WAYNE, DELAWARE COUNTIES, Ind. – With the holiday season fast approaching, The Salvation Army of Muncie and Richmond is welcoming new leadership and calling on the community to help meet growing local needs.
Majors Charles and Kathleen Pinkston were recently appointed as Corps Officers for both the Muncie and Richmond locations. This is their first time overseeing dual communities.
Majors Charles and Kathleen Pinkston have served with The Salvation Army for 25 years, most recently in La Porte, Indiana. They were appointed to Richmond at the end of June and Muncie at the beginning of September.
While they bring a passion for outreach and commitment to meeting local needs, the timing of moving to a new location close to the holidays can bring increased pressure.
“We’re figuring out how we’re going to accomplish everything that needs to be done in a timely manner,” said Major Charles Pinkston.
The Pinkston’s are stepping into their new roles just as the organization launches its annual Red Kettle Campaign, The Salvation Army’s signature fundraiser. This year’s campaign will kick off on November 17 and continue through December 24, with kettle sites open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Community members, families, service clubs, and organizations are invited to volunteer as bell ringers to help support local programs that provide assistance throughout the year.
Currently, Richmond has 149 volunteer shifts filled, with more than 1,000 that are remaining. Muncie has 385 spots filled and over 1,200 still open.
“It’s definitely not about us, it’s about the community and the community is in great need,” Pinkston said. “We really just need help from the local communities to be able to supply food for our food pantry throughout the year or be able to offer rental or utility assistance.”
Pinkston said The Salvation Army is known for filling gaps where maybe there isn’t help available elsewhere in town.
Those interested in volunteering can sign up for a time and location at RegisterToRing.com or contact the Muncie or Richmond Salvation Army offices directly for more information.
