OAKLAND, Tenn. — At the Kroger in Oakland, you’ll find Red Kettle bell ringer Natasha Dennis. She’s become what one could call a town celebrity.
Dennis has been volunteering as a bell ringer for the Salvation Army for seven years.
“I just love doing it. I love Oakland. They’re beautiful people,” said Dennis.
And they love her.
If you couldn’t tell by their smiles, hugs and donations — they’ll also be quick to tell you.
“She’s awesome. She’s a sweet, precious lady. She’s a Christmas blessing,” said one shopper who said she looks forward to seeing Dennis every year.
Dennis said she loves music and dancing.
“I’ve had lights up. I’ve got a gingerbread suit I put on and it lights up. I go out in the street and dance.”
But more than anything:
“I love to inspire people and I like to bring love to people. When you give love, love will come back to you,” Dennis said. “Whether they give a donation, whether they don’t – it doesn’t matter. It makes me feel good. They come by, they give me hugs. They give me a donation, whether it small or big, it doesn’t matter.”
While not ringing the bells, Dennis is a wedding decorator. Surely making people smile everywhere she goes.
You can help us reach our $901,000 Salvation Army goal by donating at any red kettle or online at Kettle901.org.
