2016 Holiday Tool Kit

The Salvation Army
Southern California Division
DHQ Development Department
Holiday Tool Kit
Kettles
Online Resources
Volunteers
Public Relations
Corporate Relations
Adopt-a-Family
Angel Tree
Holiday Food Drives
Toy Drives

1. Kettles
a. Introduction
Development Holiday Tool Kit
Table of Contents
Click Item to jump to page!
b. 2015 Summary / Map
c. Monthly Action Plan -­‐‐ Kettles
d. Tips For A Successful Campaign
e. The Origins of the Kettle
f. Kettle Worker Dress and Conduct Code
g. A Dozen Tips For Better Bell Ringing
h. Basic Standards for Kettle Workers
i. Volunteer Flyers (4 flyers)
j. Volunteer Recruitment Letter
k. Kettle Worker Paperwork
l. Letter To New or Lapsed Kettle Locations
m. Volunteer Bell Ringer Sign-­‐‐up Sheets For Groups and Organizations
n. Bell Ringing Schedule Sheet and Information
o. Letter to Confirm Official Volunteers
p. Customizable Thank You For Your Support Flyer
2. Online
a. Online Red Kettle
b. Kettle Integration Guide – Volunteer Management Program
3. Volunteers
a. Introduction
b. Monthly Action Plan -­‐‐ Volunteers
c. Overview and Best Practices Guide for Volunteer Recruitment
d. Support and Supervision of Volunteers
e. Holiday Volunteer Opportunities Flyer

f. Customizable Volunteer Recruitment Letter
g. Customizable Thank You Letter
h. Volunteer Paperwork Explanation
i. One time Individuals
ii.
iii.
On-­‐‐going / full season volunteers
One time Groups
4. Public Relations
a. Introduction
b. Why Do News Media Exist/Why Is It Important?
c. What Do Media Want From Us?
d. Getting to Know Your Local News Media
e. How Can I Tell if I Have a Newsworthy Story/Program/Event?
f. Media Etiquette
g. Key Messages
h. The Interview
i. Various Forms of Communication Overview (Email/Media Alert/Press Release/Pitch Letter)
j. General Press Release Template
k. General Media Alert Template
l. Adopt-­‐‐a-­‐‐Family/Food and Toy Drive Press Release Template
m. Angel Tree Press Release
n. Corporate Food Drive Press Release
o. Facebook Best Practice
5. Corporate Relations
a. Corporate Opportunities
b. Point of Sale Campaign Overview
c. Dip Jar Information Sheet
d. Customizable Letter for Corporate Volunteer Groups
e. Mattel and The Salvation Army

Development Holiday Tool Kit
Table of Contents (continued)
Click Item to jump to page
6. Adopt-A-Family
a. Introduction
b. Step-­‐‐by-­‐‐Step Guide
c. FAQs for TSA Staff
d. Adopt-­‐‐A-­‐‐Family Promotional Flyer (sample)
e. Application Sample Form
f. Adopt-­‐‐A-­‐‐Family Profile form
g. Gift Pick-­‐‐Up Card Template
h. Facility Guidelines
i. FAQs for Sponsors
j. Corporate Support Request Letter
k. Sponsor Commitment Form Template
l. Thank You Letter Template
m. Gift Sign-­‐‐Out Sheet Template
n. Customizable Gifts In-­‐‐Kind Report
o. Adopt-­‐‐A-­‐‐Family Sponsor List
p. Adopt-­‐‐A-­‐‐Family Client List
q. Commonly used statistical reporting codes
7. Angel Tree
a. Introduction
b. Step-­‐‐by-­‐‐Step Guide
c. FAQs for TSA Staff
d. General Profile Template
e. Family List Spreadsheet Template

f. Gift Pick-­‐‐Up Card Template
g. Corporate Support Request Letter
h. FAQs for Sponsors
i. How to Host a Salvation Army Angel Tree Document
j. Angel Tags Request Form
k. Angel Tags Template
l. Sponsors Spreadsheet
m. Customizable Gifts In-­‐‐Kind Report
n. Facilities Guidelines
o. Thank You Letter Template
p. Sample Seasonal Statistical Report
8. Holiday Food Drives
a. Introduction
b. Why a Food Drive?
c. How to Run a Food Drive
d. Food Drive Tips and Suggestions
e. Food Drive Timeline Sheet
f. Ask Letter Template
g. Thank You Letter Template
h. Food Drive Sample Emails
i. Gift In Kind donation form
9. Toy Drives
a. Introduction
b. Step-­‐‐by-­‐‐Step Guide
c. FAQs
d. Customizable Initial Contact Letter
e. Customizable Thank You Letter
f. Customizable Post-­‐‐Christmas Survey for Donors

Kettle Program
Introduction
One of the most difficult tasks that a Corps Officer, Program Director
or Service Extension Worker is called upon to complete is the task of
running a well organized, productive and lucrative kettle program.
With the red kettle being a staple in Christmas culture, the kettle
program also one of the most rewarding experiences to the directors,
workers, volunteers, and to the general republic.
One of the main keys to success is to start EARLY. In fact, the earlier
the better!
In this section you will find a month to month action plan, a best
practices guide, customizable flyers and letters, and form templates
to assist your overall kettle campaign.
May you have a very successful and blessed Christmas kettle
season!
1a. Introduction

Monthly Action Plan
To Secure New and Past Kettle Locations
May
June
July
• Send letters to solicit support of potential new kettle sites. Include information about
the Kettle Campaign and details about the services your Corps provides for the
community
• Connect with past kettle sites – let them know about events, volunteer opportunities and
success stories from your Corps.
• Follow up with new kettle sites in person and in uniform. Give them a face to a name.
• Follow up with store managers (both new and past sites) and invite them to coffee or to
August
tour your Corps. Start to build a relationship in order to get their commitment early.
• Continue with coffee dates/tours
September
• Call all kettle sites (new and past) and confirm ringing dates. Remember national
agreements are just a foot in the door. Final approval always comes at the local level.
• Follow up with sites that you have not heard back from.
October
• Send updates/reminders of 2016 kettle sites
November
• Stay in close contact with kettle sites. Confirm any final details.
December
• Stay in close contact with store managers throughout the season. Check in to see if
January
anything can be improved. Address any concerns/questions to make sure all involved
parties are happy and engaged with the Kettle Campaign.
• Call all kettle sites to say THANK YOU! Follow that up with a thank you letter that
includes the dollar amount raised at that site and overall.
2c. Monthly Action Plan -­‐‐ Kettles

Kettle Program
Tips for a Successful Campaign
Overall Kettle Strategy
The Salvation Army’s Southern California Division Kettle Campaign brings in
approximately $2 million dollars annually for individuals and families in need. The
campaign is directly managed by corps officers and “Service Extension” and the funds
go directly to local programming.
Issues for Consideration
Christmas Ambassadors (Volunteer Bell Ringers)
• Volunteers maximize donations collected (by reducing overhead expenses). They
also typically collect higher amounts per hour.
• We must work to establish a volunteer base early (See volunteer recruitment plan in
volunteer section 3b).
• Volunteer groups such as Boy Scouts, Rotary Clubs, businesses, and churches
can also be utilized effectively.
• Consider starting a Red Kettle Club (http://redkettleclub.org/) with one of your
local middle or high schools.
• Businesses/groups could be encouraged to “adopt” or sponsor a kettle (more
notes on this topic follow).
• Paperwork:
o Volunteers covering only one shift must fill out a one-­‐‐time volunteer
application.
o Volunteers who will be with you the whole season need to fill out the
entire volunteer packet (including background check).
• It’s a good idea to run one time volunteers’ names through the FBI’s sex offender
database at www.nsopr.gov. No release is required for you to check this
database. People on the sex offender database cannot volunteer.
Paid kettle workers
• Paid workers are paid minimum wages and are temporary employees.
• Kettle workers can sometimes create a negative impression, so you need to
observe and coach your workers.
• The cost of kettle workers reduces fundraising efficiency; sites staffed by paid
kettle workers receive fewer donations than do volunteer sites.
2d. Tips For A Successful Campaign

Media exposure
• Publicity encourages kettle donations, serving as a cue as well as an educational
tool that reminds the public how kettle donations get put to good use in their
community. Publicity for kettles can also serve as a reminder to major donors to
make their annual Christmas gift.
• Many corps conduct their own local kettle kick-­‐‐off events to trigger publicity in
their local communities.
• Also at the Southern California Divisional level, there’s an annual kettle
luncheon, which encourages corporate, board and other local leaders to give. It’s
a competitive and festive holiday fundraiser that brings in more than $100,000.
Corps officers are encouraged to orchestrate similar events that meet their own
community needs. For more idea, contact Development.
Kettle locations
• Some kettle sites are established through national relationships with retail chains;
however, local initiative is required to identify and establish the best locations for
your community. Talk with mall managers and store owners, for example, well
in advance of kettle start dates. Follow the action plan in section 1c of this binder.
Best practices
• Kettle programs vary according to the community. There is no consistent
strategy across the board, so there’s plenty of room for local innovation. Consult
with DHQ or your peers for new ideas.
• It’s advisable to build upon previously-­‐‐established relationships. This is not only
efficient, but a good donor strategy as well. Donors tend to remember kettles
from past years and expect to see them again.
General Kettle Season Tips
Ø Create a calendar of “deliverables” leading up to a successful kettle season
including: sites; paid workers, volunteers, PR, etc.
Ø Establish clear goals based on kettle history.
Ø Set up a system to track the productivity of your sites and place workers
accordingly.
Ø Try innovative ideas such as seeking potential business/groups willing to
adopt a kettle
2d. Tips For A Successful Campaign

Christmas Ambassador (Bell Ringer) Recruitment
Paid workers
Challenge: Quality Control.
• The quality of paid workers has been an issue for corps officers. It is reported
that some of the kettle workers seem unapproachable, untrustworthy or untidy.
This is because wages are low and paid workers have been chosen last minute.
We often can find only low-­‐‐skilled, unemployed workers who want this kind of
work.
o From time to time, kettle workers are also recent graduates of TSA
programs. Please remember to treat kettle workers with dignity and
respect while training them to excel in their new role.
Solution: Proper recruitment is crucial.
• Be innovative in your recruitment strategies. For example, work through reliable
sources. Contact your best workers from last year and invite them back.
• Recruit kettle workers early – in October if possible.
Recommended Websites to post ‘Bell Ringer’ Description:
(Note -­‐‐ Some of these are best suited for volunteers)
o Idealist.org
o Yelp.com
o Volunteermatch.org
o www.unv.org
o 1800volunteer.org (South
o LAWorks
Bay-­‐‐ Harbor-­‐‐ Long Beach &
o VolunteerVentura (United
San Gabriel Valley)
Way)
o Servenet.org
o VolunteerSantaBarbara
o Craigslist
(United Way)
o Meetup.com
o UCLAVolunteer
o Onlinevolunteering.org
o Christianvolunteering.org
Volunteers
Challenge: Volunteers lack experience.
• Volunteers need training in how a bell ringer should act, as well as relevant
background information on The Salvation Army as a whole.
• There common fear that volunteers will not show up for their scheduled shift.
Solution: Inform Volunteers of what is expected.
2d. Tips For A Successful Campaign

• Conduct a volunteer orientation touching on the following points:
o The history and purpose of the kettle campaigns
o The importance of their roles as bell ringers.
o Dress and over all conduct.
o How to deal with issues that may arise.
o Precise contact information for immediate assistance.
o Meal breaks.
o Use of cell phones.
• Early volunteer recruitment should not only be at the Divisional level, but also
at a local level. This allows corps to make exact dates of when volunteers
should come in, orientation dates, and exact requirements and allows the
corps officer/coordinator to recall the volunteer prior to the volunteer’s chosen
date and time.
• Make sure all volunteers are reminded via email and phone call a week before
shift and again the day before the shift.
• *Recommended recruitment sites suggested in paid worker section above *
Kettle Coordinator
Each corps could benefit from having at least one kettle coordinator in addition to the
corps officers. Corps officers should be able to distribute essential responsibilities to
these coordinators: volunteer recruitment, scheduling, kettle drop offs, and bell
ringer neighborhood checks. Kettle coordinators should be good “trouble-­‐‐shooters.
Recruiting Businesses
Offer suggestions to local business on how they can get involved in the Red Kettle
Campaign! Here are ways they can participate:
• Sponsor a kettle monetarily, while it is being physically manned by a paid
bell ringer. This makes up for the cost of paying the worker.
• Sponsor a customizable online red kettle (see section 2a for more details)
• Bring a kettle to keep at their workplace. Schedule a date/time to pick-­‐‐it up. A
“deadline” will serve as a concrete “call to action” and will help create a sense
of urgency on the part of the businesses’ employees to give. Involve both
management and employee associations.
2d. Tips For A Successful Campaign

• Write a sizable check and deposit in a kettle placed in the company’s
community. Depending on the amount, consider partnering with DHQ’s
development team to publicize the donation.
• Sponsor the corps at a company function during the season.
• Volunteers from a company can give their time in pairs or mini groups.
Recruitment should take place months prior. Give the company information
about The Salvation Army and how volunteerism of this kind can be
beneficial to their company.
• Consider challenging 2 companies to compete against each other on a
certain day to see which can raise the most. The involved companies will
typically put their own time/effort behind promoting the kettles, in the spirit
of winning (for a good cause!)
• Businesses also allow us to put kettles outside their stores so it is important
for Corps officers to start making a connection with the managers months
prior to kettle season. Managers of stores should be presented with a contract
and cell phone numbers of the corps officers/kettle coordinators in case they
need to contact you urgently.
• If businesses don’t want to participate but would choose to donate in other
ways, they may donate goods/services as incentives for people to volunteer.
For example, Baskin Robbins will donate a certain number of scoops if you
show you have volunteered as a bell ringer.
• Toward the end of the season, a business can choose to donate the remaining
amount required for your corps to meet its kettle goal.
Other Recommendations
Begin Christmas Kettle Campaign Planning early. The sooner the campaign gets
started, the better prepared you are once the holidays come around. Follow the
monthly action plan in section 1b.
Integrate kettle locations into the volunteer management program. This way
volunteers can select the shifts and locations they want. THQ offers training
classes on the program and a step by step guide is located in section 2b.
Divisional leadership will make phone calls to all officers periodically during the
kettle season. During the kettle campaign, regular updates on national
agreements will go out from DHQ to Corps Officers.
2d. Tips For A Successful Campaign

One-­‐‐time Volunteers do not get processed by DHQ’s HR Department. Short-­‐term
volunteers only need to complete The Salvation Army one-­‐‐time volunteer
application. You must enter these volunteers into the system yourself.
It is advisable that you go online to www.nsopr.gov and do a quick sex offender
registry check for each volunteer. There is no cost for this background check, but
you should do it and print out the results. Remember that there are often many
people with the same name, so if the name of your volunteer pops up, you must
look at the details on the website to determine whether the person listed is the
same person who wants to volunteer. Convicted sex offenders are not eligible to
volunteer.
Corps have the ability to enter kettle volunteers, groups and paid workers into
the kettle system.
If you submit group applications for volunteers, input the name into the system.
Then you can input hours of volunteer service and how much money the group
raised. Give feedback to each group on how well their kettle(s) did.
For volunteers, whether groups or individuals, you can input the names yourself.
Do not send volunteer information through DHQ’s HR Department.
Most important things to remember:
Start early.
Be organized.
Communicate (with donors, volunteer, site managers, DHQ, etc.)
Ask for help from peers and DHQ.
2d. Tips For A Successful Campaign

The Salvation Army Annual Red Kettle Christmas
Campaign
The Origin of The Salvation Army Red Kettle
The Salvation Army Captain in San Francisco had resolved, in December of 1891, to
provide a free Christmas dinner to the area’s poor persons. But how would he pay for
the food?
As he went about his daily tasks, the question stayed in his mind. Suddenly, his
thoughts went back to his days as a sailor in Liverpool, England. On the Stage Landing
he saw a large pot, called “Simpson’s pot” into which charitable donations were thrown
by passers-­‐‐by.
On the next morning, he secured permission from the authorities to place a similar pot
at the Oakland ferry landing, at the foot of Market Street. No time was lost in securing
the pot and placing it in a conspicuous position, so that it could be seen by all those
going to and from the ferry boats. In addition, a brass urn was placed on a stand in the
waiting room for the same purpose.
Thus, Captain Joseph McFee launched a tradition that has spread not only throughout
the United States, but throughout the world.
By Christmas, 1895, the kettle was used in 30 Salvation Army locations in various
sections of the West Coast area. The Sacramento Bee of that year carried a description of
the Army’s Christmas activities and mentioned the contributions to street corner kettles.
Shortly afterward, two young Salvation Army officers who had been instrumental in the
original use of the kettle, William A. McIntyre and N.J. Lewis, were transferred to the
East. They took with them the idea of the Christmas kettle.
In 1897, McIntyre prepared his Christmas plans for Boston around the kettle, but his
fellow officers refused to cooperate for fear of “making spectacles of themselves.” So
McIntyre, his wife and sister set up three kettles at the Washington Street thoroughfare
in the heart of the city. That year the kettle effort in Boston and other locations
nationwide resulted in 150,000 Christmas dinners for the needy.
In 1898, the New York World hailed The Salvation Army kettles as “the newest and most
novel device for collecting money.” The newspaper also observed, “There is a man in
charge to see that contributions are not stolen.”
2e. The Origins of the Kettle

