The October recipient of Orion Gives Back is The Salvation Army. 

The Salvation Army Memphis has been a force for good in our community for over 100 years.  They provide programs and services dedicated to combatting our city’s homelessness, addiction, poverty, and violence .  Aaron Keegan, Director of Special Events and Promotions for The Salvation Army and Kroc Memphis, shares information about their mission and efforts, and a special fundraiser this month:

Tell us about your role with The Salvation Army.

The Salvation Army has been in Memphis for 116 years. Over that time we’ve served this community in so many different ways. For the last 16 years, more than 12,000 men, women, and children have sought help for addiction and homelessness related problems. 70% of our graduated residents move into stable housing and 78% remain sober; that’s more than double the national average.

I’ve been with the organization for 2 years now and love what I do. Not only do I raise needed funds for our programs that battle addiction, homelessness, violence, and poverty, but I also make people aware of these issues through events that bring people of all backgrounds together for a common cause. 

As our slogan goes, I’m a part of Doing the Most Good.

In your opinion, what is the most important work that The Salvation Army organization does?

We love without discrimination and meet people at their need.

Tell us about this month’s fundraiser and the Battle of the Bells.

The 3rd Annual Battle of the Bells serves at The Salvation Army’s kickoff to Red Kettles. The Red Kettle Campaign is by far the most recognizable fundraising event The Salvation Army has in Memphis and around the world in 127 countries.

BOTB is a six month journey for local musicians.  More than 20 musicians entered the competition this year by uploading original songs. Music professionals, headed up by Ardent Studios, narrowed down our entries to 14.  These Top 14 will record their original song at Ardent Studios during the weekend of October 22/23.  Finally on November 19, we’ll hold our Battle of the Bells concert/competition and crown our 2016 BOTB Champion. These 14 artists will perform the song the song they uploaded and recorded, for our audience at The Salvation Army Kroc Center from 6-9pm. Audience and musical judges will vote for their favorite. Tickets available at: https://2016botbmemphis.eventbrite.com.

To learn more about the Salvation Army Memphis and ways you can help, visit http://salvationarmymemphis.org/.