One Kettle Volunteer’s Inspiring Commitment

If you happen to be in Fredericton during the holiday season and spot a Salvation Army kettle, chances are Lyle Hay will be there ringing bells.

For 26 years straight, Lyle has shown incredible commitment to The Salvation Army’s Kettle Campaign in Fredericton by volunteering and collecting thousands of dollars that ultimately help many families across Canada through the organization’s services.

His dedication has made him a recognizable figure in the local community and he is affectionately known as the “kettle king.”

Lyle’s desire to help others is what drives him each year.

“I first got involved when I started attending a Salvation Army church. I am a man of God and I like to help people who don’t have much,” Lyle shares.

“I like to help people who don’t have much.”

Whenever the month of November comes around, Lyle is ready to serve as a volunteer. In fact, he says he looks forward to it each year. He has a set routine and often takes multiple shifts per day.

“Every day I go over to The Salvation Army and help them count the money. Then at 12 p.m. I come to the kettle.”

Due to his popularity, many donors come specifically when Lyle is at a kettle to drop off their contributions. One of his other motivations to help every year is to meet new people and reconnect with the friends he has made along the way.

“So many people come to see me. On my first day back this year, some hugged me and said they were glad to see me. I have a lot of respect for donors and they have respect for me,” he adds.

“I have a lot of respect for donors.”

Lyle’s nickname isn’t just thanks to his constant presence. He is often also the volunteer who collects the most donations.

Although Lyle is unsure why he is always able to raise so much, he believes that showing respect goes a long way. He is always thankful to everyone who contributes.

“I thank everyone and they leave very happy.”

One of his fondest memories during Christmas was when a group of people came to donate $10,000 to his kettle.

Thanks to the friendships he built through his work, many donors often come to him multiple times per week.

“Some come every day to put money in the kettle. The first thing they do is ask if I am there. If I am not, they wait for me,” Lyle says.

Now in his 26th year, Lyle’s commitment remains as strong as ever. He hopes to continue being present at kettles during Christmas for as long as he can.

By Juan Romero