Bell ringer shares ‘singing selfies,’ encourages others to join (video)
(Watch video) It’s that time of year again, where volunteers are encouraged to sign up for bell ringing this Christmas season. And you’ll be in good company. Past volunteer bell ringers have included celebrities, athletes, doctors, lawyers, next door neighbors (go ahead, ask them), and motivational speakers like Mark Lundquist.
The World is a Stage
A natural on stage, Lundquist not only rings his bell near his Fargo home, but he simultaneously belts out Christmas tunes and somehow does it all while taking a “video selfie.”
“My favorite thing is if I’m outdoor bell ringing, once you get out of the car, you hear my voice,” explained Lundquist. “Of course you can hear that distinctive Salvation Army bell ringing too and people would tell me that because they heard the singing they decided to give an extra time.”
According to his bio, Lundquist has performed live for 1,000,000 people in 44 states and 22 countries around the world. He travels near and far to deliver keynote addresses for businesses, colleges and also performs the National Anthem at college and professional sporting events. But he says none of that compares to his experience as a volunteer bell ringer.
“It’s not a stadium full of people, but it’s one of the coolest things I’ve done,” said Lundquist. Because when he donates his time and bell rings, he gets back as much as he gives.
“They’ll put money in the kettle, and they’ll tell you ‘thank you’ for being out there in the cold,” exclaimed Lundquist. “After they’re giving money, they’re thanking you. That’s a cool thing to be a part of, so when you bell ring for The Salvation Army you get something out of it too.”
Chops or Not, You Can Ring
Even if you don’t have Lindquist’s vocal skills, your time is a great gift this holiday season. Volunteers are the difference between an empty kettle and one that raises about $30 per hour – enough to provide a family with two bags of groceries.
Simply sign up online for a shift at a kettle near you on a day that fits your schedule. Shifts range from 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on your location. It only takes a few minutes to sign up, but the experience will last a lifetime.
“You see the best of society,” explained Lundquist. “You see people that want to help give and support a great cause, and I just think it’s time well spent.”