In 1901, kettle contributions in New York City provided funds for the first mammoth sit-­‐down
dinner in Madison Square Garden, a custom that continued for many years.
Today, donations to Salvation Army kettles at Christmas time support holiday meals for
homeless and needy families, but also help The Salvation Army serve 30 million people
through a myriad of other services all year long. These include:
• Disaster Response Services, which include assisting survivors of natural and
man-­‐‐made disasters to recover and rebuild their lives;
• Social Service programs providing food, shelter, clothing and financial
assistance;
• Casework and Counseling, with programs for health care and residential
assistance and abuse counseling;
• Youth Services, with programs for music, athletics, arts and crafts, camping and
family counseling;
• Senior Centers, focused on assisting the needs of older adults -­‐‐-­‐‐ including eight
Silvercrest centers where seniors’ assistance is partially subsidized by federal
government dollars;
• Christmas Programs, in which the famous Red Kettles are a centerpiece, to help
families and individuals financially at year-­‐‐end with toys, meals and other
assistance;
• Human and Sexual Trafficking Advocacy, where Army officers and staff are
focused on public policy in Washington, D.C., and providing services and
advocacy for victims of this international crime.
Kettles now are used in such distant lands as Korea, Japan, and Chile, and in many
European countries. Everywhere, public contributions to the kettles enable The
Salvation Army to bring the spirit of Christmas to those who would otherwise be
forgotten all year long – to the aged and lonely, the ill, the inmates of jails and other
institutions, the poor and unfortunate.
In the United States, kettles at Thanksgiving and Christmas, although changed since the
first utilitarian cauldron set up in San Francisco, help make it possible for The Salvation
Army to do the most good possible for 30 million people each year.
2e. The Origins of the Kettle

Christmas Ambassador (bell ringer)
Dress & Conduct Code
Kettle workers become the face of The Salvation Army during kettle season.
We request neat and appropriate attire and behavior of our workers while
standing at our kettle sites. We ask that workers uphold the respectable image
and conduct of one of America’s most trusted charities, The Salvation Army.
Thank you for your cooperation and your great service during this holiday
season!
Things TO wear:
1) Holiday clothing, feel the spirit of the season and dress up in fun
sweaters, red & green, or any other holiday themed outfit!
2) Uniforms, if you are part of a group that wears a uniform (Boy Scouts,
Girl Scouts, etc…) please wear your uniform!
3) Are you bell ringing with a friend? Wear matching or complementing
outfits!
4) Sweater or jacket and comfortable shoes.
5) Clean & properly-­‐‐fitted clothing.
6) Most of all, wear something that presents a respectable image.
Things NOT to wear:
1) Clothing that advertises, depicts, or glorifies alcohol, tobacco, drugs,
obscenities/profanities, violence, illegal activities, gangs or prison life.
2) Clothing that features discriminatory or prejudiced slogans or symbols.
3) Tube tops, halter tops, or thin/spaghetti strapped tops.
4) Low cut, see-­‐‐through, or midriff showing tops.
5) SHORT shorts or SHORT skirts.
6) Pants/shorts/skirts that “sag” or show underwear.
7) Undershirt tank tops.
8) Items or accessories that can be used as weapons such as long chains,
spiked collars, etc.
9) Sweatpants.
10) Jeans.
2f. Kettle Worker Dress and Conduct Code

Thing TO do:
1) Please greet all people with a smile.
2) Greet and thank people who donate.
3) Be respectful, friendly and approachable to all customers.
Things NOT to do:
1) Use cell phones, mp3 players, iPods, or other electronic devices.
2) Smoke or drink alcoholic beverages.
3) Appear inattentive and uninterested.
4) Hassle aggressively.
2f. Kettle Worker Dress and Conduct Code

A Dozen Tips for Better Bell Ringing!
1. Always have a pleasant attitude. Remember, you represent the spirit of Christmas and
The Salvation Army. Smile, and be sure to say “thank you!”
2. Use common sense at all times.
3. Understand that we don'ʹt have the 'ʹright'ʹ to stand our kettle at any store. We'ʹre there
because we’re invited to be. So, be gracious and kind in our dealings with and about the
store and management.
4. Be clean and presentable and dressed in weather-­‐‐appropriate Salvation Army-­‐‐branded
attire.
5. Be gracious, even with those who choose not to give. We don’t ask people to put money
in the kettle, we just make it easy and fun for them to do so.
6. Always stand at your kettle. No sitting unless you have a doctor’s note.
7. Do not use your mobile phone unless you are on a break or there is an emergency.
8. Never smoke or eat at the kettle.
9. Work alone, unless you are part of a group that has permission to stand the kettle
together. Distracted bellringers miss opportunities to make eye contact and be friendly.
10. Wish people a “Merry Christmas.”
11. Keep a ‘cheat sheet’ handy with kettle-­‐‐appropriate messages:
a. Thank you for your donation to help people in need this Christmas and all year
long.
b. Your donation to The Salvation Army in stays in this
community to help our neighbors.
c. If you’d like more information about The Salvation Army, please find us online
at www.salvationarmy-­‐‐socal.org.
12. Limit your conversations to kettle-­‐‐related topics. Please don’t discuss Salvation Army
policy, positions and theology. Questions of this nature should be referred to someone
on Development’s Community Relations Team.
Most of all – The Salvation Army is grateful to you for your service!
2g. A Dozen Tips for Better Bell Ringing!

Volunteer as a Christmas Ambassador
With The Salvation Army!
Bell Ringing is great for ALL AGES
Ring with your family, friends, co-workers,
and community organizations!
Your help goes a long way for people in need!
Services include:
• Christmas Programs
• Homeless Assistance
• Disaster Response
• Youth Services
• Drug & Alcohol Rehabilitation
• HIV/AIDS Advocacy
• Food Assistance
Bell ringing season is Mid-November until Christmas.
Contact (Name) for more information at (Phone) | (Email)

Christmas Ambassadors Needed
This Christmas Volunteer with The Salvation Army!
Did you know that volunteer Bell Ringers collect nearly double the amount of donations as paid
workers? That is double the amount of food for families, twice as many homeless individuals
provided a bed to sleep in, and twice as many children given toys this holiday season!
Donations made to Kettles go towards:
• Providing toys for children.
• Giving needy families groceries.
• Serving holiday meals.
• Providing general relief and assistance during Christmas.
• Sheltering the homeless.
Join us in “Doing the Most Good” for your community by becoming a volunteer Bell Ringer at one of
our kettles this holiday season!
Play an instrument, sing a song or just greet people as they walk by with a smile. Bell-­‐‐ringing is great
for individuals, groups, families, youth, and seniors!
You can volunteer once, twice, or as many times as you would like at one of the many Southern
California kettle locations near you. Bell ringing occurs Monday-­‐‐Saturday from morning until
evening.
For more information on how to be a Christmas Ambassador contact:
(name) at (phone) | (email)

VOLUNTEERS WANTED!
Help out as a Christmas Ambassador (bell ringer), support your local
Red Kettles and be a part of an international movement!
The Salvation Army needs your help to continue making a difference in the lives of those in need in your
community. Your support helps us provide services such as:
• Casework and Counseling: Programs for health care, job search, residential assistance and abuse
counseling.
• Christmas Programs: With the famous Red Kettles as a centerpiece, to help families and individuals financially
at year-end with toys, meals and other assistance.
• Homeless Assistance: The Salvation Army operates shelters and transitional programs that assist the homeless
with food, shelter, and transitional programs that prepare them for the job market.
• Disaster Response Services: The Salvation Army assists survivors of natural and man-made disasters in
recovering and rebuilding their lives.
• Youth Services: The Salvation Army helps youth in need with music programs, tutoring, athletics, arts and crafts,
camping and family counseling.
• Rehabilitation Services: Through cooperative arrangements with prison, probation, and parole officials
throughout the country, The Salvation Army plays a growing role in rehabilitation and crime prevention. The Salvation
Army also provides extensive alcohol and drug rehabilitation programs for those in need.
• HIV/AIDS Awareness Prevention and Assistance: The Salvation Army provides housing to
families affected by HIV/AIDS, along with counseling and child development services.
• Senior Centers: The Salvation Army is focused on assisting the needs of older adults, including eight residential
centers for low-income seniors in Southern California.
Contact (name) for more information on how to volunteer at (phone),

Musicians we need you!
Volunteer with The Salvation Army
This Holiday season
Music is a great way to inspire the spirit of giving during the holidays. Volunteer as a
solo artist or band this season at one of our many Southern California kettle locations.
You’ll share holiday cheer and do the most good for your community!
Donations made to kettles go towards:
• Christmas Programs
• Homeless Assistance
• Disaster Response
• Youth Services
• Drug & Alcohol Rehabilitation
• HIV/AIDS Advocacy
• Food Assistance
Contact (name) for more information | phone | email

(Corps/program) ·∙ (Address)
TEL (xxx) xxx-­‐‐xxxx; FAX (xxx) xxx-­‐‐xxxx; email
www.salvationarmy-­‐‐socal.org
[Insert Date]
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
The [Insert your division] of The Salvation Army would like to [thank you for your past
support of our ministry] [invite you to participate in The Salvation Army’s most
important fundraiser of the year] [thank you for your interest in volunteering this
Christmas].
A few days from now, the sound of the tinkling bells will be heard from near and far
throughout our community. This once-­‐‐a-­‐‐year fundraiser is vital to The Salvation Army’s
efforts to provide [XXX] food baskets to hungry families, eviction prevention and utility
assistance, as well as toys for children and teens that would otherwise go without.
Thanks in part to volunteers like you, The Salvation Army is recognized as one of the
most efficient organizations in the world. We truly need your help with volunteer bell
ringers or what we like to call Christmas Ambassadors! Christmas Ambassadors will
ring for [two hour] [four hour] shifts. Kettles are out Monday through Saturday from
[Insert Beginning Date until End Date.] We encourage volunteers to play instruments,
sign carols, and spread the joy of the season!
It is vital to the success of the program for the entire [Insert your city] community that
volunteers step forward and help those in need. I’d be happy to speak with you about
our programs and volunteer positions.
To reserve your Christmas Ambassador volunteer time slot today, call [Insert name]
[Insert position] at [XXX-­‐‐XXX-­‐‐XXXX].
Thank you for keeping The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle campaign in your prayers this
Christmas, as well as for your consideration in volunteering with us. All of us at the
[Insert your division] of The Salvation Army wish you a very Merry Christmas and
Prosperous [Insert coming year]!
God bless,
[Insert name]

Paperwork Protocol
Volunteers Vs. Paid Kettle Workers
As many of you are aware, there is a substantial amount of paperwork involved
during the holiday season, especially as it relates to volunteers and paid kettle
workers. It is important that you follow the following procedure for both:
Volunteers
One time volunteers can fill out the simple application attached to this section.
Keep this application for your files, no need to send to DHQ. Volunteers who
decide to work more than one day must fill out the standard volunteer packet.
Contact Human Resources at DHQ for the most up-­‐‐to-­‐‐date paperwork.
Paid Workers
The procedure for acquiring and activating the paid kettle worker is more
involved. To make this process as streamlined as possible, it will be necessary for
you to contact Human Resources at DHQ for the most up-­‐‐to-­‐‐date paperwork.
Thank you for your cooperation on this matter!
1k. Kettle Worker Paperwork

THE SALVATION ARMY
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA DIVISIONAL HEADQUARTERS
180 East Ocean Boulevard, Suite 500
Long Beach, CA 90802-4709
P.O. Box 93002
Long Beach, CA 90809-9355 (mail)
WILLIAM BOOTH
Founder
ANDRÉ COX
General
JAMES M. KNAGGS
Territorial
Commander
KYLE SMITH
Divisional
Commander
Dear (Company/Partner name),
During the Holidays you’ve seen our signature red kettles and heard the
sounds of silver bells on the streets and this year we want you to be a part
of it!
We invite you to participate in our Adopt-­‐‐a-­‐‐Kettle program. By adopting a
red kettle not only will your company’s name be advertised in high traffic
areas during the holidays it will also show the public that (Company name)
is Doing the Most Good for your community and those in need.
You can Adopt-­‐‐a-­‐‐Kettle for one or more days, a week, or the whole season,
it’s all up to you!
There are the two ways you can Adopt-­‐‐a-­‐‐Kettle:
• For $100 per day your logo will be displayed on the kettle at the high
traffic location of your choice.
• Represent your company in person by standing at the kettle for one
(or more) of our 8 hour shifts. Wear your logos while ringing the bell
to get the most exposure for you company!
As you may already know, 82 cents of every dollar donated to The
Salvation Army goes directly to support community service programs. All
donations remain in communities where they originate therefore you will
directly see the impact you are making within your community.
For more information on The Salvation Army and how (Company Name)
can Adopt-­‐‐a-­‐‐Kettle this Christmas season please contact (NAME) at Phone,
Email today!
Visit us at our website
www.SalvationArmy-SoCal.org

Volunteer As a Christmas Ambassador
With Your Friends and Family!
Bell Ringing is a great way to serve with each other and all kettle proceeds go
directly to your community! (Kettle season generally runs from Thanksgiving to
Christmas.)
“If I have been of service, if I have glimpsed more of the nature and essence of
ultimate good, if I am inspired to reach wider horizons of thought and action,
if I am at peace with myself, it has been a successful day.”-­‐‐ Alex Noble
“A lot of people are waiting for Martin Luther King or Mahatma Gandhi to come back -­‐‐-­‐‐ but they are
gone. We are it. It is up to us. It is up to you.”-­‐‐ Marian Wright Edelman
Name Phone # E-mail Bringing
others?

Name Phone # E-mail Bringing
others?

[Insert year e.g. 2010] SALVATION ARMY – BELL RINGING – INFORMATION SHEET
Date Called Notes Date Scheduled Time Scheduled Location Scheduled
Remember with each call to:
1. Verify address, insert address below.
2. Repeat date, time and location.
3. Give them the contact phone number _______________________.
4. For the first and last shift people only…Tell the first shift, the kettle will be delivered to you, and to please wait if it’s not
there when you arrive. Tell the last shift not to leave until someone picks up the kettle.
5. There is an emergency phone number on the kettle stand.
6. Ask if they’d be willing to be an emergency contact – or if they’d like to ring more times.
7. Tell them they’ll get a reminder call the night before.
8. Tell everyone to please be on time.
Address: _______________________________________________City___________________________Zip Code:____________________
Last Name:___________________________ First Name:___________________________ Phone Number:________________________

The Salvation Army
(Corps/Program) ·∙ (Address) ·∙ (Phone) ·∙ (Email) ·∙
www.salvationarmy-­‐‐socal.org
[Insert date]
Dear [Insert name e.g. Friends],
Thank you for your commitment to our [insert year e.g. 2010] Kettle Campaign! We
want you to know your volunteer service is very important to The Salvation Army and
our entire community.
Please note the date, time and location we have reserved for your bell ringing
commitment. If it is incorrect or you need to make any changes, please call me right
away.
[Insert Information for Volunteer – can be handwritten] _________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
[Insert Name] is the Route Manager assigned to your location. His cell phone number is
[Insert Number]. Questions or problems encountered during your bell ringing shift
should be addressed directly to your Route Manager. If you are unable to reach
[him/her] please call [Insert name, position e.g. Tom Donald, Kettle Campaign
Coordinator at insert phone number] or myself at [insert phone number].
(Include following paragraph ONLY if applicable) Enclosed are your Bell Ringer
Manual and Salvation Army ID. Please take a moment to read the manual. The
Salvation Army identification is for you to wear during your bell ringing commitment.
Please return the ID by dropping it into your kettle at the end of your commitment.
Again, thank you for volunteering your precious time to The Salvation Army. You are
doing the most good!
Sincerely,
[Insert name]
[Insert position e.g. Volunteer position]

Merry Christmas [Insert Year]
Thank You for Your Support!
When you reach into your pockets, you produce small
miracles: food and shelter, a second chance, and a path to a
future. This year your gifts will help The Salvation Army:
Provide [insert number] families a month of food
Provide [insert number] toys to needy children
Send over [insert number] meals on Thanksgiving Day
Provide a youth center for at-­‐‐risk youth
Provide weekly programs for youth, families and seniors
Help create [insert number] annual instances of service -­‐‐ small miracles!
Help assist those impacted by domestic and international disasters
For more information, please contact [Insert name and contact]

RedKettlePlus.org
Make Change with Change
Be part of a 125 Year legacy of giving
In 1891, a Salvation Army Captain in San Francisco placed a large pot at the Oakland Ferry Landing
hoping to collect donations in order to provide a free Christmas Dinner to those in need. This tradition
quickly caught on, enabling The Salvation Army to provide holiday dinners to the homeless and poor,
groceries for struggling families and toys for children that would otherwise go without.
Your Kettle Will Help Change Lives
Every year, with the help of Christmas kettles, The Salvation Army aids more than 3 million individuals at Thanksgiving
and Christmas. Today, you can donate without having to search deep in your pockets for any overlooked change or need
a large pot and ringing bell to make a difference this holiday season and bring joy to families in need.
GIVE NOW
Or click below to get started!
1. COMMUNITY 2. CAUSE
3. INVITE
Choose your community
Choose your cause
Invite friends to help raise
funds for your cause
Feed
the
Hungry
Shelter
the
Homeless
Make
Christmas
Possible
Meet the
greatest
need
Join Our Team
Team up with your local
Community to fundraise
Customize your page
(Optional) Upload image
and update description
Be the top raiser!
Doing the most good
in your nieghborhood
William
Booth
JOIN
GIVE
While nieghbors go
hungry, I’ll Fight!

