Those familiar red kettles are almost back… and the Salvation Army needs a lot of hands to keep them staffed! Based on two-hour shifts, it takes 1,264 volunteer hours to cover every kettle location in Coles County this holiday season. The kettle campaign begins on November 13th and runs through Decemeber 24th, or Christmas Eve. Here in 2026, the goal is to raise $165,000 to meet this year’s Christmas needs locally.
Every dollar dropped into a kettle stays local, going directly to neighbors, family, and friends, who need help during a tough time. Not only could you support your community, you could get something out of it for your business, non-profit, or charity, too!
This year, the Cromwell Media Group of Mattoon is helping bring an extra incentive for businesses and groups to step up through the “Ring for a Day” program. Volunteer for a minimum of eight hours, Monday through Saturday, and you can earn $300 worth of free advertising on a Cromwell Media station of your choice. Want to hit our devoted country or sports listeners? Maybe you would rather focus that advertising towards our classic rock or pop loving audience… you, your staff, friends and family, can pick the days and times that work best, with the option of four separate two-hour shifts to reach the eight-hour minimum. And just like that, you’ve got radio advertising following this busy holiday season. Not a bad deal, right?
Here’s how it works: Head to www.volunteer.central.salvationarmyusa.org, search your zip code, and book your preferred days and locations. The Salvation Army will share your contact information with Luci Englum, General Manager of Cromwell Media Group of Mattoon/Decatur, who will reach out after Christmas. You’ll then have the first quarter of the New Year, January through March 2027, to air your free advertising on 101.3 WMCI, Victory 103.9, 92.1 The Axe, or 104.3 The Party, subject to availability.
As an extra touch, the Salvation Army will put a sign with your name on your kettle during your shifts and keep a separate count for each kettle, so you’ll know exactly how much you raised.
LINK TO SIGN UP!: www.volunteer.central.salvationarmyusa.org
