The Salvation Army around the state is kicking off its annual bellringer volunteer search for the Red Kettle Campaign.

Businesses, families, individuals, clubs, schools, churches, unions and associations – including sororities, fraternities, businesses and civic organizations -- are invited to adopt-a-kettle in their community, whether it be once or for several times during the season. The campaign begins in November and ends on December 24.

Some areas still need coordinators. Their responsibility would be to oversee the campaign in their community. Tasks include scheduling bellringers and coordinating kettles.

Money raised is used to help local families, individuals and seniors. Types of assistance are determined by the local volunteer committee. Services are provided through the nearest Salvation Army facility or through volunteer service units in smaller communities. In the 48 counties of Upstate New York there are four area services in the larger metropolitan cities of Albany, Syracuse, Rochester and Buffalo, 47 service centers in smaller cities and 170 service units in towns and villages. For a complete list of corps and service units, go to www.redkettles.org.

For more information about volunteering anywhere around the state, an individual or group should call The Red Kettle Center (24/7) as soon as possible. The toll-free number is (877) 764-7259 or register on-line at www.redkettles.org.