What is Online Red Kettle?
Frequently Asked Questions
You’ve seen our red kettles out in front of the stores, right? Well, this is your own personal kettle
– a way for you to help millions in need by raising donations through email and social networking.
How are my funds used?
Gifts to your red kettle will support The Salvation Army in your local community, which is selected
during participant regsitration or kettle donation.
Can I volunteer to be a Red Kettle bell ringer?
Absolutely! All you have to do click is contact Amy.Hudson@usw.savlvationarmy.org to sign up for
a physical kettle near you. Bell ringing begins around Thanksgiving and continues until Christmas.
Who can volunteer or be an online fundraiser?
Anyone. Individuals, groups (corporate, church, school, universities, civic, neighborhoods).
Is there a registration fee?
Why RedKettlePlus.org
Feed the Hungry, Shelter the Homeless
When others donate to your kettle, they’re giving far more than money. They’re giving meals to a
hungry child, warm beds to a homeless family, and hope to those who need it most.
Creating an online Red Kettle campaign is free and open to anyone, anywhere!
Getting Started
Team up with a local Salvation Army Community to fundraise. Here are some tips for succes.
VISIT REDKETTLEPLUS.ORG
After completing team registration, use dashboard controls (see above) at the top of the page to:
1. Make a self-donation to get things started. Show your donors you care!
2. Personalize your page with a story about your own experience or about a child in need.
3. Send 5 emails today to friends, family or colleagues and share on social media!
Import Contacts from Webmail (Gmail, Yahoo, Aol, Outlook.com*)
1. In the Campfire Kettle dashboard controls under “Messages,” select “Contact List.” Under “Import Contacts” , select “Import from Webmail.”
2. Select email provider, sign in to account to allow access and choose desired contacts.
*For more information on exporting contacts from Outlook, click here
Import Contacts from Lotus Notes (For Salvation Army Staff)
1. In Lotus Notes, click the “Contacts” view icon and select “My Contacts” on the left panel. In the menu bar, select the File>Export Contacts.
2. Click “Change Directory” and choose Desktop. Enter a “File name,” under “Save as type” select “Comma Separate Value” then click “Export”.
3. On your desktop, open CSV file, rename the following columns: firstname, lastname, email. Delete all over columns then click “Save.”
4. In the Campfire Kettle dashboard controls under “Messages,” select “Contact List.” Under “Import Contacts” , select “Import from CSV file.”
5. Choose file located on your desktop and click “Next.” Select desired contacts or click “Select All” then click “Add Contacts”.

RedKettleReason.org
Make Change with Change
Be part of a 125 Year legacy of giving
In 1891, a Salvation Army Captain in San Francisco placed a large pot at the Oakland Ferry Landing
hoping to collect donations in order to provide a free Christmas Dinner to those in need. This tradition
quickly caught on, enabling The Salvation Army to provide holiday dinners to the homeless and poor,
groceries for struggling families and toys for children that would otherwise go without.
Your Kettle Will Help Change Lives
Every year, with the help of Christmas kettles, The Salvation Army aids more than 3 million individuals at Thanksgiving
and Christmas. Today, you can donate without having to search deep in your pockets for any overlooked change or need
a large pot and ringing bell to make a difference this holiday season and bring joy to families in need.
GIVE NOW
Or click below to get started!
1. COMMUNITY 2. CAUSE
3. INVITE
Choose your community
Choose your cause
Invite friends to help raise
funds for your cause
Feed
the
Hungry
Shelter
the
Homeless
Make
Christmas
Possible
Meet the
greatest
need
Join Our Team
Team up with your local
Community to fundraise
Customize your page
(Optional) Upload image
and update description
Be the top raiser!
Doing the most good
in your nieghborhood

Integrating Kettle with the Volunteer Management Software:
All initial set up of kettle locations and shifts needs to be completed in the Kettle Software. This
information can then be imported into the Volunteer Management Software for completion. Once
that is done, the sites can be published from the Volunteer Management Software to the Volunteer
website for the public to view and sign up.
1. Before you can integrate, please make sure the following things are in place:
a. You are a valid Kettle User with access to that software
b. You must also be a valid user in the Volunteer Management Software as well.
2. First you have a campaign set up for this Christmas season in the Kettle Software
pg. 1

Integrating Kettle with the Volunteer Management Software:
3. Next in the Kettle system, under System Tools, go into the Control Record and make sure “Allow
Web Volunteers” is selected:
After the campaign is set up for the coming year and the control record is set up you will be
setting up locations, shifts and linking them together so that the system will integrate with the
volunteer system.
pg. 2

Integrating Kettle with the Volunteer Management Software:
4. In Kettle, under System Tables, each LOCATION that you want displayed on the web should have
the “Allow Web Volunteers” option checked.
5. Choose the location
and click on the edit
button to review the
location.
6. Make sure the location ‘has a
physical address with street
and zip code’ as well as has
the ‘active’ button chosen
and allow web volunteers
chosen as well.
a. After you have updated the kettle locations as to which locations you are ringing bells at
as well as which ones you are planning on using for the volunteer recruitment you will
then set up a shift for the volunteers to ring bells.
b. Make sure that the shifts are reasonable for volunteers to ring – most will only ring a
couple hours at a time.
pg. 3

Integrating Kettle with the Volunteer Management Software:
7. In Kettle, under System Tables, each SHIFT that you want displayed on the web should have the
“Allow Web Volunteers” option checked. Below are two examples of typical shifts.
8. Once you have entered your web shifts – go back to the locations that you wish to have
volunteers and customize the shifts that you will have at that location.
a. You can mass select or customize the shifts for that location
b. The one thing you do not want to do is have a whole day shift for volunteers. If you
have a company or group that wants to take a whole day – link each shift to the group.
pg. 4

Integrating Kettle with the Volunteer Management Software:
pg. 5

Integrating Kettle with the Volunteer Management Software:
9. Once you have completed all set up in the Kettle Software, you can proceed to the Volunteer
Management Software.
10. Begin by selecting “Opportunities”, then select “New Opportunity”.
pg. 6

Integrating Kettle with the Volunteer Management Software:
11. The New Volunteer Opportunity Wizard will walk you through the set up process. For Kettles,
select the “Kettle Bell Opportunity option and then click “Next”. The Volunteer System
automatically asks to make sure you have done everything in the Kettle software first before
starting the Kettle Volunteer opportunity
12. Once you open the kettle opportunity it wants to have you indicate what division, until (a
default job for your volunteer and the campaign year – when you enter that and say next it
brings in a wizard that helps you select the locations that you wish to import into the Volunteer
system to be available for web shifts.
pg. 7

Integrating Kettle with the Volunteer Management Software:
13. Select the locations you wish to import by checking the box to the left of each and then click
“Finish”.
14. The next page allows you to customize your Opportunity. Just follow the menu down the left side of
the screen. (Please note: must be used for paragraph breaks>)
Main Info page marked active – all the formatting and information for the kettle opportunity
comes from the Kettle Software itself (dates etc) You do not have to edit that page except for
making sure the opportunity is marked active.
pg. 8

Integrating Kettle with the Volunteer Management Software:
15. Who Should Come: (you choose)
16. Contact Info: (your information auto populates – if someone else is in charge of kettle put their
information in this screen – this shows for the user on the front end of the software)
17. Locations – Imported from Kettle Software. You can import additional locations from this screen
as well.
pg. 9

Integrating Kettle with the Volunteer Management Software:
18. Shifts – all shifts come from the Kettle software and should be managed there, but can be
viewed here:
19. Shift Rules – Registration, Cancelation and Reminder email constraints can be adjusted here:
pg. 10

Integrating Kettle with the Volunteer Management Software:
20. Data Collection: Choose the options for the specific opportunity – for bellringers – ask what you
want information for – if they are one time ringers you may not need to have PTM options filled
out.
a. Volunteer Information: address etc.
b. Registration Options (interests, skills etc)
c. Protecting the Mission options
pg. 11

Integrating Kettle with the Volunteer Management Software:
21. You can add custom questions if they are needed for the opportunity ie. Do you have any
special needs while standing at the kettle (need a chair etc) or we are collecting hat sizes, etc…
22. You can also add additional waivers – you will want to have the two standard waivers available
for the volunteers to sign when signing up for their kettle shift.
23. Adding documents here….
pg. 12

Integrating Kettle with the Volunteer Management Software:
24. You can choose interests to add but these are automatically added to the donor record.
25. How are you
handing groups?
26. Post registration email
pg. 13

Integrating Kettle with the Volunteer Management Software:
27. In Integration section it verified that everything is linked with the kettle software so that
registrants are in Kettle as well as checked off online as signed up.
28. Permission
is based on users in
VMS
pg. 14

Integrating Kettle with the Volunteer Management Software:
29. Publication makes the event available online for people to sign up. Kettle software has the sites
available for users to sign up at 50 miles out from the center of the zip code. A user may be able
to see other corps opportunities that are nearby,
30. If the opportunity is a private event the link can be given to an organization to volunteer without the
opportunity being published. Please see the staff via service desk for help on any issues.
pg. 15

Volunteers
Introduction
Though The Salvation Army relies heavily on its substantial volunteer base
throughout the year, a dedicated and reliable volunteer force during the
Christmas season is that much more essential.
To that end we have developed the following section of the toolkit to help
recruit, maintain and even grow your corps or program volunteer resources.
Whatever shape or structure your Christmas season activities take on, we believe
this volunteer information will be readily adaptable. The goal is functionality
and that is why we have included templates that can be utilized whether you are
engaged in Kettles, Adopt-­‐‐A-­‐‐Family, Salvation Army Angel Tree, Toy Drives,
Food Drives, or all of the above.
The following documents will help you with all phases of the volunteer process.
Contact Amy Hudson at DHQ for assistance with volunteer outreach and
recruitment. (562) 264-­‐‐3826 / Amy.Hudson@usw.salvationarmy.org
3a. Volunteer Introduction

Holiday Volunteers
Monthly Recruitment Plan
May
June
July
• Generate a list of potential volunteer groups. Seek out high schools and colleges that
have musical groups or classes/clubs that focus on volunteering.
• Generate a list of individual volunteers who reach out to you for volunteer opportunities
throughout the year. You can follow up with them once the holidays get closer with
ways they can help. Note – do not turn volunteers away. If you do not have volunteer
opportunities at that moment tell them you will get back to them when you do and
send them to amy.hudson@usw.salvationarmy.org for information on how to
volunteer in other areas.
• Find out if there are volunteer fairs in your area and how you can reserve a booth.
Unable to attend? Contact Amy Hudson at DHQ to see if she can cover the booth for
your corps.
• Send out a summer time e-­‐‐blast and newsletter to keep past and potential volunteers
(and groups) informed on events, success stores and about special upcoming holiday
opportunities.
• Provide information to local companies on how they can adopt a kettle (see information
in kettle section of tool kit).
• Hold a “Christmas in July” volunteer recruitment drive. Invite past volunteers,
potential volunteers and groups of interest for food, fun, and an informational session
about the ongoing volunteer opportunities with your corps highlighting the holidays.
August
• Ask local retailers (coffee shops, bookstores, clothing stores, etc) if you can post a flyer
about volunteer opportunities.
• Continue to seek out and attend volunteer fairs.
• Continue all recruitment efforts and follow up with any leads.
September
• Start planning bell ringer training
• Send a holiday e-­‐‐blast or newsletter to past and potential volunteers to keep them
informed of events, volunteer opportunities or success stories.
October
• Conduct volunteer bell ringer training
3b. Monthly Action Plan -­‐‐ Volunteers

• Finalize details with any companies interested in adopting a kettle
November
• Connect with volunteers to remind them of their bell ringing schedules and/or other
opportunities the volunteers are participating in.
December
• Connect with volunteers to remind them of their bell ringing schedules and/or other
opportunities the volunteers are participating in.
January
• Send letters to all volunteers to say thank you and invite them to a thank you event in
February.
February
• Hold a thank you luncheon/event for holiday volunteers. Present certificates for all
volunteers and special gifts/awards for stand out volunteers.
3b. Monthly Action Plan -­‐‐ Volunteers

Volunteers
Overview and Best Practices
Volunteers are a vital part to the success of The Salvation Army’s Christmas programs.
Whether it be at the kettle, sorting toys, or serving meals the experience of a volunteer
during the holidays is something they will always remember. Not only is working with
volunteers beneficial to accomplish our mission of “Doing the Most Good”, it is also an
opportunity for a lifelong relationship of support.
Recruitment and Responsibilities
Social Service Program/Corps Site
• Identify volunteers through online recruitment, flyers, emails, news releases to
local media, and last year’s volunteer lists, as well as by talking with DHQ’s
Development Department
• Provide overview of The Salvation Army and population served
• Provide site tour
• Informal interview with Executive Director, Officer or designee
1. Determine role
2. Determine if it’s a good match
• Provide oversight / supervision for volunteer
• Ensure tracking of volunteer hours
1. Have volunteer sign-­‐‐in at the beginning of every shift
a) Utilize form provided by development department
2. Send in all volunteer sign-­‐‐in sheets to DHQ on a monthly basis so we can
add them to our database and keep them informed of recent news, as well
as upcoming volunteer opportunities
3c. Overview and Best Practices Guide -­‐‐ Volunteers

Development Department
• Recruit and secure volunteers through online recruitment channels and refer
them to the appropriate units throughout the division.
• Contact Amy Hudson at DHQ for assistance with volunteer outreach and
recruitment. (562) 264-­‐‐3826 / Amy.Hudson@usw.salvationarmy.org
General tips for success
The best tip is to start early! Recruiting volunteers for the holidays is a yearlong process!
Don’t wait until October to find Kettle bell ringers. Use the monthly action plan
provided in section 3B to develop and maintain those volunteer relationships.
Look into these pools for volunteer recruiting ideas:
• DHQ employees (and their friends/family – including children!).
• Churches, service clubs, music groups, children and their families, or other
groups required to do community service like high schools. A spreadsheet of
local churches, schools and service clubs in your area can be found at the end of this
section.
• People with musical talent and music groups should be emphasized. It has
proven to work and the crowd enjoys their music. Consider contacting
schools and suggesting they make groups available, in exchange for them
offering their students extra credit.
• Corps should keep track and continuous contact with volunteers who have
volunteered throughout the year, so that they may have a list of volunteers
towards kettle season to recruit.
3c. Overview and Best Practices Guide -­‐‐ Volunteers

• Each corps could do a local volunteer and job fair to gain momentum. They
may ask local corporations, companies and schools to participate.
• Online recruitment is abundant, but volunteers must be scheduled right
away before their interest and availability wanes. Recommended sites:
o Volunteermatch.org
o Idealist.org
o Craigslist
o Meetup.com
o Onlinvolunteering.org
o Yelp.com
o LA Works
o christianvolunteering.org
3c. Overview and Best Practices Guide -­‐‐ Volunteers

Support and Supervision of Volunteers
You have your volunteers now the work can begin! It is our job to make sure
volunteers feels well supported and supervised. Here are some steps to ensure
proper supervision in place:
Step 1: Define and communicate clear expectations.
This should be done during training and orientation at the beginning of the
season. Make sure the volunteer clearly understands the following:
• The Salvation Army’s mission
• Proper procedures and codes of conduct
• The volunteer’s role and responsibility and The Salvation Army’s
responsibility toward the volunteer.
• Who the volunteer will report to. Create a culture that encourages
questions.
Step 2: Guide and Support Volunteers.
Guiding and supporting means giving volunteers:
• Instructions
• Information
• Direction
• Freedom
• Feedback
• Resources they need to
• Corrections
perform their functions well.
Things to remember while guiding and supporting your volunteers:
• If you take care of the person, they will take care of the task.
• Provide guidance the way that works for the volunteer. Remember each
volunteer is different and all have their own preferred supervision style.
• Support, don’t control volunteer efforts. Too much control can stifle
enthusiasm.
• Supervising volunteers is about providing directions and resources, not
directing or bossing.
Consequences of Poor Supervision:
• Volunteers won’t want to come back and will most likely tell others of
their experience therefore effecting The Salvations Army’s image.
• The volunteer’s performance will not be at their best if they feel under
supported or supervised.
3d. Support and Supervision of Volunteers

• The volunteer won’t feel safe or appreciated.
• The experience the volunteer provides the clients could be negatively
impacted.
Guidelines to follow when reprimanding or giving constructive criticism:
• Don’t wait and give several criticisms to a volunteer at once. Focus your
discussion on the one item that has been brought to your attention.
• Be specific. Give the volunteer examples of when they have acted in a way
that is contrary to your expectations and the procedures set down for
them during orientation.
• Remember that you are giving them feedback on specific actions. Do not
comment on the volunteer’s attitudes or motivations, but rather on his or
her specific behavior.
• Put the reprimand in perspective. If the volunteer has been an asset in
other areas in the past, remind them of that good performance and let
them know you can still move forward in a positive manner.
• Set a time to once again meet and determine if the behavior has changed.
This will give you an opportunity to give positive feedback if the
volunteer has amended their actions or take further steps if they have not.
Source: McCurley, Steve and Sue Vineyard, Handling Problem Volunteers
(Downers Grove: Heritage Arts) 1988
Suggested ways to open the conversation:
• “I have something I’d like to discuss with you”
• “I would like to talk about what just happened. Do you have a few
minutes?”
• “I think we have different perceptions about__________________.”
• I’d like to see if we might reach a better understanding about
_______________________.”
Step 3: Ensure that volunteers feel rewarded and
recognized.
Volunteer recognition is important in order to:
• Create a positive environment
• Provide structure
3d. Support and Supervision of Volunteers

