CCHS NHS: Rings in the Season

On December 22nd 2012, 45 members of the Central Cambria National Honor Society took part in ringing bells for the Salvation Army during their 122nd Red Kettle Campaign. The Central Cambria National Honor Society completes this service project yearly stated, NHS Advisor, Mrs. Shirk. “I love to see the students involved in service projects; I believe that starting good habits of humanity towards others now will certainly help the prospective of these students continuing their good deeds when they reach adulthood.”

Kandace Long, NHS member stated, “…it feels good giving time back to the community.” Erika Dreikon, another NHS member, stated, “Bell ringing got me in the Christmas spirit …”

Each senior member of NHS and a few junior members volunteered for an hour of service to ring the Salvation Army bells outside of Walmart in Ebensburg. While the weather was bitterly cold, the spirit of these youth was undeniably jovial. Some students sung, others danced, and a few even brought their trumpets to play some seasonal music.

Perhaps it was their youthful charm, or the compassion that shoppers felt for these adolescents as the entered Walmart on that blistery winter day, nonetheless, this group continued to be surprised by the outpouring of donations. Lindsy Stohon, NHS Student, stated, “I was surprised how many people donated! A lot of them thanked me for donating my time; it was a good feeling.” Sabrina Blake another NHS bell-ringer added, “I was really surprised by the generosity of people…even in a recession.”

Sam Stevens, NHS member, stated, “It was cold! But, I really enjoyed myself.” He then jokingly added, “If it had lasted any longer than an hour though, I don’t think I would have made it.” It does leave one to ponder…if an hour in the cold was tough for our bell-ringers, what is it like for the homeless, who don’t get to go home in an hour, but instead must endure the bitter cold. Thanks to the Salvation Army and their supporters the Red Kettle Campaign, in 2013, according to the Salvation Army website, will:

• “Provide food and shelter to the hungry and homeless 
• Provide assistance to communities impacted by natural or manmade disasters 
• Counsel men and women suffering with drug and alcohol dependency through our Adult Rehabilitation Centers 
• Offer housing and support to women and children seeking refuge from domestic abuse 
• Send thousands of underserved kids to camp next summer, provide them with back-to-school supplies, and offer them fun, educational and safe after-school programs. 
• Provide rent and utility assistance to low-income families 
• Teach life skills and vocational training to individuals struggling to gain independence and self-sufficiency 
• Preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ through word and action to “the poor, the homeless, the hungry, and the destitute” (salvationarmyusa.org). 

“While the weather was frightful, the experience for these students was delightful, and I hope that they each will continue their goodwill to men not only throughout this holiday season, but throughout their lifetimes,”- Shirk.