Red Bells are ringing, as La Crosse’s Salvation Army looks to other organizations to help keep services going

It’s a bounce back year for the Red Kettle Campaign in La Crosse.

After setting the record for money raised two years ago, the bell ringing campaign set lofty goals last season but fell short.

In 2017, the Red Kettle campaign raised a record $925,785 – the highest total in Salvation Army of La Crosse history.

Trying to keep pace, the Salvation Army set a $949,500 goal but raised $799,828.90.

This year, the goal is $850,000.

Nick Ragner, with the organization, says it’s part of an overall shift in thinking.

“We’re trying to look toward more collaboration and partnering with other agencies,” he said. “Understand that there are things that we’re doing that we could partner with other organizations. Work together to make that service or that program that much better.”

You can sign up online for bell ringing shifts here or donate here.

Match Days at Red Kettles throughout La Crosse County:

-11/10: Brenengen Auto Group matches up to $15,000 at all kettles throughout La Crosse County

-12/4: Anonymous donor matches up to $10,000 at kettles at Valley View Mall

-12/8: TBD

-12/12: Break the Bank where area banks and credit unions pledge dollars to challenge community contributions

-12/15: Collective Match Day where various businesses and organizations match dollars at specific kettles sites

-12/22: Anonymous donor matches up to $17,000 at kettles throughout La Crosse County

*donations made below during Match Days will be counted toward those totals*