• Treat volunteers well
• Ensure their work is personally rewarding
Recognition Tips and ideas:
• Make sure the volunteers understand the meaning in the work they are
doing.
• Ask volunteers for ideas and feedback throughout the season.
• Send a thank you card. Tell the volunteer the outcome of the program
and how their help impacted The Salvation Army’s efforts.
• Send a framed photograph of the event they participated in.
• Host a sit down lunch or BBQ picnic for the volunteers and their families.
Present certificates to all volunteers and special awards for standout
volunteers.
• Give stories of standout volunteers to Amy Hudson at DHQ
(amy.hudson@usw.salvationarmy.org) to post online or send to the New
Frontier.
3d. Support and Supervision of Volunteers

HOLIDAY VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
The Salvation Army
Southern California Division
Join Us in “Doing the Most Good” for Your Community
Red Kettles
- Volunteer as a Bell Ringer
- Support kettles on your way into local businesses
- Online Red Kettle
Warehouse Distribution of food and toys
- Help set-­‐‐up or breakdown at distribution events
- Assemble and match gifts to their recipients
- Pack food boxes
- Organize toys and clothes
Food Drive
- Individuals, organizations, schools, businesses
and service clubs can hold food drives and collect
food on The Salvation Army’s behalf
Toy Drives
- Individuals, organizations, schools, businesses and service clubs can hold toy
drives and collect new toys on The Salvation Army’s behalf
Angel Tree
- Angel tags on Christmas trees, pick a child, buy for that child, return gift and tag
for distribution to recipient
Adopt-A-Family
- Receive information regarding a local family in need, including sizes of clothing
and other preferences, and then give accordingly
- You can also support the program by giving grocery store gift certificates, new
clothing, toys or even monetary donations for The Salvation Army to select items
on your behalf (often at discounted bulk rates)
For further information and/or to volunteer, call our volunteer coordinator Amy
Hudson at (562)264-­‐‐3826 or amy.hudson@usw.salvationarmy.org

[Insert Date]
Dear [Insert Name],
The holiday season can be a time of great joy. For The Salvation Army, it represents the
best time of year to reach out to those in need and I am contacting you today to help us
do just that. As a volunteer for The Salvation Army this holiday season, you will play an
integral part in making a difference in the lives of those less fortunate in our community.
Please consider volunteering your time with The Salvation Army [Insert program or
corps].
There are different ways of contributing your time and efforts during this special time of
year. Here are some of the ways you can help:
• Volunteering at a Salvation Army program – Locally, we are in particular need
of [XXXX] and [XXXX] from volunteers.
• Volunteering as a Bell Ringer – You may volunteer on your own or bring a
friend or coworker!
• Volunteer with a group as Bell Ringers – This is an excellent way to take pride
in your club/organization/company and directly help your community achieve
its potential!
• Volunteer – By adopting a family or taking part in a food and toy distribution
this holiday season.
As you may know, 82 cents of every dollar donated to The Salvation Army goes directly
to support community service programs. The Salvation Army was among the top 10 best
charities for financial integrity in the United States as ranked by the Non Profit Times,
2014 Top 100 List. All donations remain in communities where they originate so, with
every donation you will see the direct impact you are making within your community.
What’s more, your volunteer efforts help The Salvation Army serve millions of people
nationally through a myriad of services all year long, including Christmas programs in
which the famous Red Kettles are a centerpiece, helping those in need at year-­‐‐end with
toys, meals and other assistance. A few hours of your time can make a huge impact in
your community. Thank you for your support.
Blessings,
[Insert Name]
[Insert Contact Information]

[Insert Date]
[Insert Name]
[Insert Position/Company]
[Insert Street Address]
[Insert City, State, Zip]
Dear [Volunteer Name],
On behalf of The Salvation Army in Southern California, we would like to thank
you for your dedication to [insert program or corps] by volunteering your time
this holiday season. You truly made a difference in the lives of [men women and
children] and by donating your time during such a special time as the Christmas
season make your efforts all the more appreciated.
Volunteers with your passion and dedication are hard to come by. We are
looking forward to having you return as volunteer at the [insert program or
corps] in the near future.
Sincerely yours,
[Insert name]
[Insert title]
“The Salvation Army stands for hope; that, when every other light is extinguished, and every other star has gone down,
this one gleam shines steadily and clearly in the darkened sky.”
-William Booth, Founder 1904

Volunteers
Required Paperwork Explanation
Processing short-­‐‐term volunteers is a much different, more streamlined process
than processing paid kettle workers.
Holiday volunteers – such as volunteering as a bell ringer, serving meals at a
Thanksgiving dinner, or passing out toys at a toy drive – only need to complete a
simple application. This simplified process will allow you to collect important
information and signatures, while avoiding cumbersome barriers to successfully
recruiting and signing up volunteers.
In the following pages, you’ll find the only volunteer paperwork required for
short-­‐‐term, holiday volunteers. (Please note – long-­‐‐term, ongoing volunteers,
such as those who provide after-­‐‐school tutoring daily or weekly, must undergo a
more comprehensive vetting process. For more information on that process,
contact DHQ’s Human Resources Department.)
Required documents for short-­‐‐term volunteers include:
• Individuals – one page application
• Groups – Volunteer Group Leader Statement
Please remember that short-­‐‐term holiday volunteers should never be left alone
with clients and/or children. Always provide supervision.
When recruiting unsupervised bell ringer volunteers, please use your best
judgment. Previous volunteers, groups (such as trusted businesses and church
groups), families and TSA staff make great bell ringers.
Happy volunteering!
3h. Volunteer Paperwork

Public Relations
Table of Contents
• Introduction
• Why Do News Media Exist/Why it is Important?
• What Do Media Want from Us?
• Getting to Know Your Local News Media
• How Can I Tell if I Have a Newsworthy Story/Program/Event?
• Media Etiquette
• Key Messages
• The Interview
• Various Forms of Communication Overview (Email/Media Alert/Press
Release/Pitch Letter)
• Customizable General Press Release Template
• Customizable General Media Alert Template
• Customizable Adopt-A-Family /Food and Toy Drive Press Release
Template
• Customizable Angel Tree Press Release
• Customizable Corporate Food Drive Press Release
• Facebook Best Practices

Public Relations
Introduction
The “PR Strategies” section of this toolkit is designed to empower corps and
programs to make greater strides with the variety of Christmas season activities
The Salvation Army is known for. Although these documents are aimed to
inform and educate, it is no replacement for the assistance the Marketing and
Communications Department at DHQ is willing and able to provide.
Please do not hesitate to ask this department for assistance. We are including this
brief tutorial regarding PR and media basics not in lieu of our efforts, but in
addition to them. The goal is to streamline the process as much as possible
during the busiest time of year for us all.
This portion of the toolkit can help you formalize concepts and highlight
elements of upcoming holiday events with regard to media that we can help you
bring to fruition. To that end, we have included several media alert and press
release templates in this section. Please note that a couple of these suggested
customizable releases correspond to other sections in this toolkit (such as
food/toy drives.) We encourage you to use these templates to start your media
materials, and then work with our department to flesh them out, finalize, and
pitch to local media.
It’s a fact of life that both the general public and the media at large, think of The
Salvation Army as a holiday season charity. Instead of fighting this inclination,
this media and public relations primer’s goal is to help you capitalize on it.
Thanks for “doing the most good” with regard to media!
4a. PR Introduction

Public Relations
Why News Media Exist and Why They’re
Important to You
It may sound warm and fuzzy to suggest that the news media exist in order to
educate and inform the general public … that’s because it’s only half the story. In
reality, media exist to make money for corporate owners.
Here in Los Angeles, we live in the nation’s second largest media market and to
purchase advertising of any kind, whether it is television, radio or print, is cost-­‐prohibitive.
That is why access to news media is all the more important.
How else can you reach tens of thousands of people with your story? How can
you help promote the image and mission of The Salvation Army in the most cost-­‐effective
way? News media may be that answer.
To repeat, the news media are important because they’re:
1. Free
2. Tell our story
3. Help us reach a large, diverse audience
4. And – best of all – serve as a third-­‐‐party endorsement
The following documents are designed to help you maximize this tremendous
tool.
4b. Why Do News Media Exist/Why Is It Important?

Public Relations
What Do Media Want From Us?
As long as the news is a product designed to attract advertisers, the reporting
staff will have to rely on us to give them tips of the best stories we can find;
the kind of stories that hold an audience for their advertisers.
What do they want? First and foremost -­‐‐ compelling stories that keep the
audience focused on the product long enough to suit the advertisers! Any
teacher of story telling theory will tell you that all good stories contain the
following elements:
1. Introduction
2. Rising and Falling Action
3. Complication
4. Crisis
5. Resolution
Our holiday-­‐‐themed events such as kettles, food drives and distributions, toy
drives and Adopt-­‐‐A-­‐‐Family campaigns are specifically well positioned in the
“soft” news category.
Ø Hard news is the timely reporting on current events, incidents, etc.
Ø Soft news is less time sensitive but also an examination of headline
issues often providing background analysis.
Ø Op-­‐‐Ed is when the staff or an outside expert expresses an opinion on a
subject of interest.
Ø A feature is an in-­‐‐depth exploration of a subject in the news by looking
at other aspects; people, organizations, companies, etc. Features are
usually developed over time.
Bottom line: the news media need us to help them deliver a good product
that interests their audience. The best way to give that to them is through a
compelling story! More on how to do that later …
4c. What Do Media What From Us?

Public Relations
Getting to Know Your Local News Media
This is good advice any time of the year, but a good relationship during the
Christmas season will go a long way toward opening doors to media. If you
haven’t done so already, it is a good thing to take a close look at all the media
outlets in your community and then compile a list of all the reporting staff
who you think could be interested in Army stories and information.
The Marketing and PR team can help you with this task.
• Keep an eye out for the city reporters who covers issues related to
poverty, substance abuse or homelessness. Also, make a note of who
writes the religion pieces. Both of these reporters will be glad to have the
Army’s perspective.
• Put all the calendar editors on your list too. Each paper, television and
radio station has a community calendar where they list the activities in the
area. Be sure to let them know all the important dates on the Army’s local
calendar.
• Take note of the reporter who covers the social scene and charity
happenings in your city. They’ll want to know about your volunteer
recognition event or annual dinner.
• Make sure to include the tiny little weekly papers, local cable shows, local
morning shows, and radio public affairs programs. Keep in mind that they
have a loyal following and fewer staff. They are always starved for
content, so pay them lots of attention.
• Also, don’t forget about the reporters who do the “feel-­‐‐good” stories. We
have so many stories of change, hope, opportunity, and renewal! This is
what the feature reporters want from us, so be sure to put them on your
4d. Getting to Know Your Local Media

list. What better feel good story is there than a family getting a much
needed box of food and toys for their children during Christmas.
Any time you have the opportunity to get to know a reporter in person, do it and
ask them what they’re working on and if you can help. Find out what kinds of
stories they want to do and make sure to follow up when you think you’ve got
something they’ll like. The reporter you may speak to in late summer may be the
same reporter looking for a holiday-­‐‐themed story in December.
• Email local members of the media with a comment on a piece they did or
article they wrote. Thank them for the information!
• Find local media outlets and reporters on social media. Follow their pages
and when they write about your programs thank them with a tweet on
Twitter or by tagging them in a Facebook post that shares their coverage.
• Send out a letter of introduction with your business card and invite
members to visit the Army for a tour.
• Write a short letter about your areas of expertise and let your local media
know that if they need a spokesperson on hunger, addiction, domestic
violence, etc., you can help.
• Have a yearly open house and invite your local media to attend.
• Invite the local media professionals to serve at events as volunteers
serving food, distributing Christmas toys, signing up families for
Thanksgiving boxes, etc.
• On holidays or on a slow news weekend, send a basket of fruit or a plate
of brownies to the newsroom with note from you wishing them well.
• Ask your board members to introduce you to any members of the news
media that they may know.
• And don’t forget to partner with DHQ’s Marketing and Communications
department for assistance!
4d. Getting to Know Your Local Media

Public Relations
How Can I Tell if I Have a Newsworthy
Story/Program/Event?
Every story needs to have 2 or more of the following “layers”:
• Human interest
• New take on an old story
• Changed lives
• Large numbers
• Visually appealing
Each one of the aforementioned bullet points is an element contained within every one
of our toolkit programs. Any of the following may trigger an idea for a story. Use
these as a way to build a compelling story -­‐‐ with plenty of layers – about the work of
the Army:
• Are any of your employees or volunteers former clients of your ministry who
received holiday time assistance in the past?
• Do you have a unique program this holiday season that is not being offered by any
other church or social service agency in the community?
• Is there an important milestone being reached by one of your programs or
someone in your program?
• Do you have a program or person that can help illustrate an important news
story?
• Are you receiving requests for a specific type of help that may indicate a trend?
• Letters from children to Santa
• Letters or messages from clients asking about the details of one of your holiday
season programs
• Do you have a program or service that demonstrates cooperation with another
church or social service agency? Churches and non-­‐‐profits all pulling together
during the Holiday season is a strong media pitch
• Is there anything happening at your unit that would tug at somebody’s
heartstrings (kids, seniors, kittens)? Media outlets are especially sensitive to these
“angles” during the holiday season
• Do you consider yourself or one of your staff members an expert on an issue being
discussed in the news in your community?
4e. How Can I Tell If I Have A Newsworthy Story/Program/Event?

Public Relations
Media Etiquette
What should I expect when I interact with media? If you put yourself in the
reporters’ shoes, media etiquette is mostly common sense. And remember,
the majority of media contacts you experience during the Christmas season
are going to be positive. If they aren’t, if they are the result of some kind of
negative story angle, please contact DHQ’s Marketing and Communications
department immediately. Otherwise, here are some important points to keep
in mind we believe you will find helpful.
If approached by your local newspaper on a holiday-­‐‐themed, local story …
• Talk to them. This is an opportunity for you to tell your story, publicize
your specific Adopt-­‐‐A-­‐‐Family, Angel Tree, Toy and Food drive program
and reach new audiences. Just make sure to schedule the interview for a
later time so you take time to prepare (if possible – however, your first
priority should be meeting reporter’s deadlines)
• Find out what they want. What specific information, material do they
need?
• Ask them what their deadline is. Make sure to meet their deadline, if not
respond well in advance of their deadline.
• Be honest. If you don’t have the information, it’s ok to say so. Offer to find
out and follow up with the reporter promptly.
• If you don’t have what the reporter’s looking for, help them find another
source. Even if that means leading them to another charity for a story.
You’ll have the satisfaction of being helpful and media-­‐‐friendly, and get a
reputation for being a good source.
If you approach media …
• Know who to talk to. Read the paper and take note of who covers what
and develop a media contact list. Some larger papers will have different
4f. Media Etiquette

eporters covering city news, special events, business news, local
personalities, etc,
• Use tact. When you call an editor or reporter, the first thing you should
ask is if he / she is too busy to talk. If so, offer to call back at a more
convenient time.
• Get to the point. Introduce yourself and give them a quick run down on
your holiday program. Then ask if you can email or fax more information.
(Be sure to ask for the correct spelling of the person’s first and last name
and the email address or fax number he / she would like you to use.)
• Be careful about calling them back to see that they received your info.
This is a pet peeve of many reporters. Once they know about your story,
they’ll let you know if they’re interested in covering it. Oftentimes, they
don’t know until the day of the event whether or not they’ll cover it.
Breaking news always takes precedence. On the day of your event, it’s
okay to call to see if you’re on the list of things they plan to cover that day.
• Know what you’re talking about. Have all the information you need at
your fingertips. Editors/reporters will want to know who, what, where,
when, why and how.
• Be prepared. If media outlets come to cover your story, have some
information for them. There’s no guarantee that the editor or reporter you
spoke with is the one coming to cover your story; and there’s no
guarantee that the editor or reporter you spoke with passed the
information along.
• Thank them for their time. If they do come, take the time to send them a
quick thank you note.
4f. Media Etiquette

Public Relations
Key Messages
Key messages should contain the most important information you want the
public to know about a specific topic.
They should be:
• credible
• supportable with facts
• succinct
Phrase your messages with a general audience – not just the reporter – in
mind. Remember these messages will be heard / read by people who are
potential supporters. And keep in mind, just as the news rooms across
Southern California are thinking about Christmas-­‐‐themed stories, so too is the
general public. This is an excellent opportunity to incorporate broader
messages about The Salvation Army within your messages in an attempt to
encourage news media and the public at large to begin thinking about The
Salvation Army as a 365 day a year charity.
Also, messages typically come in threes. Studies show that people are only
able to take in three bits of new information during any communications
exchange. So, stick to three messages and then repeat yourself until you know
that you’ve gotten your message across!
4g. Key Messages

Public Relations
The Interview
A good exercise before any media interview is to anticipate the questions
you might be asked. Think about how to use your key messages to respond to
those questions.
Interview Tips:
• Be prepared. Remember that each question you answer presents an
opportunity for you to tell your story. Prepare key holiday messages in
advance of any scheduled media activity and work them into the
interview. Repeat them if necessary!
• Say “The Salvation Army” every chance you get. Don’t just say the name
of your particular program or corps. People identify with The Salvation
Army, not necessarily Bell Shelter or the Siemon Family Youth and
Community Center. Name recognition is extremely important! And our
name brand is THE SALVATION ARMY.
• Be brief. Speak slowly and clearly and speak in soundbites – 10-­‐‐second
answers.
• Include the red shield. If the interview can’t be set up in front of a
backdrop with a red shield, wear your uniform, put on a Salvation Army
jacket, t-­‐‐shirt or pin.
• Remember – Odds are the overwhelming majority of your media contacts
during the Holiday season are going to be positive and of the “feel good”
variety. If, for some unforeseen reason, there is some negative media
attention please refer all inquiries to the Marketing and Public Relations
Department at DHQ.
4h. The Interview

