SULLIVAN, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — The Sullivan Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign is right around the corner, and this year, they’re honoring a special member.
The Red Kettle Campaign is an annual fundraiser that is the budget to help the community the following year.
The money that is raised in the kettles will stay in the county where it is raised. If you want to support your local community, please donate your money to the kettles in your community. This is the main fundraiser for our county, for our budget for 2025.
Michele Smith – Chairman – Advisory Council of Sullivan Salvation Army
For the first time ever, this year will be kicked off with Jim Sparks Day.
Sparks passed away in 2021 to kidney cancer. He was a member of the Salvation Army’s Advisory Council and loved ringing the bell.
He would ring the bell every single day out in front of Walmart. Monday through Friday, for an hour, for the entire six weeks. He not only loved the fact that he could help raise money, that we would turn around and help people in our community with, but he loved to connect with people.
Michele Smith – Chairman – Advisory Council of Sullivan Salvation Army
Jim’s daughter, Susan, says it has been hard for them to participate in the activities since he passed, but the idea to dedicate the day to him has brought everyone together.
We have all aspects already, with the slots we have filled, that represent all sorts of sections of Dad’s life. It’s really been close to my heart, just to see these people coming out and signing up to ring the bell and be out there to celebrate Dad.
Susan Gofourth – Daughter of Jim Sparks
If you would like to sign up to ring the bell, call 812-699-5730, or go to this link.