Led by Elon University sophomore Annie Segal, students volunteering for the Salvation Army collected more than $100 this fall while also gathering gifts through the nonprofit's Angel Tree and Stocking Stuffers programs.
By Melina Casados ’18
Elon University students involved with The Salvation Army brought kettle bells to campus this fall to assist a national nonprofit organization that helps fight poverty and hunger locally in Alamance County.
Bringing the bells to campus for the first time was sophomore Annie Segal’s top goal this holiday season as a coordinator in the Leaders in Collaborative Service program managed by the Kernodle Center for Service Learning and Community Engagement.
“In the past no one had tried to bring the kettle bells because we are on winter break during the traditional kettle season,” Segal said. “I didn’t see why we couldn’t start earlier here.”
Bells have been a success with ringers collecting more than $100 to benefit The Salvation Army while earning the nonprofit greater visibility on Elon’s campus.
Segal said she believes this year has been the biggest yet for The Salvation Army at Elon. In addition to bringing the bells to campus, Salvation Army programs such as Angel Tree and Stocking Stuffers have allowed for campus organizations to sponsor community members.
Both programs help provide people of all ages with gifts during the holiday season.
“The Salvation Army is so much more than a food bank,” said Segal. “Yes we have a food bank that is incredible, but we are also a thrift store, a financial aid service, a church, and a loving welcoming community to anyone who needs it.”
Students interested in getting involved with The Salvation Army can email salvationarmy@elon.edu.