Public Relations
Various Forms of Communication Overview
Email / Media Alert / Press Release / Pitch
Letter
How do I contact the news media about a Holiday season story / program / event?
This is the same answer as any contact with any program or story you may want to
garner some media attention for. These days, much of your communication with
reporters will happen via email. That’s the way business is done in most newsrooms, and
everywhere else for that matter. Keep in mind that newsroom staff may not be willing to
open attachments, so your media alert / news release / pitch letter will have to be in the
body of your email. Don’t bother to use fancy fonts or graphics. Keep it basic and make
sure it’s brief.
If you plan to write up a story tip into one of the traditional formats, make sure to
provide the basic news elements of “who, what, where, when, why, how.” See template
included in this section.
Again, the Marketing and PR team at DHQ will be happy to take the information
available and create these documents, but we believe it will be helpful for you to have the
templates at the ready.
Media alert / advisory – Alerts the media to an event. It lists the basic “who, what,
where, when, why, how” in outline format. See template included in this section.
Press Release – Announces programs, events. Besides containing the basic “who,
what, where, when, why, how,” like the media alert, the press release uses a
paragraph format to provide more detail as well as quotes from participants. See
template included in this section.
Note re: included customizable templates: Please feel free to tweak the included
templates any way you see fit. The templates are meant to help, not to restrict or prevent
individual creativity. Also – we’ve included Robert Brennan’s media relations
“masthead” at the top, however, you should remove this and create one of your own.
Keep in mind that it doesn’t have to be fancy. You may opt to simply include the red
shield logo and your typed-­‐‐out contact information.
4i. Forms of Communication

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
CATCHY HEADLINE HERE
More Informative Sub-headline Here
(Insert city name and date of release) – Body copy: Should include the same
information that would be used in a media alert, only presented in paragraph
form. As opposed to a media alert, the press release is designed to give more
detailed information and hopefully include purposeful and useful quotes from
important persons engaged in the upcoming event.
Conclude with one paragraph description of the work of the Army in your area.
About The Salvation Army: The Salvation Army, an evangelical part of the universal Christian
church established in 1865, has been supporting those in need in His name without
discrimination for 135 years in the United States. More than 35 million Americans receive
assistance from The Salvation Army each year through the broadest array of social services that
range from providing food for the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled,
outreach to the elderly and ill, clothing and shelter to the homeless and opportunities for
underprivileged children. About 82 cents of every dollar raised is used to support those services
in 5,000 communities nationwide. For more information, go to www.salvationarmy-socal.org
# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Today’s Date
CATCHY HEADLINE HERE
More Informative Sub-headline Here
What:
Where:
When:
Who:
Why:
Visuals:
Brief description.
Address or general location.
Date and time, including best media “window.”
Event sponsor and / or beneficiary.
What is the purpose - try to use a good news hook.
What will the reporter see or hear at the event.
Interviews: List individuals available to speak with media (program directors,
program participants, etc.)
Contact: If the event is open to the public, who should they contact.
Conclude with one paragraph description of the work of the Army in your area.
About The Salvation Army: The Salvation Army, an evangelical part of the universal Christian
church established in 1865, has been supporting those in need in His name without
discrimination for 135 years in the United States. More than 35 million Americans receive
assistance from The Salvation Army each year through the broadest array of social services that
range from providing food for the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled,
outreach to the elderly and ill, clothing and shelter to the homeless and opportunities for
underprivileged children. About 82 cents of every dollar raised is used to support those services
in 5,000 communities nationwide. For more information, go to www.salvationarmy-socal.org
# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
THE SALVATION ARMY OFFERS REPRIEVE FOR MORE THAN
(insert number) FAMILIES FROM ONE OF THE TOUGHEST
HOLIDAY SEASONS
Festive Holiday Party to Shower (insert number) Children with Toys and Provide
Much Needed Food Vouchers for Deserving Families
Los Angeles, California (DATE) On Saturday, December (insert date), The Salvation
Army’s (insert community) Corps will distribute grocery vouchers and toys to more than
(insert number) deserving families as part of its “Adopt-A-Family” holiday drive.
On-site food and beverages will be provided as well as games and activities for kids of
all ages. Part of The Salvation Army’s Adopt-A-Family program, this food and toy
distribution is the result of many weeks of effort on the part of Salvation Army staff and
volunteers. Families in need have registered in advance and based on the particular
dynamics of each family, food for a festive holiday dinner and an age appropriate toy for
each member of the family have been provided.
Corps Officer (insert name) has been at the (insert community) Corps/Community
Center since (insert date) and has never experienced such a need as this holiday season
represents. “To be able to provide food for a family’s table and a smile on a child’s face
with a brand new toy is what serving in The Salvation Army is all about.”
(Insert Day of the week) distribution event will also include a special guest. (Insert
names and titles, such as government official, local sports personality etc.) will also be
on hand between (insert hours) to help give out the Adopt-A-Family food and toys. To
find out how you can still donate food, toys or money to expand this program contact
(insert name and phone number).
About Corps/Program: Insert.
About The Salvation Army: The Salvation Army, an evangelical part of the universal Christian
church established in 1865, has been supporting those in need in His name without
discrimination for 135 years in the United States. More than 35 million Americans receive
assistance from The Salvation Army each year through the broadest array of social services that
range from providing food for the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled,
outreach to the elderly and ill, clothing and shelter to the homeless and opportunities for
underprivileged children. About 82 cents of every dollar raised is used to support those services
in 5,000 communities nationwide. For more information, go to www.salvationarmy-socal.org
# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
THE SALVATION ARMY ANGEL TREES SPROUT
IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Gift-giving Program Helps Ease Worry for Financially-Strapped Local Families
Insert City (Insert Date) – Once again The Salvation Army is planting its Salvation
Army Angel Trees at (Insert location) in order to help families ease financial worries
during Christmas. The Salvation Army Angel Tree program gives donors an easy way to
provide new, unopened toys and gifts to kids who might otherwise go without.
“We don’t want Christmas to be a time where parents have to choose between paying
the heating bill or buying toys for their kids,” said (Insert corps officer/program director
name, title). “Having Salvation Army Angel Trees in (insert location of your angel trees)
eases the worry for many families and means thousands of children will have a present
on Christmas morning.”
From November XX through December XX (insert participating locations) will display
“Angel Trees” decorated with paper angel tags with guidelines for guests to select the
gender, age and type of gift, such as a toy or clothing, for a needy child in their local
area. New, unwrapped gifts can be brought to (insert location) by Dec. XX for
distribution by The Salvation Army.
Originating in Lynchburg, Virginia in 1979, The Salvation Army Angel Tree program
began through a partnership with a local mall to set up Christmas trees with angel tags,
each representing a child in need whose family was being served by The Salvation
Army. That first year, the Angel Tree program gave nearly 700 children a joyful
Christmas morning. Twenty-eight years later, the program is now in nearly every
community in the United States and has helped ease the holiday stress of millions of
families struggling to make ends meet while placing a Christmas smile on the faces of
their children.
About The Salvation Army: The Salvation Army, an evangelical part of the universal Christian
church originally established in 1865, has been supporting those in need in His name without
discrimination for 135 years in the United States. Over 31 million Americans receive assistance
from The Salvation Army each year through the broadest array of social services that range from
providing food for the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled, outreach to
the elderly and ill, clothing and shelter to the homeless and opportunities for underprivileged
children. About 82 cents of every dollar raised is used to support those services in 5,000
communities nationwide. For more information, go to www.salvationarmy-socal.org.
# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
CITY OF “(Insert City)” EMPLOYEES LEND A HAND TO THE LESS
FORTUNATE
Human Resources Collects Food Staples for Local Salvation Army Corps
(Insert City), Calif. (Insert DATE) - This morning, representatives from the City of
(Insert your Corps’s location) delivered more than (insert number) pounds of much
need canned goods and non-perishable food items to The Salvation Army’s (insert
location) Corps located at (insert your address).
“We are all deeply touched by the spirit of generosity exhibited by the good people who
work in city government here in (insert city),” said Corps officer (insert name).
The Salvation Army’s (Insert City) Corps and Community Center provides a regularly
scheduled food distribution program but, like so many non-profit organizations in the
present difficult economy, it is experiencing a large spike in people coming to its doors
seeking assistance.
(Insert corporate partner’s volunteer name) was also on hand and helped distribute
some of the food as it was delivered. “It was quite gratifying handing a much-needed
bag of food to a local resident who we learned has been unemployed for three months.”
(Insert Last Name) said. “When I returned to (insert organization), I shared the
experience with a number of employees. It was amazing to see the generosity of our
employees placed into action so quickly right before our eyes.” (Tweak quote as
needed).
The Salvation Army in (City) continues to rely on the generosity of both public and
private entities to continue the organization’s work of providing help to those in need. If
you would like to volunteer, donate food, or give a monetary gift, please call (insert
name, number.)
About Corps/Community Center: (Insert)
About The Salvation Army: The Salvation Army, an evangelical part of the universal Christian
church established in 1865, has been supporting those in need in His name without
discrimination for 135 years in the United States. More than 35 million Americans receive
assistance from The Salvation Army each year through the broadest array of social services that
range from providing food for the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled,
outreach to the elderly and ill, clothing and shelter to the homeless and opportunities for
underprivileged children. About 82 cents of every dollar raised is used to support those services
in 5,000 communities nationwide. For more information, go to www.salvationarmy-socal.org
# # #

Facebook Best Practices
When and how many times to post each day?
• We recommend posting once a day, unless there is breaking news or a big event
happening -­‐‐ then it is okay to post multiple times a day (however, try not to post
more than three times, as it is possible for Facebook to start marking your posts
as spam, which will result in fewer and fewer individuals who follow you,
actually seeing your content).
• We generally recommend posting in the morning between 9AM and 10AM.
What to post?
• Know your story: Create a unique voice that brings your story to life in a
compelling & authentic way. Keep posts, short, sweet and succinct!
• Be timely: Are there any holidays or breaking news stories that can be tied into
your organization’s work? People are more likely to engage with your updates if
you are talking about things that are relevant to them.
• Know your audience: What content is important to them? Stories of triumph,
fundraisers, volunteer events, etc.
• Know your goals: What kind of relationships are you trying to form—strategize
posts accordingly.
• Make it visual! Use photos and videos to accompany your posts as much as
possible. Photos will generate 120% and videos 100% more engagement than the
average post, respectively.
• Create a conversation: Ask questions to your followers or ask them to “like”
your post if they think, “x, y, and z” (of course always avoid controversial
subjects!). Reply to those who comment or post on your wall, make them feel
part of your online community.
4o. Facebook Best Practices

Grow your community!
• Start with who you know! Promote on flyers with “follow on facebook”
buttons/links. Also include “follow on facebook” buttons in email outreach to
donors and volunteers.
• Engage others. When applicable tag other organizations in your posts or share
content directly to their page.
10 Simple Ideas for Social Media Sharing
1. Offer a sneak peek of an upcoming newsletter, event, or program.
2. Show what goes on behind the scenes at your office.
3. Introduce a member of your staff.
4. Report from the scene of your work or event.
5. Share photos of your volunteers in action.
6. Connect your work to a news story, trend, or meme.
7. Ask a trivia question related to your cause.
8. Share a testimonial from a beneficiary or supporter.
9. Choose a “fan of the day” and give them a shout-­‐‐out.
10. Celebrate a success story.
4o. Facebook Best Practices

CHRISTMAS
CAMPAIGNS
No season is as special to The Salvation Army as Christmas. It is the time in which The Salvation Army gives back
to our community in a big way. Public contributions to The Salvation Army Red Kettles enable our organization to
continue its year-round efforts serving those who would otherwise be forgotten.
Thousands of families in the Southern California area struggle to provide Christmas gifts and toys to their children.
The Salvation Army, working collaboratively with our community, provides these families with a wonderful
Christmas. This year, we invite you to join us in continuing this tradition by partnering with us on one of the many
Christmas-focused opportunities.
Bell Ringing at our Red Kettles
The Salvation Army is widely known for its outreach during the Christmas season. Since 1891, our iconic red kettles
have been a familiar Salvation Army tradition. Money raised through these kettles provides much needed funding for
The Salvation Army’s free programs throughout the year, and we depend on local volunteers to ring bells at various
kettle locations to encourage these donations.
Volunteers are needed Monday-Saturday in a variety of locations throughout the community. Businesses and
organizations can sign up to ring for shifts, whole days, or for an entire season.There are so many ways to make this
an exciting event for your company: bring posters, decorate Christmas hats or sweaters, sing carols or bring your
instruments to get holiday shoppers in the Christmas Spirit! Get creative!
Adopt-A-Kettle
Sponsor a Kettle this Christmas season with a flat donation or commit to a matching gift challenge dollar-for- dollar!
Challenge kettle donors with the opportunity to double their gift by sponsoring a kettle with a match up to a dollar
level that you choose. The Salvation Army’s Red Kettles are one of the most highly recognized symbols of benevolence
during the Christmas season. A great opportunity for your business to benefit from that visibility, and support our
community at the same time. We will display your business or organization the kettle stand letting everyone know
you’ve sponsored that kettle and/or matching the gifts. Take this commitment to the next level by encouraging your
employees to ring the bell at your sponsored kettle.
Kettle Competitions
Invite a little friendly competition to the Christmas season by challenging another local business or organization
to a Red Kettle Challenge. Competitions must be at least one full day long, but can also last as many days as can be
covered by your team/division/company! A prize will be awarded to the Red Kettle Champion!
Host an Angel Tree or Toy Drive
The Angel Tree and Toy Drive Program brings the joy of Christmas to children from families in need with the help of
generous sponsors. Gifts purchased by sponsors and their employees are given by The Salvation Army to parents who
may then experience the pride of providing gifts for their children and the treasure of sharing in their excitement.
- For Angel Trees, your company supplies a Christmas Tree and we provide personalized Angels Tree tags, each
representing a child in need.
- For Toy Drives, we provide a toy collection bin to be placed in your lobby or other visible area.

POINT OF SALE
CAMPAIGN
The Point of Sale (POS) toolkit offers retail
partners a creative and modern way to engage
customers in supporting The Salvation Army
in-store. This campaign can be used year-round,
and/or can be presented as an alternative to the
traditional red kettle campaign at Christmas when
retailers have a non-solicitation policy. The toolkit
includes materials that support a programmed
pin-pad ask, paper pin-up sales, or DipJar (a 3G
credit card technology perfect for retailers that
don’t want to transact cash). Creative materials
include: conveyer belt stickers, paper pin-ups with
varied messaging that conveys the Army’s impact,
floor stickers at the register, window cling posters,
and change drop stickers. A full toolkit including
order instructions and engagement tips will be
released from THQ CRD department in late
summer of 2016. If you need more information in
the meantime, please contact:
Jennifer.Walker@usw.salvationarmy.org

A new, branded 3G Point of Sale technology that
makes it easy for donors and retailers to support
The Salvation Army.
THE DONOR
• “Dips” their credit card to make a secure donation to The Salvation Army
in the denomination shown on the screen.
• Sees the machine light up and hears the bell ringing noise to confirm
the transaction.
• Receives a thank you from the associate
(and a sticker at participating locations).
• Sees “DPJ *The Salvation Army” on their
credit card statement.
THE RETAILER
• Agrees to have TSA branded Dip Jar(s)
inside their business at the purchase desk(s).
• Plugs in the unit.
• Unit connects to Verizon 3G signal.
• No exchange of money.
• No accounting or reporting.
• Service associates are briefed on the
program and encourage giving.

DipJar FAQs
• Will customer credit card information be secure?
Yes. DipJars encrypt credit card information immediately upon card dip and transmit
it via SSL connection to our servers. We operate under the highest standards of PCI-
DSS credit card security compliance.
• How does DipJar connect? Do I need a Wi-Fi network or wiring?
DipJar uses a 3G connection to communicate with our servers. Besides plugging the
DipJar into a power outlet, no other wiring or physical set-up is necessary.
• Is using DipJar as easy as you say?
Absolutely! You dip your credit or debit card into the DipJar and pull it out.That’s it.
You’ve given the fixed donation amount emblazoned on the front of the DipJar to
The Salvation Army!
• How am I charged for my DipJar giving?
DipJar amounts are preset — $1 for most locations — so you’ll always know how
much you’re tipping or donating when you dip your debit or credit card. All DipJar
transactions will appear on your bill with the tag “DPJ” along with additional information
about the recipient store or cause (e.g. “DPJ *The Salvation Army”).
• I dipped by accident — how do I request a refund?
Send an email to support@dipjar.com with your name, the date of the accidental dip,
and the last four digits of the card you used, and we’ll issue a refund.

