Watertown Salvation Army Sets New Fundraising Record, Exceeds $100,000 Goal
- Steve Jurrens
- Feb 25
- 2 min read
Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - The Salvation Army of Watertown has officially “wrapped” its 2025 Christmas campaign, and the results are nothing short of monumental. In a recent interview on Northeast Radio SD, Captain Dennis Jolly announced that the community blew past its fundraising targets, raising a staggering $353,000—shattering the original goal of $244,000.
The success of the campaign, which concludes annually at the end of January to finalize all numbers, serves as a testament to the local spirit.
Captain Jolly admitted that the middle of the season often brings nerves as he watches the numbers roll in. “My wife takes a good deal of the brunt of me freaking out,” Jolly joked, noting that despite the seasonal panic, the community consistently exceeds expectations.
The 2025 Honor Roll: Award Winners
The celebration wasn’t just about the money; it was about the people behind the kettles. Last Monday, the Salvation Army hosted an awards ceremony for 89 attendees to recognize those who went above and beyond:
· Volunteer of the Year & Top Bell Ringer: Dennis Bentien, who logged a massive 46 hours at the kettles and raised over $5,000 individually.
· Organization of the Year: KWAT Watertown Radio, recognized for their consistent support and airtime.
· Newest Core Volunteer: Karen Pruitt.
· Newest Store Volunteer: Jennifer Joiner.
· The Mission Award: Presented to the Watertown Kiwanis Club for their dedication to meeting human needs.
· Hall of Fame Awards: Given to long-standing pillars Judy Johnson and Betty Bentien, who Jolly noted have been with the Army “longer than I’ve been alive”.
The Shamrocks’ “Ambassador” Impact
A significant portion of this year’s victory is attributed to the Watertown Shamrocks, who served as the campaign’s honorary chairs and “Christmas Ambassadors”. The hockey team logged over 70 hours of bell-ringing and raised more than $5,000.
Jolly credited their visibility—from ringing bells to helping parents shop for the Angel Tree program—for encouraging others to give. Notably, Shamrock player Memphis Wilcox joined the elite ranks by logging 16 individual hours.
Where the Money Goes
With a surplus of $109,000 over their budget, Captain Jolly and his wife met to increase funding for all social service programs. The money is funneled back into the community through:
· Emergency Assistance: Rent, utilities, and emergency hotel stays.
· Food Security: Supporting the New Meal Program (free lunch), food boxes, and the pantry.
· Medical & Household Support: Prescription help, clothing vouchers, and transportation assistance.
“Eighty-two cents of every dollar raised stays right here in Watertown," Jolly noted. “When people give to the Army, they are trusting us with their hard-earned money to help other people”.
