Ringing Endorsement: Woods at Cedar Run team proves ‘You’re never too old to ring the bell’

CAMP HILL, Pa. - Nov. 11, 2014 - PRLog -- The date has been marked on the calendar at The Woods at Cedar Run for months.

    The senior living community’s staff and residents peered to November 13 with anticipation and determination. Much like an athlete preparing for a big game, The Woods team is ready to play – and make a difference for a great cause.

    The Salvation Army’s Harrisburg Capital City Region “Battle of the Bells” is both the most challenging and rewarding service project of the year involving The Woods at Cedar Run. This year, The Woods has adopted the slogan “You’re never too old to ring the bell.” The “Battle of the Bells” begins for The Woods team on November 13 and continues throughout the holiday season.

    “Every dollar collected through our team’s efforts will stay in our area to help local adults and children in need,” said Julie Seifried, Activities Director at The Woods at Cedar Run. “Our team of staff and residents looks forward to the Battle of the Bells every year. It’s an exciting holiday competition that supports the services provided by the Salvation Army year-round.”

    The Woods at Cedar Run has maintained a level of excellence, earning status as the Battle of the Bells Grand Champion in 2013 and 2011, and Bell Ringer Champion in 2012.

    The Grand Champion award recognizes the overall highest total of donations. The Bell Ringer title recognizes ringing the bells for 60-plus hours and raising the most money in the red kettles.

    “Of course along with their ultimate goal, which is to raise monies for the cause, is a goal to maintain bragging rights and support the fact that age has no relevance when doing the greater good,” said Seifried, who noted The Woods team typically works 23 five-hour shifts of bell-ringing.

    Additionally, The Woods raises money by handing out desktop kettles to family and friends, utilizing online kettles, and through social media.

    “The Salvation Army is one of the most recognized and trusted non-profits in the world,” Seifried said. “82 cents of every dollar contributed to the Salvation Army goes directly to services and programs for people in need in their local communities. It’s a great cause, and the Battle of the Bells is a great way to raise money for those in need.”