The Salvation Army
(Corps/Program) · (Address) · (Phone) · (Email) · www.salvationarmy-socal.org
[Insert date]
[Insert organization name]
[Insert address]
Dear [insert name],
The "miracle" of Christmas is repeated over and over again through the joy of caring and sharing.
The Salvation Army's Christmas Kettle Campaign helps the surrounding [insert city] community we mutually
serve by funding programs like food pantries, after-school tutoring and youth activities, emergency shelter
and transitional housing, day care for seniors and preschoolers, Christmas and holiday assistance, and many
other social services for people in need. Every year The Salvation Army encourages companies,
organizations, and church groups to participate in our Holiday Campaigns by sponsoring a kettle, serving as
volunteer bell ringers or hosting an Angel Tree. It's a great way to build employee morale and show your
support for The Salvation Army.
Sponsor-A-Kettle
The Salvation Army’s Red Kettles are one of the most highly recognized symbols of benevolence during the
Christmas season. Its a great opportunity for your business to benefit from that visibility, and support our
community at the same time. Sponsor a Kettle this Christmas season with a flat donation or commit to a
matching gift challenge dollar-for- dollar! We will display your business or organization on the kettle stand.
In addition, encourage your employees to ring the bell at your sponsored kettle.
Volunteer Bell Ringers
Your company or organization can "adopt" a Red Kettle and become volunteer Bell Ringers for a day. Your
designated Kettle will proudly display your company’s name and your employees can sign up for two-hour
shifts. You can also choose to staff several kettles (maybe in the same neighborhood) on a given day for a
specific period of time. The program is flexible so we can find an option that best suits your needs.
Host an Angel Tree or Toy Drive
The Angel Tree and Toy Drive Programs brings the joy of Christmas to children from families in need with
the help of generous sponsors. Gifts purchased by a company and its employees are given by The Salvation
Army to parents who may then experience the pride of providing gifts for their children and the treasure of
sharing in their excitement. For Angel Trees, your company supplies the Christmas Tree and we provide
personalized Angels Tree tags, each on representing a child in need. For Toy Drives, we provide the Toy
Collection Bin to be placed in your lobby or other visible area.
Thank you for your consideration of this request. It takes your support and participation to enable The
Salvation Army to continue “Doing the Most Good!”. I look forward to hearing from you. In the meantime, if
there is any other information I can provide, please feel free to contact me.
Sincerely,
[name]
[title]
[contact info]

GET MORE TOYS WITH YOUR DONOR DOLLARS THIS CHRISTMAS
We are excited to share that Mattel is a partner with The Salvation Army during the Christmas
season and year-round!
Salvation Army units can now get HUGE discounts on bulk toy orders! The
Salvation Army is now a Mattel Charity Sales Member, which means we (internal Salvation Army
units purchasing toys for distribution) are able to shop for bulk toys at extreme discounts.
In addition, we are also eligible for a 30% discount on all non-sale items in-store year-round
through this membership. However for the months of November & December only, we will receive
a 35% discount on all non-sale items in-store.
YOUR member ID: 555000455780
Mattel Charity Sales Website:
http://matteltoystore.com/discount-programs/Charity.aspx
From this website you can download the current Charity
Sales Catalog and the order form needed to place your order.
Here’s How it Works:
• Feel free to shop at any Mattel Toy Store location (find the nearest location here: http://
matteltoystore.com/locations.aspx) or through the current catalog.
• Once you select the items you would like to order, please fill out the order form found on the
Charity Sales Website, and submit back to us for processing.
• Catalog and product availability is subject to change.
• Orders can be shipped anywhere in the U.S. using our discounted shipping rates.
Note from Mattel Charity Sales Team:
Thank you for your partnership. We are delighted to be able to assist you in bringing more toys to children
in need. We look forward to working with you in the future! Feel free to reach out to us to set-up a personal
shopping appointment to assist you in selecting the perfect toys and keep you on budget.
For Questions about the Mattel Partnership and the Charity Sales opportunity, please contact
Jennifer Walker, Corporate Relations Director at: Jennifer.Walker @usw.salvationarmy.org.

Adopt-A- Family
Introduction
Adopt-­‐‐A-­‐‐Family is a Salvation Army holiday program designed to assist families
who are in crisis as a result of medical issues, unemployment, homelessness or
other difficult circumstances, and who otherwise wouldn'ʹt have the resources to
celebrate the holidays.
Program sponsors provide families with food, clothing and gifts.

Adopt-A- Family
Step- by- Step Guide
Signing up Families
Before signing up families, it is best to decide how you will distribute your gif ts.
Having an established date and time will allow you to provide correct
information to the clients regarding your distribution day.
Interviewing and helping clients fill out the application for Christmas assistance
is usually the best time to assess which clients might fit the criteria for the Adopt-­‐‐
A-­‐‐Family program. You can also take referrals from your local schools, social
workers from Department Public Social Services (DPSS) office, and/or other
reliable organizations.
Once a client has completed the application process provide them with two
forms: The "ʺFamily Pick-­‐‐Up"ʺ card giving the time and date that they should
come back to pick-­‐‐up their gifts (even if they are not chosen to be adopted) and
the "ʺChristmas Facility Guidelines"ʺ form. This will allow each family to know the
rules regarding their pick-­‐‐up day.
Examples of all forms are located at the end of the adopt-­‐‐A-­‐‐Family information:
• Client Application
• Family pick-­‐‐up card
• Christmas Facility Guidelines
Family Profile and Information
It makes it much easier for sponsors to have a description of the family and their
wish list. For this purpose, we have created a "ʺFamily Profile form."ʺ When
signing-­‐‐up families, it is best if you assign each a family number. This will make
it much easier to identify which gifts belong to each family and ensure privacy
for those families. You can indicate this number located on the upper left hand
comer of the Client Application Form, Family pick-­‐‐up card and Family Profile
Form.

NOTE: For your records, once a family has been adopted, indicate on the Adopt-­‐‐
A-­‐‐Family sponsor form the family that has been adopted (by their number)
Due to privacy reasons, only include the recipient'ʹs first name on the Family
Profile Form that you will be providing to sponsors. Contained in this section
you will find an example of a spreadsheet that you should have for your records.
It includes all of the families'ʹ contact information.
Examples of all forms are located at the end of the adopt-­‐‐A-­‐‐Family information:
• Family Profile Form
• Adopt-­‐‐A-­‐‐Family Sponsor Form
Sponsor Letters
When contacting your donors, it is always best to provide them with all of the
documents they will need. Contained herein you will find a "ʺGreetings Letter"ʺ, a
"ʺFrequently Asked Questions"ʺ form, a “Sponsor Commitment Form” and an
"ʺAdopt-­‐‐A-­‐‐Family Flyer"ʺ. Once you receive commitments from sponsors to adopt
families, send each sponsor the family profile form.
NOTE: For your records, fill out the "ʺAdopt-­‐‐A-­‐‐Family client list form"ʺ. This will
help you keep track of your sponsors and which family they have committed to
help. Also, it is important to give each sponsor a deadline as to when they should
have the family'ʹs gifts to you (At the latest one week before distribution call each
sponsor to follow-­‐‐up; confirming their drop-­‐‐off time and date. This will give you
enough time to assess what your sponsors are doing and if they are keeping their
commitment. If not, this will give you time to provide gifts for those families
from other resources.)
Examples of all forms are located at the end of the adopt-­‐‐A-­‐‐Family information:
• Greeting Letter
• Adopt-­‐‐A-­‐‐Family Flyer
• Frequently asked Questions form
• Adopt-­‐‐A-­‐‐Family client list from
• Adopt-­‐‐A-­‐‐Family sponsor list from
Picking up Gifts
When families pick-­‐‐up their gifts, please make sure they sign the "ʺGift Sign-­‐‐Out
Sheet."ʺ This will help you keep track of who has picked up their gifts and will
also be helpful in documenting the donations that were given out.

An example of all forms is located at the end of the adopt-­‐‐A-­‐‐Family information:
• Gif t Sign-­‐‐Out Sheet
Thank You Letters
Once your programs are over, it is very important to send "ʺThank You Letters."ʺ
Sponsors are eager to do their taxes the following year and prefer to receive
donation documentation at the beginning of January.
An example of all forms is located at the end of the adopt-­‐‐A-­‐‐Family information:
• Thank You letters
More Helpful Tools
Lastly, a sample "ʺSeasonal Statistical Report"ʺ that has proved useful for some
corps in tracking outcomes and a Gif t In Kind form to keep track for the
financial reporting for gift assets is included.
Examples of all forms are located at the end of the adopt-­‐‐A-­‐‐Family information:
• Example of a Seasonal Statistical Report
• Gift In Kind form (GIK)

Adopt-A- Family
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
For TSA Staff and Corps Officers
When should this program run?
Profiles should be available for donors from October through December. With that
said, it is important that letters to donors and family sign-­‐‐ups begin before October.
Who should I sign-­‐‐up?
For the Adopt-­‐‐A-­‐‐Family program, it is best if you sign-­‐‐up families that you have been
working with throughout the year. Many donors are particular about who they decide
to sponsor for the holidays. They prefer families who we know are in need and that
have been working with our sites to improve their situation.
How much should it cost?
The monetary amount is left up to the sponsor and size of the adopted family, but can
range from
-­‐‐i>150 and up. Sponsors are encouraged to keep this in mind when requesting the size
of the family they wish to adopt. If sponsors feel they can spend more than $150, we
encourage them to adopt more than one family.
Where do I find sponsors?
To find new sponsors, try contacting your local agencies, schools, churches, stores,
membership groups, etc...
Should the gifts be wrapped and labeled?
Yes, please ask sponsors to wrap all gifts and label them with the person'ʹs name and
family number.
What if the sponsor wants to personally deliver the gifts to the recipient'ʹs home?
For everyone'ʹs safety and to maintain client confidentiality, it is best for all gifts to be
dropped off at your site.
How do I distribute the gifts to the families?
You should decide before you sign-­‐‐up families how you will distribute your gifts. You
can either have a distribution day(s) or call each family to come pick up their gifts
when they arrive.

Make a difference this Holiday Season!
How it works:
• You will be matched with a family in need and provided with a "Wish List" of your
sponsored family's gift wishes: clothing sizes, preferred colors and toy request.
• You choose the new items for the holiday gift package according to your resources.
• All gifts will be delivered to a designated location for family to pick up.
The Salvation Army (Corps/Unit)
Adopt-A-Family Program
Help make this holiday season a memorable one for needy family by completing the
attached Sponsor Information Form and submitting it no later than (Day), (Date) to:
The Salvation Army Corps/unit name
Address
Phone number
Email address: (if applicable)

Adopt-A- Family
The Salvation Army (Corps Name) Corps
Christmas Facility Guidelines
We are grateful for the opportunity to work with you on our Christmas
efforts this year!
• Please treat the building with the utmost respect and care.
• Please be courteous of neighbors; we want to foster a positive
attitude with others that are waiting to be served and with the
employees and volunteers who will be serving you and your
family.
• Please dispose of all trash at the corps/unit.
• Any minor must be accompanied by a responsible adult who will
adequately supervise them.
Thank you for your service and support during this busy time!
Merry Christmas and God bless,
(Corps officer'ʹs name)
Corps Officer

Adopt-A- Family
Frequently Asked Questions
For Sponsors
What is Adopt-­‐‐A-­‐‐Family?
Adopt-­‐‐A-­‐‐Family is a holiday program designed to assist families who are in crisis as a result of
medical issues, unemployment, homelessness or other difficult circumstances, and who
otherwise wouldn'ʹt have the resources to celebrate the holidays. Programs sponsors provide
families with food, clothing and gifts.
When does this program run?
Profiles will be available from (month) through (month), (year).
Gifts will be distributed to families (month) through (month), (year).
How do we take part in this program?
Sponsors complete a Commitment Form. Through this form the sponsor requests the size of
the family or families he/she wishes to adopt. Once we receive the Commitment Form, a family
profile(s) as provided via mail or email.
How do I know what to buy for a family?
The family profile provides specific details about the family and serves as a guide to help the
sponsor know what the family needs or would like for the holidays. This is only a guide and
although sponsors are encouraged to follow the guide, please keep in mind that it is only a
guide.
How much does this cost?
The monetary amount is left up to the sponsor and size of the adopted family, but can range
from
$150 and above. Sponsors are encouraged to keep this in mind when requesting the size of the
family they wish to adopt. If sponsors feel that they can spend more than $150, we encourage
them to adopt more than one family.
Should the gifts be wrapped and labeled?
Yes, please wrap all gifts and label them with the person'ʹs name and family number.
How do I get the gifts to you?
Part of the sponsors'ʹ commitment is to deliver the gifts to our office where clients can pick
them up. Please deliver gifts to (insert side address).

THE SALVATION ARMY
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA DIVISION
Corps Name, Address, City, State, Zip
Telephone Number, Fax Number
WILLIAM BOOTH
Founder
ANDRE COX
General
JAMES M. KNAGGS
Territorial Commander
KYLE SMITH
Divisional Commander
Date
Company
Attn: (Insert contact person) Address
City, State & Zip
Dear Mr./Ms. (Insert last name),
It's that time of year again and we are ready to launch our Adopt-A-Family Christmas Program.
Through your generous support, (insert number) children and families suffering homelessness,
domestic and financial crises were blessed by the wonderful gifts you shared with them.
This year we invite you to take part in this awesome experience by continuing the tradition. We
would like to help as many families as possible and know we can accomplish this with your help.
Please join us in making this year another successful year by adopting a family.
Feel free to invite a family member or friend to participate this year. Just imagine, if every one
who participated last year forwards this to one person, we can double the number of families and
children we touch this year!
On behalf of The Salvation Army and the families we serve, we would like to thank you for your
continued generosity, support and commitment to our families. Know that you truly make a
difference at a very critical time in the lives of children and families.
Sincerely,
(Insert Name, Title)
Visit us at our website
www.SalvationArmy-SoCal.org

THE SALVATION ARMY
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA DIVISION
Corps Name, Address, City, State, Zip
Telephone Number, Fax Number
WILLIAM BOOTH
Founder
ANDRE COX
General
JAMES M. KNAGGS
Territorial Commander
KYLE SMITH
Divisional Commander
Date
Company
Attn: (Insert contact person) Address
City, State & Zip
Dear Mr./Ms. (Insert last name),
We would like to thank you for your generous contribution to our Adopt-A-Famil y Christmas
Program. We cannot thank you enough for your interest in choosing our organization. We hope
you know that your support and dedication are vital to the success of our program.
Every holiday season, families face financial, emotional and unfortunate crises. Due to
unemployment, disabilities, or sudden tragedies, they find it necessary to ask The Salvation
Army for support. Many of these families have little or no hope during this season and it is your
generosity and commitment to our clients that makes all the difference. We witness first hand the
tears that your generosity brings to our clients' eyes. We also know that, for many of our clients,
your gifts go beyond providing basic needs; they instill back the hope that has been lost to
hardship. This is indeed priceless.
Once again we thank you for your dedication and partnership in doing the most good, to those
who need it the most. We look forward to serving even more families next year with your help.
May God Bless!
Sincerely,
(Insert Name, Title)
Please use the following number for tax purposes:
TAX EXEMPTID:
Visit us at our website
www.SalvationArmy-SoCal.org

Adopt-A- Family
Commonly Used Statistical Reporting Codes
4130 -­‐‐ Volunteer Activity -­‐‐Please only provide your final, TOTAL numbers for each reporting
month. There is no need to break everything down on this report.
5110 -­‐‐ Men (individual cases) -­‐‐ The TOTAL served during each reporting month.
5112 -­‐‐ Women (individual cases) -­‐‐The TOTAL served during each reporting month
5116 -­‐‐ Family cases -­‐‐TOTAL number of family units
5120 -­‐‐ Cases served this month (unduplicated) -­‐‐Please only provide the TOTAL number
5125 -­‐‐ Total Persons Served -­‐‐Please DO NOT provide a breakdown
5130 -­‐‐ Cases Served l51 time year -­‐‐ Only the TOTAL
5207 -­‐‐ Groceries, Orders provided -­‐‐Only the TOTAL
5230 -­‐‐ Clothing/Items Distributed -­‐‐Please DO NOT provide a breakdown
5250 -­‐‐ Toys Distributed -­‐‐ONLY THE TOTAL

The Salvation Army Angel Tree
Introduction
The Salvation Army Angel Tree program is a holiday program designed to assist
families who are in crisis as a result of medical issues, unemployment, homelessness or
other difficult circumstances, and who otherwise wouldn'ʹt have the resources to
celebrate the holidays.
Tags are sent to companies who wish to participate in the program. The tags can be
placed on a Christmas tree as if it was a Christmas ornament. Employees and/or guests
are welcome to take a tag and purchase item(s) requested.
Please Note -­‐‐ this program should be referred to as "ʺThe Salvation Army Angel Tree
Program"ʺ in all instances, as there'ʹs another organization with an Angel Tree program
as well. We'ʹve agreed to specify that this is a Salvation Army program in all uses.
Thanks for your understanding.

The Salvation Army Angel Tree
Step- By- Step Guide
Introduction:
The Salvation Army Angel Tree program is purely a method of attracting donations
and gives the community a chance to express their concern for others. It involves
having malls, businesses, law firms, and other entities allowing a Christmas tree with
"ʺangels"ʺ attached to be set up in their location so that employees, customers, and other
interested people can select an "ʺangel"ʺ and then purchase a toy for use at Salvation
Army Toy-­‐‐'ʹn-­‐‐ Joy Shops or similar programs.
The Salvation Army Angel Tree program is not to be confused with toy distribution.
Individual units distribute toys in a variety of ways, often through toy shops where
parents "ʺshop"ʺ for toys for their children. In some cases, "ʺangel"ʺ tags represent actual
children who will receive the specific toy donated from the community. Most
commonly, however, the "ʺangels"ʺ are representative of children.
How a corps decides to distribute toys collected through TSA Angel Trees and other
means is up to the local unit and can vary from place to place. This section of the
toolkit specifically relates to a form of soliciting toy donations.
Recruiting TSA Angel Tree Sponsors:
For this program, you need to concentrate on finding sponsors for trees which will
have "ʺangels"ʺ hung on them. Ideal sponsors include malls where trees can be set up in
central locations, major department stores, and large businesses with a lot of foot
traffic. Other good sponsors include large businesses or professional firms where the
trees are set up specifically for employee participation. Many organizations like to
sponsor TSA Angel Trees for their employees rather than having gift exchanges.
Sometimes churches or schools will also host a tree on our behalf.
Here is how to start:
1. Determine how many toys you would like to raise via TSA Angel Trees. Assume
that only about one-­‐‐third of the angels on any given tree will be taken, so if you
want 300 toys, for example, you should plan to find enough sponsors for 900
angel tags.

