier
Erin and Ben Napier, a well-known TV home renovation couple, emphasize the importance of giving back to the community. They are passionate about encouraging families all over the country to participate in charitable activities. Their partnership with The Salvation Army highlights their commitment to helping others.
The Salvation Army is recognized for its extensive work, which includes supporting local communities throughout the year, assisting families in recovering from disasters, and offering emotional and spiritual support.
The Napiers believe that these efforts make a significant difference in people’s lives.
Michael Redd, retired NBA star and Olympic gold medalist
“It’s been incredibly inspiring to be part of The Salvation Army’s National Advisory Board for the past few years, so I’m excited and grateful for the chance to ring a bell at one of my local Red Kettles this season,” said Michael Redd, retired NBA star and Olympic gold medalist.
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The Red Kettle Campaign
The Red Kettle Campaign is an important fundraising effort by The Salvation Army that helps provide essential services like meals, shelter, and holiday assistance to many families in need. Last year, the campaign was very successful, raising about $2.7 million every day. However, this year there are five fewer days for giving, which could lead to a significant loss of $13.5 million. This situation highlights the increased importance for families and groups to participate in the campaign and help by ringing the bell in their neighborhoods.
“The Red Kettle Campaign is about more than just raising funds,” said Commissioner Kenneth Hodder, national commander of The Salvation Army. “It is about bringing people together, inspiring acts of service, and making a tangible impact in the lives of families in need. With fewer days to raise money this year, every hour of bell ringing is crucial.”
Join The Salvation Army in spreading Christmas joy
The Salvation Army is inviting families to join in spreading Christmas joy this holiday season. By participating, families can make a positive impact in their local communities.
One way to get involved is by registering to ring the bell, which helps raise funds for those in need. This is a great opportunity for families to come together and help brighten the holidays for others.
Get Involved:
- Sign Up To Ring: Visit RegisterToRing.com to volunteer at a local Red Kettle.
- Donate: Stop by any Salvation Army Red Kettle or donate online at SalvationArmyUSA.org.
More Information
For more information on how to participate, visit SalvationArmyUSA.org or follow along on Instagram and X at @SalvationArmyUS as celebrities ring and spread Christmas joy.

Hollywood Beat magazine
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