Q&A: Jason Thorne, A Salvation Army Volunteer

In this column, we'll sit down with people all over Arnold for a quick, five-question interview with the intent to learn what makes them tick, and generally get to know them better.

If you’ve shopped for groceries at the Safeway in Arnold, you’ve probably heard the bell ringing of the Salvation Army.

But just who are the people who volunteer their time to help gather donations? Patch caught up with one of the volunteers this week to learn more about them and why they want to help.

Jason Thorne, 29, was zipped up in a hoodie, ringing his bell with his hands covered in his sleeves on a blustery day outside the Arnold Safeway. It was cold outside, but that wasn’t stopping him from driving donations toward the Salvation Army.

Q: How long have you been doing this?
A: This is my first year.

Q: What made you want to volunteer?
A: The Salvation Army helped my family out once. And so I just like to volunteer and pay my respects back to them. They do so much for so many people. This is just a small thing.

Q: Are people ever rude to you?
A: Not really rude, no. But some people look at you like you’re begging for money. Most people are respectful, though. Overall I’d say I probably get more smiles than frowns.

Q: Do you think hearing that bell makes people think of Christmas?
A: I think it is associated with Christmas, yeah. I think it probably makes them feel good when they hear it, and maybe puts them in a more giving mood.

Q: What do you do if it rains?
A: If it rains? I get wet.