2. Make a list of prospective sponsors in your area (list at least four times as many
as you need because not everyone will be interested).
Some ideas are:
a. Large malls with heavy foot traffic (malls with toy stores are ideal).
b. Major box stores, including Wal-­‐‐Mart, Target, Toy 51 Us, K Mart (some
stores have policies against setting up trees or other kinds of solicitation, so
these are just suggestions -­‐‐no guarantees).
c. Major grocery stores, such as Ralph'ʹs, Albertson'ʹs, Food for Less, Vons, etc.
d. Large corporations, such as So Cal Edison, major law firms, national
headquarters of auto makers, etc.
e. Churches and schools (especially Christian schools).
f. Any place else that makes sense in your community.
3. Find out who the contact people are at each place -­‐‐mall or store general
manager, public relations officer, pastor, principal, etc. Sometimes you can find
this information online.
4. Send letters of inquiry; wait a reasonable period of time, such as 7-­‐‐10 days, and
then follow up with a phone call or personal visit.
Sponsor Letters:
When contacting potential sponsors, it is always best to provide them with all of the
documents they will need. Please refer to the "ʺCorporate Support Request Letter,"ʺ
"ʺFAQs for Sponsors,"ʺ "ʺHow to Host a Salvation Army Angel Tree,"ʺ and an example
"ʺSponsor'ʹs Spreadsheet"ʺ to help you with valuable information and tracking of sponsor
contacts and commitments. The spreadsheet also allows you to track how many angel
tags the sponsor has requested.
Tag Preparation:
If you are using generic tags (that is, a tag may say Antonio, boy, age 7, but really be
only representative of the wishes of 7-­‐‐year-­‐‐old boys), then you need to figure out how
many children you expect to serve by age and gender. For example, if you know that
last year you served 35 girls in the 3-­‐‐5 age group, then you will want to make about 105
tags for girls in that age group. Last year'ʹs statistics of clients served are the best basis
for projection of this year'ʹs needs. Given the state of the economy, you should project
serving 20%-­‐‐25% more children than last year.

If you are going to use actual children on the tags, you need to figure out your
distribution system and either number tags or somehow prepare them in such a way
that you can link them to specific children at the time of distribution. It is a good idea
to prepare three tags for each actual child so that the likelihood is high that one will be
chosen. Also, you will need to do Christmas sign-­‐‐ups very early so that you know the
individual children you will serve.
You can order tags using the "ʺAngel Tag Request Form,"ʺ included in this toolkit
section.
Monitoring:
Depending on the location of each tree, you will need to do more or less monitoring of
the site. If a tree is in a mall or store/business that'ʹs open to the public, you should
arrange with the mall or store manager when and how often pick-­‐‐ups should occur.
Some stores will move toys into a secure location each evening, so that you can pick
them up only a few times. Others will not get involved in the process, so you will need
to arrange for pick-­‐‐ups daily or every other day to reduce theft. For trees located in
office buildings or firms, generally you can arrange for just one pick-­‐‐up right before
your distribution date. But it has to be individualized by site -­‐‐ don'ʹt just expect a store
manager to oversee your tree.
Use of Volunteers at Tree Sites:
If you have a tree in a major mall or big department store, it is helpful to have a
volunteer or two on site during the busiest hours. People are of ten more comfortable
about leaving donations if there is a volunteer there to watch over them, and
volunteers can also explain the tree to prospective donors and encourage participation.
Thank You Letters:
Once your programs are over, it is very important to send thank you letters. Sponsors
who have put their own resources into a tree want to include their donations on their
taxes, so they prefer to receive thank you letters at the beginning of January. Even if the
sponsor does not take a tax deduction, he/she should be thanked for their participation.
Not only do they deserve thanks, but also this follow-­‐‐up contact makes them more
likely to sponsor a tree again next year. An example of a thank you letter can be found
toward the end of this section.
More Helpful Tools:
Lastly -­‐‐we have also included "ʺFacility Guidelines,"ʺ which should be helpful in
maintaining a safe and organized site, as well as a sample "ʺSeasonal Statistical Report"ʺ
and a "ʺGifts In-­‐‐Kind"ʺ report that have proven useful in years past.

The Salvation Army Angel Tree
FAQs for TSA Staff
When should this program run?
Angel Tags should be available for sponsors from October through December. With that said, it is
important that contact with donors begin before October.
What are the Angel Tags?
Angel Tags are paper angels, each listing a child'ʹs age, gender, and "ʺgift wish."ʺ
Where can I purchase Angel Tags?
You can purchase Angel Tags at www.churchsupplier.com. It'ʹs best if you check often for their specials.
You can also purchase tags by contacting Allen Schantol at The Salvation Army Las Vegas ARP at (702)
870-­‐‐4430 or allen.shantol@usw.salvationarmy.org. You can also buy tags online at www.liber
typresstulsa.com . It is recommended to order the tags in advance since shipping might not be speedy.
Who should go on the tags?
The Salvation Army Angel Tree program is designed to provide Christmas gifts for your use with
clients. Generally, the cut-­‐‐off age for this program is 12 years old, but some units may elect to serve kids
up to 14 or seniors. Fill out all spaces on the tags with the appropriate information.
How much does this cost?
Sponsors should not spend more than $20 per angel tag. If sponsors feel that they can spend more that
$20 per tag, we encourage them to choose more than one tag.
Where do I find sponsors?
To find new sponsors, try contacting your local agencies, schools, churches, stores, membership groups,
etc.
Can gifts be dropped off at your location?
We are always grateful when agencies designate an employee/volunteer to drop-­‐‐off the toys.
Should the gifts be wrapped and labeled?
No, all toys must be unwrapped. Please ask sponsors to stick the angel tag they chose to the gift in order
for us to know what child that gift is for (if you are putting the names of actual children on the tags).
What if the sponsor wants to personally deliver the gifts to the recipients'ʹ home?
For everyone'ʹs safety and to maintain client confidentiality, it is best for all gifts to be dropped off at
your site.
How do I distribute the gifts to the families?
You have flexibility in how you want to distribute gifts to family, whether through a toy shop or some
other arrangement. However, you should decide your method of distribution before you distribute tags
so that you can mark them appropriately.

THE SALVATION ARMY
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA DIVISION
Corps Name, Address, City, State, Zip
Telephone Number, Fax Number
WILLIAM BOOTH
Founder
ANDRE COX
General
JAMES M. KNAGGS
Territorial Commander
KYLE SMITH
Divisional Commander
Date
Company
Attn: (Insert contact person) Address
City, State & Zip
Dear Mr./Ms. (Insert last name),
It's that time of year again and we are ready to launch The Salvation Army Angel Tree Christmas
Program. Through your generous support, (insert number) children and families suffering
homelessness, domestic and financial crises were blessed by the wonderful gifts you shared with
them.
This year we invite you to take part in this awesome experience by continuing the tradition. We
would like to help as many children as possible and know we can accomplish this with your help.
Please join us in making this year another successful year by participating in The Salvation
Army Angel Tree Program.
On behalf of The Salvation Army and the children we serve, we would like to thank you for your
continued generosity, support and commitment. Know that you truly make a difference at a very
critical time in the lives of children and families. May your holiday be filled with love, peace and
joy!
Sincerely,
(Insert Name, Title)
Visit us at our website
www.SalvationArmy-SoCal.org

The Salvation Army Angel Tree
FAQs for Sponsors
What is an Angel Tree?
Salvation Army Angel Tree tags are used by companies, families, and other groups who wish to
participate as donors. The tags can be placed on a Christmas tree as if they were ornaments, or they can
be distributed by other means of your choosing. Employees, customers, and/or guests then take a tag
and purchase the item(s) requested.
When does this program run?
Angel Tags will be available from (month) through (month), (year).
What are the Angel Tags?
Angel Tags are paper angels, each listing a specific child, their age, gender and "ʺgift wish."ʺ
Where can I display the tags?
Place a Salvation Army Angel Tree in a prominent spot at your business! You can display the tags on a
tree, or on the wall or window. This is a wonderful way to serve your community, and let your
associates/clients know that you support the needy families who live in your county.
How much does this cost?
Sponsors should not spend more than $20 per angel tag. If sponsors feel that they can spend more that
$20 per tag, we encourage them to choose more than one tag.
Where do I return the Salvation Army Angel Tree gift?
The unwrapped gifts are to be returned to your building/office at your designated drop-­‐‐ off locations.
When will the gifts be picked up?
When you are ready to schedule a pick-­‐‐up, please call a week in advance to schedule an appointment.
Due to the high volume of pick-­‐‐ups during our holiday season, we will not be able to return for any gifts
that are lef t behind . Please make sure your group has gathered all gifts by your pick-­‐‐up date and time.
If we are also participating in Adopt-­‐‐A-­‐‐Family, can all of the gifts be picked up at the same time?
Yes, if you are participating in both of our Christmas programs, we will pick up all of the gifts at the
same time.
Can gifts be dropped off at your location?
We are always grateful when agencies designate an employee/volunteer to drop-­‐‐off the toys. Gifts can be
dropped off at (address).

The Salvation Army Corps
Christmas Facility Guidelines
We are grateful for the opportunity to work with you on our Christmas efforts this
year!
• Please treat the building with the utmost respect and care.
• Please be courteous of neighbors; we want to foster a positive relationship with
the building owners and tenants.
• All volunteers and staff must sign in and out of the building.
• This is for security purposes. Sign up sheet is located (location).
• Please make sure that all lights are off and all doors are secured and locked
when you leave the building.
• Check to make sure that the restroom lights are off and that it'ʹs tidy.
• Please dispose of all trash at the corps.
• Any minor must be accompanied by a responsible adult who will adequately
supervise them.
Thank you for your service and support during this busy time! Merry Christmas and
God bless,
Corps Officer

THE SALVATION ARMY
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA DIVISION
Corps Name, Address, City, State, Zip
Telephone Number, Fax Number
WILLIAM BOOTH
Founder
ANDRE COX
General
JAMES M. KNAGGS
Territorial Commander
KYLE SMITH
Divisional Commander
Date
Company
Attn: (Insert contact person) Address
City, State & Zip
Dear Mr./Ms. (Insert last name),
We would like to thank you for your generous contribution to The Salvation Army Angel Tree
Christmas Program. We cannot thank you enough for your interest in choosing our organization.
We hope you know that your support and dedication are vital to the success of our program.
Every holiday season, families face financial, emotional and unfortunate crises. Due to
unemployment, disabilities, or sudden tragedies, they find it necessary to ask The Salvation
Army for support. Many of these families have little or no hope during this season and it is your
generosity and commitment to our clients that makes all the difference. We witness first hand the
tears that your generosity brings to our clients' eyes. We also know that, for many of our clients,
your gifts go beyond providing basic needs; they instill back the hope that has been lost to
hardship. This is indeed priceless.
Once again we thank you for your dedication and partnership in doing the most good, to those
who need it the most. We look forward to serving even more families next year with your help.
May God Bless!
Sincerely,
(Insert Name, Title)
Please use the following number for tax purposes:
TAX EXEMPT ID:
Visit us at our website
www.SalvationArmy-SoCal.org

Adopt-A- Family
Commonly Used Statistical Reporting Codes
4130 -­‐‐ Volunteer Activity -­‐‐Please only provide your final, TOTAL numbers for each reporting
month. There is no need to break everything down on this report.
5110 -­‐‐ Men (individual cases) -­‐‐ The TOTAL served during each reporting month.
5112 -­‐‐ Women (individual cases) -­‐‐The TOTAL served during each reporting month
5116 -­‐‐ Family cases -­‐‐TOTAL number of family units
5120 -­‐‐ Cases served this month (unduplicated) -­‐‐Please only provide the TOTAL number
5125 -­‐‐ Total Persons Served -­‐‐Please DO NOT provide a breakdown
5130 -­‐‐ Cases Served l51 time year -­‐‐ Only the TOTAL
5207 -­‐‐ Groceries, Orders provided -­‐‐Only the TOTAL
5230 -­‐‐ Clothing/Items Distributed -­‐‐Please DO NOT provide a breakdown
5250 -­‐‐ Toys Distributed -­‐‐ONLY THE TOTAL

Food Drives
Introduction
Food drives are a great way to help keep our pantries stocked. There are always people
and organizations willing to help. All you have to do is ask ... and organize!
This toolkit will provide a step-­‐‐by-­‐‐step guide to help you organize a food drive from
beginning to end. Included are templates that will help you through the process.
Of upmost importance is a timeline to help you plan out and organize your event. Also
included are letters of introduction to new partners, flyers and thank you letters. Thank
you letters are critical since we hope that new partners will have such a great
experience and feel so appreciated afterwards, that they will commit to holding a food
drive on a yearly basis.
Finally, this toolkit is intended to provide ideas and we ask that you feel free to tailor
the material to make it relevant to your site.
Thank you for all your hard work in feeding the hungry in your community!

Food Drives
Why a Food Drive?
What to say to those individuals/groups/or organizations that you come in contact
with in your community.
Food Drives Strengthen Our Communities. Food drives foster a sense of teamwork by
creating an opportunity to work together toward a common goal and worthy cause.
Local Salvation Army units can encourage partnerships with local organizations,
schools, businesses, associations, service groups and churches to collect canned and
dry food products throughout the year. These food drives provide an opportunity to
inform, encourage and involve all participants in understanding and addressing
hunger issues in the community.
The Salvation Army has served over a million people this past year. Servicing the
working poor, children, seniors on fixed incomes, single parents, the disabled, the
homeless, veterans and individuals experiencing medical emergencies or recent job
layoffs.
The Salvation Army partners with others in the community to conduct food drives to
serve the hungry. This includes local grocery stores, churches, senior centers, schools,
community organizations, government entities like The US Postal Service, privately
held companies, and local groups. Hosting a food drive at your place of
business/organization is a great way to get involved and show community spirit.

Food Drives
How to Run a Food Drive
1. Select the dates of your drive.
We suggest holding a food drive for 2 weeks or longer, so that people have plenty of
time to bring their items in. No matter what the length of time you choose, plan on
receiving items in after your publicized deadline.
2. Make some noise!
Publicity is the key to a successful drive. Spread the word to as many people as
possible and don'ʹt be shy about reminding them. Don'ʹt just rely on the printed
materials to publicize your drive. Send out an email or leave a voicemail. People like to
be informed about ways they can help. When they discover how easy it is and what an
impact it will make, they will jump at the chance to participate!
3. Distribute printed publicity materials.
Print the contact name, address, phone number and drop off point on the posters and
fliers and photocopy as many as you need. Recruit friends, family or colleagues to help
you distribute the materials to the group who will be participating in the drive. Deliver
them to people and keep them displayed in public areas such as the front desk, break
room, kitchen, announcement board, classroom, and lounge or neighborhood
community center. Make this step a fun activity for your group and the drive will be a
great experience for everyone.
4. Set up the drop-­‐‐off point.
Make sure the drop-­‐‐off point is easily accessible. Announce its presence by putting up
"ʺDrop-­‐‐ Off Point"ʺ posters on the door, window or wall nearby. Secure another poster to
the box or bin that you are using to collect food. Place the box or the bin where people
can see it, but is relatively protected from weather.
5. Collect, Collect, Collect!
The hard part is over and now it is time for you to sit back and watch your group(s)
come together to support the needs of the hungry in your community. Schedule a
pickup or drop off for the food that has been donated.

Food Drives
Tips and Suggestions
OBTAIN SUPPORT & INPUT
• Obtain the endorsement of the organization'ʹs top management.
• Invite business/organizations contact person to be a part of the planning
meeting.
• If you expect to collect 300 lbs. or more, provide collection barrels/boxes and
posters for the event in high-­‐‐traffic areas.
CREATIVE IDEAS TO BUILD AWARENESS
• Choose a catchy name or theme for your food drive.
• Distribute posters, flyers or send an e-­‐‐mail outlining the need and ways of
participating. Include the list of most needed items
• Businesses can use payroll stuffers to ask employees to make cash donations.
Every dollar donated to the Food Bank provides 3 meals.
• Submit an announcement of the food drive to your local newspaper.
• Small group tours of your Salvation Army unit can be arranged to learn more
about the hunger problem your community and how they can help.
CREATIVE IDEAS TO CREATE ENTHUSIASM
• Set a goal for how much food and how many dollars you want to collect, track
the progress, and announce final results.t
• Create a display board to show hunger statistics, track progress, etc.
• Create challenges between departments, classes, etc. For instance, a winning
department could get a free pizza party.
• Offer incentives such as gift certificates, casual dress days or a special parking
spot for the top contributor.
• Schedule a fun kick-­‐‐off event to create interest in the food drive. For example,
hold an office party in which admission is a food or cash donation to the
drive.
• Give away some creative incentive for those who participate in the food drive.

