A special message from our officers

Each day we open our doors and serve, you are with us. You are reflected in the smiles we see when we share, the prayers we are able to answer, the heart-to-heart conversations we have, the deeper level of service we are able to offer, and the trust that grows from them. You are in the ways we are able to keep households from unraveling.

The story of how our neighbors care for each other and support our work is a beautiful and ongoing testament to the power of community and kindness. We pull together and pull through episodic and catastrophic hardship. Disasters, inflation, shortages, and even the pandemic did not stop us from serving because of how this community believes in and works alongside us.   To celebrate the powerful heart of our community, The Fond du Lac Salvation Army chooses to turn the color of its iconic floor-length kettles from red to gold on December 1 and for the December portion of the Christmas Campaign.   

And now, we are honored to serve in memory of those our community has lost through the Golden Kettle Legacy Memorial.

On behalf of the staff, volunteers, officers and those we serve, THANK YOU for  this rich legacy of love. We are your Salvation Army, blessed to serve with you by our side and in our hearts.

Sincerely,

Your Salvation Army of Fond du Lac

Frequently asked questions

Q: How did the Golden Kettle Legacy Memorial begin?

A:  In 2022, an automobile accident took the lives of two members of the Osborn family, siblings Charley and Samantha. When Christmastime came, the family created The Golden Kettle Legacy Memorial with The Salvation Army of Fond du Lac to carry on good work in Fond du Lac County in memory of Samantha, Charley and other dearly departed who lived life from one good deed to the next. The hope that the Golden Kettles dotting the community would become a source of comfort, a small reminder of the value hopes and prayers The Salvation Army holds closely. 

"We know Christmas is especially tough for those who have empty chairs at the table, and we hope families would feel the compassion of our family and The Salvation Army circling around them when they see the golden kettles," Sandy Osborn shared. 

The Osborn Family launched the Golden Kettle Memorial Legacy on the first day of December during the 2023 Bucket Brigade, the annual community drive-up kettle collection spearheaded by KFIZ and The Fond du Lac Fire and Rescue Local 400. The family asked the community to match $20,000 and the community enthusiastically responded, raising money  to help The Salvation Army of Fond du Lac continue "being there" for Fond du Lac. We have seen the transformative power that comes from extending the message of love the legacy holds along with our services. What a joy!  

Q: How are Golden Kettle Legacy members remembered?

A: The Salvation Army humbly dedicates our service to the memory of individuals who helped grow compassion in our community during their time with us on Earth.

• One full-size Golden Kettle is permanently displayed in a place of honor at The Salvation Army Corps., 237 N Macy Street. It holds the names of Golden Kettle Memorial Legacy names. 
• Photos of legacy members are displayed throughout The Salvation Army of Fond du Lac Corps and Community Center. Their stories of kindness and impact are shared throughout the year, on social media.
• Our staff and ministry pray for each member and their families throughout the year. 
• Each member is remembered in conjunction with a program or service on The Salvation Army of Fond du Lac website. 
• Friends and family of the legacy members become an extended part of OUR family.  It is a joy to serve, visit, and pray together. 

Q: Who are the first hearts memorialized on the Golden Kettle Memorial? 

Charley Osborn & Samantha Richardson (pictured)

 

Q: How do I add a name to the Golden Kettle Legacy Memorial?

A: Golden Kettle Legacy memorial names can be added during The Salvation Army of Fond du Lac Christmas Campaign. Family, friends, church, businesses, organizations, and schools can request a name be added to the Golden Kettle Memorial by filling out this form.

 

 

 

 

 

Q: How can I support the Golden Kettle Legacy Memorial?

A: The Osborn Family established the Golden Kettle Legacy Memorial, and raises funds through a match they put forward during the annual Bucket Brigade, a special kettle collection sponsored by KFIZ and 107.1 The Bull. Family, friends and co-workers of those memorialized on the Golden Kettle often choose to contribute, ring bells alongside a Golden Kettle at Christmastime, volunteer alongside us in memory of their special someone throughout the year, and remember us in their prayers. Each is a blessing! 

This year's event is Friday, December, 6 and the match is $20,000.

Donate today!

Volunteer at Bucket Brigade