Salvation Army of Spfld. announces Red Kettle winners

Republic High School, Ash Grove Mayor Smith make list of top bell ringers for 2025 fundraising
 

The Salvation Army of Springfield announced the winners of the 2025 Battle of the Bells-Area Schools Challenge, Lights & Ladders Challenge, Military Ring-Off, Red Kettle Bucket Blitz, and Mayoral Red Kettle Challenge. Each of these events recognizes outstanding community support during the annual Red Kettle Campaign.
Republic High School wins 2025 Battle of the Bells-Area Schools Challenge
Republic High School has been named the champion of the 2025 Battle of the Bells-Area Schools Challenge! Students from RHS raised over $4,902 and dedicated 270 volunteer hours ringing bells throughout the campaign. Their incredible commitment to serving the community has earned them the Golden Kettle, which will be presented during an upcoming RHS home basketball game. The Salvation Army extends its appreciation to all participating schools, including Ozark, Nixa, and Willard High Schools, for their contributions.
Ash Grove Mayor Smith wins 2025 Mayoral Red Kettle Challenge
Mayor Caleb Smith of Ash Grove emerged victorious in the 2025 Mayoral Red Kettle Challenge, raising over $240 in less than two hours while ringing bells at Bass Pro Shops. His commitment to giving back to the community will be recognized with the Mayoral Challenge Golden Kettle, which will be presented at an upcoming city council meeting. The Salvation Army is grateful for the participation of former Mayor Ken McClure (Springfield), Mayor Eric Franklin (Republic), Mayor Jarad Giddens (Nixa) and Mayor Don Currence (Ozark), whose efforts helped make this year’s challenge a success.
Springfield Police Department wins 2025 Lights & Ladders Challenge
The Springfield Police Department won the 2025 Lights & Ladders Challenge, a bellringing competition between the Springfield Police and Fire Departments. SPD officers rang 12 hours and raised $580.30 for the 2025 Red Kettle Campaign. This overwhelming show of support results in the presentation of the Golden Kettle, which will stay within the department for the remainder of the year. The Salvation Army is grateful to both departments for their dedication to serving those in need in our community.

United States Navy recruiters win the 2025 Military Ring-Off
The United States Navy Recruiters are victorious in the 2025 Military Ring-Off. Recruiters rang a total of 16 hours at the kettles and raised over $406. The esteemed Golden Kettle will be presented to the office and will remain there for the rest of 2026. The gift of time from those that serve our country is immensely appreciated, and The Salvation Army would like to thank all the military branches that participated in support of the 2025 Red Kettle Campaign.

Elks Lodge #409 Wins 2025 Red Kettle Bucket Blitz
The Elks Lodge #409 has claimed the title of 2025 Red Kettle Bucket Blitz Champion, raising over $879 and volunteering 16 hours at the kettles. Their dedication to The Salvation Army’s mission made a significant impact, and they will be awarded the Golden Kettle at an upcoming Elks Lodge meeting. The Salvation Army thanks all area service organizations for their participation and encourages them to join the 2026 Red Kettle Bucket Blitz.