Bells begin to ring for The Salvation Army of Waterloo/Cedar Falls' annual Red Kettle Campaign Wednesday. 

The official 2026 Red Kettle Kickoff Event will be this Friday, November 6, during the Black Hawks' 6:35 p.m. game against the Lincoln Stars at Young Arena. The entire community is invited to join The Salvation Army of Waterloo/Cedar Falls for this annual campaign to support local individuals and families in need. 

Additional event details can be found in the "Events" section of The Salvation Army website.

Meanwhile, Bell Ringers are taking their places across the community to help raise vital funds supporting local programs and services.

This year's Red Kettle goal is $224,500, which will help provide food, shelter, emergency assistance, and year-round support to families and individuals in need throughout Black Hawk County.

"The Red Kettle Campaign is possibly the most important way we raise needed resources to serve the Black Hawk County community throughout the year," shared Ellie Rogaczewski, Volunteer and Community Relations Director for The Salvation Army of Waterloo/Cedar Falls. "Every donation that is dropped into a Kettle, or online, stays in this community and is put into action helping local families find hope and stability. We rely on the generosity of our community each Red Kettle season to allow us to continue providing hope and meeting needs long after the holidays have passed."

Community members are encouraged to get involved by volunteering as a Bell Ringer. Shifts are flexible and family-friendly, offering a great way to give back this holiday season. Interested volunteers can sign up for a shift online at https://volunteer.salvationarmyusa.org . Just search for opportunities by zip code.

"Whether you give an hour of your time or a few dollars at a kettle, you're helping us meet the growing needs of our neighbors," Rogaczewski added. "Together, we can make this season bright for everyone in the Cedar Valley."

For more information about volunteering or donating to the Red Kettle Campaign, please contact: Ellie Rogaczewski, Volunteer and Community Relations Director at (319)235-9358 x102 or ellie.rogaczewski@usc.salvationarmy.org.

Good seats for Friday's game are available, and the matchup features a variety of promotions and special offers.  Learn more here.