For whom the Salvation Army bells toll
by Kathleen Stinson

ANTHEM – The Salvation Army bell ringers in Anthem are on a mission to help their fellow residents.

“We have people in Anthem who need help with paying their power bills, rent or mortgage, groceries, gas to get to work, clothing and medical prescriptions,” said Larry Evans, president of Rotary of Anthem, longstanding organizers of the local bell ringing campaign.

Last year the bell ringers collected $10,000 in two weeks, Evans said. This year the group hopes to collect at least $15,000 in three weeks because the need is growing in Anthem.

Anthem resident Erik Kilstrom has volunteered as a bell ringer for the past two years.

“I just love to help people. It’s another way to help,” he said.

His sons Griffin, 8, and Grayson, 5, also assist with fundraising.

“They love it. They’ve been doing it since they were six and three,” Kilstrom said, adding his sons distribute candy canes to other kids.

The Rotary club has an agreement with the local Safeway and Wal‑Mart to allow bell ringers outside the doors.

“What’s most important is the kids get the biggest kick out of giving money.”

“Looking into their eyes when they are giving ... they are always laughing and joyous.”

Evans said he has never had a problem getting volunteers from the Rotary club and the community to ring bells. He estimates about 50 people volunteered this year.

For information on how to volunteer as a bell ringer, contact Evans at 623‑225‑6342.

Reach the reporter at kathleen@thedesertadvocate.com.