Once you've asked for donations in a public place, you just don't feel the same as you pass them by.
Case in point: last weekend I stood with Kiwanis president Natalie Colgan as we sought donations at Kroger for the IVC Kiwanis Club, which supports the IVC Key Club, as well as other Chillicothe non-profit groups. In exchange, we gave them peanuts. Other groups do the same sort of thing -- Knights of Columbus' tootsie rolls, Lions Club (was it lifesavers?) and the VFW with its poppies.
Natalie was talking about how you feel differently about the process after you've done it.
If you've never asked for donations in a public place, it can be a great time or a time when the clock doesn't seem to be in your favor.
With the Salvation Army bell ringing, you have a bell to ring, so that keeps you busy.
But what's interesting is how people respond to you.
Whether you donate or not, I like to say hello and make eye contact. Some people don't give you the opportunity as they do not make eye contact.
It's a great time to see people you haven't seen in a while and that makes it fun. Standing with a friend when there's a lull also helps.
Bell ringing was the first time I had stood and asked for donations, at least that I can remember. (Side note: bell ringing begins soon. Groups are welcome to ring or it may be individuals or families. You can donate one hour or more. Call Ed Dutton if you are interested.)
Chillicotheans truly are a very generous people. And I can't tell you how nice it is to see parents teaching their children donate.
For me, the experiences in the last 10 years have given me a new appreciation for people trying to aid their cause.
Even if I don't donate, I say hello and make eye contact, knowing that is what I want when I stood in their shoes.
