Ringing the bell with gratitude and purpose

Norman Chagnon bundled up against the cold on Sheep Davis Road, wearing a crimson Salvation Army hat, scarf and vest that covered his black leather coat.

As anyone approached the telltale Red Kettle, he rang a silver bell clutched in his orange-gloved hand.

“I like giving back to the community, plus to the people,” he said, his blue eyes glinting like the silver cross around his neck.

Chagnon is one of the regular bell ringers who stands outside this time of year collecting donations to help the charitable organization meet its fundraising goals.

This year, that amount is $60,000. With eight days to go before Christmas, they’re a little more than halfway there, said Joel Lyle, co-captain of the Concord Salvation Army with his wife, Kama.

The Lyles came to Concord three years ago from Maine and love the capital city’s spirit and generosity.

“We’re confident in the next week or so, we’ll get as close to our goal as possible,” he said.

One hiccup this year has been a shortage of bell ringers on certain days of the week. Most of the usual volunteers from the Lions Club, the Kiwanis Club and the Rotary Club, along with groups of students, signed up as they have in the past, but fewer community members overall have volunteered.

On a full day, Lyle may have eight bell ringers stationed at six locations in Concord — Walmart, Sam’s Club, Shaw’s and all three Market Baskets — because some of the larger stores can accommodate a kettle at each entrance.

On Tuesday, he had three volunteers.

“We don’t have the personnel to be out ringing the bell,” Lyle said. “That’s the biggest challenge.”

When the number of volunteers runs low, he tries to keep Market Basket on Storrs Street and Sam’s Club staffed at the very least. They’ll be out until Christmas, every day except Sunday.

The money raised goes to pay for toys, clothes and boots for children in families that are financially struggling. Portions go to support the food pantry and other programs like the McKenna House emergency shelter.

Chagnon has been ringing the bell for six years, since the Salvation Army provided him with a temporary place to live when he had none. With support, he now works two jobs, he said.

Ringing the bell is the least he can do to give back.

Chagnon’s station on Tuesday was Sam’s Club, where he rang away from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.

“I come out of myself and serve my community and serve my world through the Salvation Army,” Chagnon said. “The Salvation Army is a wonderful organization, and it has changed my life.”

How to help

If you want to volunteer at a Red Kettle or give to the Salvation Army call (603) 225-5586.

Editor’s Note: Geoff Forester contributed to this story.

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