Franklin, Wis. (SPECTRUM NEWS)- Nicki Koehler has been a bell ringer for the Oak Creek Salvation Army for 23 years.
“I love doing this,” she says. “I love the people.”
She sits with a smile, ringing the Salvation Army bell. For many people, it’s a tell-tale symbol of the holiday season.
For Nicki, it’s a way of life. Her life looks a bit different.
“Both my parents are gone and my two sisters are out of town so, just something quiet at home,” Nicki says, as she reflects on how she’ll spend the holidays.
In many ways, Nicki says bell-ringing has given her an outlet and a way to keep moving.
“I hurt myself in the factory,” Nicki says. “I lifted buckets and it caused herniated disks and over the years since '80 or '81, it’s caused degenerative disk disease.”
Despite all of this, Nicki keeps smiling and saying a heartfelt “good morning” to everyone who walks by her.
“Depending on what store you’re at, people will come to expect you, and you’ll actually make friends,” Nicki says.
The Salvation Army bell. A symbol of hope, as is Nicki.
“The bell ringing is a symbol of the Salvation Army, but at the same time, I think I do it in my sleep,” Nicki says, with a laugh.
The Salvation Army of Milwaukee is hosting a free Christmas dinner from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on December 25th. For more information, click here. Attendance is typically around 8,000 people.
Local churches across Wisconsin are also holding Christmas dinners for those in need throughout the state. Check with the church nearest you, if you'd like to attend.