Small Acts, Big Impact: Celebrating Volunteers During National Volunteer Week
High school students are proving that even a few hours of their time can make a lasting impact. For National Volunteer Week, Northville High School Rotary Interact Club member, Jaya, shares how her club helped during The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Christmas Campaign – and what that experience meant for the group.
Q: What inspired your club to volunteer as bell ringers?
A: Our club is all about volunteering, so we’re always looking for new opportunities. Bell ringing felt like a great fit—it’s easy for students to participate in, and it creates a positive impact in the community.
Q: How many students participated and what did that look like?
A: We had about 10 to 15 members volunteer for two-hour shifts in November and December. We organized sign-ups and most people rang in small groups with friends, which made it more fun and social.
Q: What was the experience like for you?
A: It was such a positive environment. We rang bells in downtown Northville, and everyone was already in a good mood for the holidays. People were really willing to interact and give—it made the experience even better.
Q: Was there a moment that stood out to you?
A: Definitely. A young girl asked her mom if she could donate, and she put the money in the kettle herself. It was just really heartwarming to see someone so young want to give back.
Q: How much impact did your group make?
A: We only volunteered for about six hours total, but we raised just over $1,000. That was really surprising—and exciting—to learn.
Q: What did this experience teach you about volunteering?
A: I learned that giving doesn’t have to be something big. Even just a couple of hours of your time can make a huge difference, especially for students who may not have money to donate but still want to help.
Q: Why do you think the Red Kettle Campaign is important?
A: Seeing how much we raised in just a few shifts made me realize how many people can be helped. Even if it changes just one person’s life, that’s still a really big impact.
Q: What would you say to other students who are thinking about volunteering?
A: Bell ringing might not seem appealing at first—like standing outside in the cold—but once you’re there, you feel this sense of warmth from seeing people give. And it’s even better when you do it with friends.
Q: What’s next for your club?
A: We definitely want to continue volunteering with The Salvation Army. It’s been really easy to organize and a great experience overall.
Through their time, energy and enthusiasm, Jaya and the Northville High School Rotary Interact Club are showing that even a few hours volunteering can make a meaningful difference.
Ready to make an impact? Visit our volunteer page to learn about other opportunities with The Salvation Army and find a way to get involved in your community.