OTHER FOOD DRIVE IDEAS
1. Give what you lose-­‐‐Challenge employees to lose weight, and donate $1 for each
pound they lose.
2. Stock the warehouse-­‐‐Encourage employees to donate food and then take their
picture and put it on a main wall area at work.
3. A tisket, a tasket. Send out a "ʺwish list"ʺ of items you want to put in a food
basket. The worker puts the donation in the basket/bin and send out email
updates through-­‐‐out the day of what has been collected and what was still
needed to complete your company'ʹs basket.
4. Coupon-­‐‐Offer customers a coupon on a future purchase in exchange for a
donation.
5. Penny War-­‐‐1, 2, 3, 4, let'ʹs start a Penny war! Each grade gets their own jar
+ one for the faculty and staff. The rules are simple -­‐‐pennies are positive,
anything silver or green is negative. It'ʹs helpful to announce daily who is in the
lead (counting daily is a great project for an accounting class.)
6. The Pastor will-­‐‐ Set a goal to gather specific types of food. If the congregation
meets the goal, the pastor (or pastoral staff) will dress up like the food.

PLANNING THE EVENT
Food Drive Timeline Sheet
Name of Your Corps/Site
DATE
Tasks
Set date
Letter to partnering
organization
Flyers
Send out e-mails
Volunteers for event
Purchase boxes/request
donation
Arrange for
transportation to
transport boxes to site
Produce signage
Order t-shirts for staff
Send thank you notes
Responsible
Person
Due by
Status/Notes
DAY OF EVENT
Tasks
Set-up
Meet w/ staff/volunteers
Handle parking
Volunteer sign-in
Water/Snacks
Box arrangement
Media relations
Take pictures
Break-down
Responsible
Person
Due by
Status/Notes

THE SALVATION ARMY
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA DIVISION
Corps Name, Address, City, State, Zip
Telephone Number, Fax Number
WILLIAM BOOTH
Founder
ANDRE COX
General
JAMES M. KNAGGS
Territorial Commander
KYLE SMITH
Divisional Commander
Date
Company
Attn: (Insert contact person) Address
City, State & Zip
Dear Mr./Ms. (Insert last name),
RE: Holding a Food Drive
The Salvation Army provides food to thousands of people each year. Our local Salvation Army
feeds (insert your number here) on a monthly basis. Recently, we have experienced an increase
of families that need our help. For this reason, we are reaching out to organizations such as yours
to request that they partner with us to hold a food drive.
We will provide you with the flyers to help you get the word out, and boxes to hold the food. We
will be present that day to help collect the food along with your volunteers.
We will also make arrangements to transport the food boxes back to our site.
We welcome the opportunity to discuss this further at your convenience. I will follow- up with a
telephone call to you next week.
Thank you in advance for your time and consideration. We look forward to your partnership to
help those who need it most.
Blessings,
(Insert Name, Title)
Visit us at our website
www.SalvationArmy-SoCal.org

THE SALVATION ARMY
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA DIVISION
Corps Name, Address, City, State, Zip
Telephone Number, Fax Number
WILLIAM BOOTH
Founder
ANDRE COX
General
JAMES M. KNAGGS
Territorial Commander
KYLE SMITH
Divisional Commander
Date
Company
Attn: (Insert contact person) Address
City, State & Zip
Dear Mr./Ms. (Insert last name),
We would like to thank you for holding a food drive that will help feed hundreds of people. We
cannot thank you enough for your interest in choosing our organization. We hope you know that
your support and dedication are vital to keeping our pantries stocked.
During times of need, families face financial, emotional and unfortunate crises. Due to
unemployment, disabilities, or sudden tragedies, they find it necessary to ask The Salvation
Army for support. Many of these families come to us with little or no hope and it is your
generosity and commitment to our clients that makes all the difference. We witness firsthand the
difference your generosity makes in the lives of our clients.
Once again we thank you for your dedication and partnership in doing the most good, to those
who need it the most. We look forward to serving even more families next year with your help.
Blessings,
(Insert Name, Title)
Visit us at our website
www.SalvationArmy-SoCal.org

Food Drives
Sample Email Text
Sample Personal Email
Greetings!
As most of you know, the need to assist families at [site/Corps] has increased and more
than ever we need your help. I want to let everyone know about an easy way to help.
During the month of [insert month], The Salvation Army in [insert community] will be
having a food drive. Your donations will help feed even more hungry people.
Attached is a list of items that are needed most.
Thank you for considering making a difference in your community!
Sample Companywide Email:
Good morning!
The Salvation Army is conducting a Food Drive. This is a time when donations to local
food pantries means helping families eat during these hard economic times.
Beginning today and continuing until (insert date) we'ʹll be inviting both employees
and customers to donate food and cash to The Salvation Army Pantry. Donation boxes
have been placed near each entrance.
Please consider bringing in a few items, what is needed most is posted on each box. If
you'ʹre thinking of running to the grocery store, though, please don'ʹt -­‐‐ consider giving
cash instead. The Salvation Army can stretch their donation dollars by purchasing in
bulk or through our local Food Bank. That buying power allows them to feed a family
for a week for just $30.
Thank you for considering making a difference in your community!

Toy Drives
Introduction
Successful toys drives are well prepared, well promoted and well prayed up!
The following ideas have been gathered to help assist you in preparing, running and
closing down a productive toy drive for your corps/program.
This is not an exhaustive list, so please add and experiment to see what works best
for you and your community.
Remember, you can't do it alone ... and a little bit of planning goes a LONG way!

Toy Drives
Step- by- Step Guide
Be organized
Whatever system works for you ... go for it! But, have a plan and stick with it. Keep all
your information for each toy drive together (ideally on the computer).
Be able to find information at a moment's notice, especially when dealing with donors.
Sometimes they want to give NOW, and even if it is more of a challenge for us, we need to
be ready for the blessings! Be sure that your files and information are well marked, just in
case someone other than you has to respond to a need or situation.
Be proactive
Don't be afraid to ask others to help. There are a variety of ways people can help; keep your
mind open to the possibilities! For example, if a store says they cannot participate in the toy
drive this year, ask them if they could support in another way, i.e. giving plastic bags for
distribution, giving snacks for volunteers, allowing their employees to volunteer on
company time, etc.
Also, if there is an issue with a donor, site or volunteer, please deal with it ... don't just hope
it will go away. Even if you had nothing to do with the situation, do all you can to resolve it
and enlist them to help make a difference in their community through The Salvation Army.
Be passionate
It's easy to grow weary in "DOING THE MOST GOOD," especially around Christmas
time, but remember what you are doing, why you are doing it and who you are doing it for.
Be excited about the opportunity that the toy drive affords. Your enthusiasm (or lack
thereof) will be contagious! You may have many toy drives going on, but this may be the
only one that your donor/partner is involved with ... make it the best one ever!
To get members of the community to participate, you need to have thought through some of
the basics of your program. Some of those include:
• Determine your timeline
• It's good to begin your planning for Christmas toy drives in the summer.
Take the time to identify good locations from previous years, and send those
contact people a letter asking them if they would be interested in partnering
again this year. Drive around your town and see if there have been additional
places have opened in the past year that would be good locations for a toy drive.
Stop in and see the manager, chat with them, and get the contact information
needed to determine if they would participate in the toy drive. It is best to have a
uniformed, well- spoken person with a business card to make this first contact.

• When is your distribution? Be sure to have enough time between the end of the
drive and the distribution date(s) to process and prepare the toys.
• What are the dates of the drive? Work in conjunction with your partners (i.e.
mall, school, store, etc) to establish a workable and realistic time for the toy
drive. Also, if applicable, detail out the hours that you can be in the mall or at the
store. Some locations will require you to be at the site during the open hours of
the establishment (i.e. morning after Thanksgiving at 5 a.m.). This will help you
be on the same page with your partner, as well as assist in organizing your
volunteers.
• Design your drive
• Who will the recipients be? Who will get toys? Everyone 18 and under? 14 and
under? How will they be selected -via application, referral or both? You need to
determine who you will be giving toys to and how, so that you can effectively
communicate this to your donors.
• Who will your partners be? The short answer is just about everyone! You can
do a huge drive with a corporation, mall or school. Or, you can do a smaller
drive with the local quilting or car club ... there is a lot of flexibility and
opportunity in toy drives. The same basic tenants of organization apply, but
obviously the larger the group, the more organization and attention it takes. As
stated above, look to your partners of the past to see who would like to help
again. But, don't rule out smaller stores, groups and maybe even individuals.
• What kind of toys are you looking for? The need is for NEW toys (always
check the toys before they are given to ensure the toys are indeed new and
appropriate). But what kind of toys do you want? Help the volunteers and donors
with a toy guide, similar to this:
o Stocking stuffers: crayons, Play-doh, stickers, and other small toys to add to
the main gift for the child.
o Main gift toys: since each child typically gets 1toy, we would ask that the
approximate gift value for the main gift be $15-20.
o Stuffed animals: of ten given as supplemental or stocking stuffers
• Design signs, posters, flyers, cards, etc. to help promote your program.
Check with local printers to see if they will give you a discount or do your
printing for free, if you add "this sign sponsored by..." Try to have all outside
communication tools look clear, concise and attractive. Be sure to always have a
contact phone number someone can call for more information. Contact your
DHQ Development Department and see if they have any resources or art that you
can use to make your signage attractive and informative. Order Salvation Army
stickers, balloons, etc. to promote the Army and provide a little thank you for
donors. This works especially well in schools.

• Healthy competition/Recognition
• Work with your contact to determine if there could be an added element of
competition. This can bring fun and excitement to the drive, as classes,
departments, floors or even different branches compete to see who can bring
in the most toys.
• Develop an incentive for the top giving 'unit', both at that location and for
your entire drive. Be creative in developing a prize. For a school class, maybe
you could get snacks donated for a special snack time. Consider a plaque for
the top giving group or even a "golden drum" award ...a simple toy drum
painted gold. Resource Connection may have some good branding ideas for
you.
• Be sure to write a thank you letter and print off a certificate of appreciation
for each group that contributes. A little thanks goes a long way!
• Toy handling 101
• Be sure that only clearly identified volunteers and staff are handling the toys
-both at the point of pick up, organization and distribution. Make a name
badge, create a t-shirt, make business cards -have some way for those dealing
with your donations to identify themselves. Make a rule and communicate it
to your partners (i.e. only people with a badge, or are in uniform, or have this
card, etc. will be picking up toys from your location). This can help reduce
confusion, miscommunication and fraud.
• Be sure to determine early on where you will be storing and distributing the
toys. Most often, corps don't have enough space to keep the toys and
distribute from the corps building. Look for locations that are close to public
transportation, are in relatively safe areas, and have adequate parking. Drive
around your community in the late summer/early fall to determine a 'wish list'
of warehouse sites. Your advisory board or chamber of commerce may be
helpful in helping find a suitable location for the distribution. Don't be afraid
to ask - some landlords will donate the space, or rent it for energy costs, etc.
• Have a specific plan or schedule to pick up the toys. If you are at a mall or
some other place that needs a daily pick up, be sure to find enough staff or
volunteers to cover those responsibilities. Often times, people get sick or
have other emergencies during the holidays. Have a Plan B waiting for those
times. All too often, toys get left at locations and are wasted. Be sure to
contact the location, ask how the drive is going and if they need a pick up.
Don't leave any toys behind!
• Ensure that the toys are kept in a secure location. No one wants to be on the 5
o'clock news for toys being stolen from the warehouse when it can be
avoided.

• Wrapping Up
• Be sure to thank your donors (if you have their information) as well as your
partner organizations and volunteers. As stated before, "a little thanks goes a
long way!" Develop an appreciation certificate; they are easy to create on the
computer.
• Develop a survey to include with your thank you letter. Ask how the toy
drive can be improved and what suggestions they have to make The
Salvation Army toy drive the best in the community. Include a self addressed
stamped envelope for the return of the survey.

Toy Drives
Frequently Asked Questions
"Who should I ask to help with the toy drive?"
The short answer is EVERYONE! Contact local toy stores (especially mom and pop stores;
they may be smaller, but they have more flexibility to support the drive than a chain retailer
might). Ask schools, churches, community centers, retirement communities ... There is
really no limit on who may want to be involved. There are various levels of involvement.
Some may want to sponsor a drive and do the whole thing by themselves. Some may want
to host a one day event, while others may just want to help out as needed.
"When should I start a toy drive?"
Start planning a Christmas toy drive in the summer. Be sure to have your dates figured out
before you start asking people to be involved.
"How do I keep the interest going in the middle of a toy drive?"
Don't let the campaign drag on. Keep it interesting and lively. Prizes and incentives are a
great way to do this. Also, communicating the needs and the progress are crucial for
keeping people interested. Develop a visual aid that can help people see the contribution
their organization has made (i.e. poster of a toy box ...every toy in the box could represent
25 toys given, etc.)
"How do I ensure that we get the kind of toys that we need?"
Clearly communicate the needs, be specific and give examples of what you need. For
example, you could give a list of boys and girls toys that would 'qualify' for a main gift (i.e.
remote control cars, Barbie sets, games, etc), and what would 'qualify' for a stocking stuffer
(i.e. Hot Wheels, card games, crayons, etc). Never be rude or decline a gift, even if it is
inappropriate or used. We can always pass on these items to the ARC and still keep the
donor's support.
"What do I do with toys that were given late or were picked up after the drive?"
There are a number of things that can be done with these toys. First, be sure to send a thank
you letter, no matter WHEN you received the gift. It can always be given to some child
who needs it. Keep in mind your social services; maybe you need toys for the kids to play
with while they are waiting for their parents, or they can be given to children who have
experienced trauma, or to other needy children within your sphere of influence. It is also a
good idea to keep some toys in storage to help you get a start on next year's toy program.
"Why do the toys need to be new and unwrapped? Won't we take anything?"
Typically for toy drives, we ask that the toys be new because it's a nicer gift to receive,

especially for the kids. For many of the kids that we serve, a new toy is a great novelty and
a rare experience.
We ask that toys are unwrapped for a few reasons:
1. We need to ensure that the toy is good quality. As unbelievable as it may seem, there
have been some situations where a gift has been beautifully wrapped, but it
contained rubbish ...literally. As The Salvation Army, we want to do all we can
to ensure children receive a nice gift.
2. A second reason is that often times the parents like to wrap their own gifts. It can
help give them a feeling of partnership with the gift, and providing for their
children. It's a great idea to use this as an opportunity to clean out your Hallmark
room and give away the wrapping paper and gift bags that have been taking up
space. Kids don't care if the wrapping is Christmas-y or not!

THE SALVATION ARMY
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA DIVISION
Corps Name, Address, City, State, Zip
Telephone Number, Fax Number
WILLIAM BOOTH
Founder
ANDRE COX
General
JAMES M. KNAGGS
Territorial Commander
KYLE SMITH
Divisional Commander
Date
Company
Attn: (Insert contact person) Address
City, State & Zip
Dear Mr./Ms. (Insert last name),
As you are well aware the holidays will be here before we know it! The Salvation Army strives
to provide Christmas assistance to those in our community who are finding times particularly
tight, and need support to provide for their children this Christmas. We would like to invite your
company to partner with us to make this Christmas a very special one for the children of our
community.
We would like to ask for your support in our annual toy drive. Through your involvement, we
will be able to reach out to children who are in need. There are a variety of ways that you can be
involved:
1. You could sponsor a drive at your office
2. Pledge to give a certain dollar amount for toys to be purchased
3. Or provide volunteers for the preparation and distribution of the toys
A member of our "Team Christmas" will be contacting you to discuss the opportunities that are
available in more detail. We would appreciate your thoughtful consideration in joining forces
with us this Christmas as we endeavor to provide the best Christmas ever to the children of our
community.
If you have any questions, or already know how you would like to be involved, please do not
hesitate to contact me at [insert contact information].
I appreciate your time and look forward to working with you.
Sincerely,
(Insert Name, Title)
Visit us at our website
www.SalvationArmy-SoCal.org

THE SALVATION ARMY
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA DIVISION
Corps Name, Address, City, State, Zip
Telephone Number, Fax Number
WILLIAM BOOTH
Founder
ANDRE COX
General
JAMES M. KNAGGS
Territorial Commander
KYLE SMITH
Divisional Commander
Date
Company
Attn: (Insert contact person) Address
City, State & Zip
Dear Mr./Ms. (Insert last name),
The ornaments are put away, the tree is off to be recycled and the photos are being processed
...but there is one Christmas task left for us to do ... and that's to thank you!
We at The Salvation Army want to say a heartfelt thanks to you for stellar support of our "Team
Christmas" endeavors this year. We provided [insert #] toys to [insert #] children in our
community. This resulted in a brighter Christmas for many families in our area. We could not
have provided for these people without the generous support of people and businesses like you.
We truly appreciate your participation in our Toy Drive this year, and hope that you had a good
experience working with us. If you would be so kind as to return the enclosed survey to our
office, we would like to continue to develop our program and increase our service to the
community. Please either return it in this self-address stamped envelope, or fax it to me at [insert
fax number]. We truly appreciate your feedback!
Again, we are grateful for your assistance this Christmas, and look forward to working with you
again in the future. May the joy of Christmas extend well into the New Year for you, your
employees and your families!
(Insert Name, Title)
Visit us at our website
www.SalvationArmy-SoCal.org

Toy Drives
Sample Survey
The Salvation Army Christmas Toy Drive [insert year/community]
Business/Volunteer Name
Address
E-Mail
Phone Number
Contact Name
Please rate our office on the following criteria:
Poor Fair Good Great Comments
Clarity of communication
(Were we clear in sharing
the needs and how we
could work together?)
Timeliness of information
(Did you receive
information you needed in
a timely manner?)
Ease of participation
(Did we make it easy for
you to partner with us?)
Do you have any other comments/suggestions to share with us?
We truly appreciate your feedback and would like to know how to facilitate a better
partnership in the future. If you have any specific situations/issues that you would like to
bring to our attention, please share it with us! These surveys will be read by our Corps
Officer and followed through with appropriately.