Star Wars Fan Stands Guard for The Salvation Army

In the Star Wars universe, a Stormtrooper is an Imperial guard for the Galactic Empire, protecting Darth Vader. In George Marcarian’s world, his Stormtrooper is definitely on the side of good.  

For the last five years the Windsor resident has volunteered to collect funds for The Salvation Army’s Christmas Kettle Campaign while dressed in his homemade Stormtrooper costume. The Star Wars character attracts plenty of attention from both kids and adults. 

“I wanted to give back to the community and have fun doing it. When I did my first shift for The Salvation Army Kettle drive, I was hooked. I was drawing people of all ages. They would ask for a picture and donate,” George says.  

He usually does three kettle shifts each December and is sometimes joined by his son or friends and fellow Star Wars fans, who also dress as Stormtroopers.  

“The kettle was filling up every time I volunteered. It was very satisfying and overwhelming. I was surprised how much people would donate. I would get emotional at times too. Luckily, I was wearing my helmet. You don’t want to see a Stormtrooper cry.”  

George first started volunteering with The Salvation Army when he noticed that his workplace required more volunteers to give of their time in support of people in need in Windsor.   

“I told myself that I needed to get out and do my part. So, I signed up and started volunteering, but with a twist. I had a Stormtrooper costume and thought it would be fun to get dressed up and volunteer.”  

George says he will don the costume again at Christmas to assist The Salvation Army in maintaining programs and services for Windsor residents seeking compassionate welcoming care and assistance.  

“It’s been an annual event that I am committed to do. I want to continue to support them. I know that I’m making a difference in my own way.”