The Salvation Army will begin its annual Christmas campaign on Nov. 15.

The goal of the 2013 kettle drive, $254,500, is necessary to continue services in Freeborn County.

“A few hurdles must be over taken in order to meet the goals this year,” said Capt. Jim Brickson, administrator of the local organization.

The Salvation Army has deep roots in Albert Lea but the presence has changed over the last 10 years as a leader of compassion and meeting the un-met need.

“It was about letting the community be part of the solution,” Brickson said about what changed.

Unlike other kettle locations, Albert Lea’s kettle locations are completely staffed by volunteers. In doing so, this keeps the Christmas goal lower and allows for all the donations collected to go directly to the intended programs.

As of Tuesday there were 1,400 hours left to be signed up for.

“You can stand to make a change,” Brickson said. “Often service clubs or even families block off an entire day and organize volunteers for a specific location. Giving in this way can’t be replaced.”

Kettle volunteers are asked to commit to a two-hour shift at one of seven locations around the city. This year’s locations are the same as last year; Hy-Vee, Nelson’s Market Place, Walgreens, Northbridge Mall, Shopko and two locations at Walmart.

Those interested in signing up for ringing the bell can contact The Salvation Army at 373-5710 or visit its website at http://salvationarmynorth.org/community/albert-lea/ and follow the link “Ring A Bell.”