Aurora, Ill. — Dec. 20, 2025 — Shoppers heading into the west Aurora Jewel-Osco last month were greeted by the familiar sound of ringing bells — and by volunteers giving their time to help neighbors in need during the holiday season.
Members and friends of the Aurora Lions Club raised $1,515 for the Salvation Army Aurora Corps’ 2025 Red Kettle campaign while serving as bell ringers Nov. 21–22 outside the grocery store.
According to Jay Short, the Lions Club’s first vice president and service co-chair, about 20 volunteers participated, including 15 Lions members, two non-members, and several family volunteers. Among them was 14-year-old Nicholas Sookoo, an eighth grader at Fred Rogers Magnet Academy, who volunteered alongside his father, Vinood Sookoo.
Nicholas, who serves as president of his school’s National Junior Honor Society, said volunteering was an opportunity to give back during the holiday season while supporting a cause that helps local families.
The Salvation Army Aurora Corps has set a $200,000 fundraising goal for its annual Red Kettle Christmas campaign, according to Major Joaquin Rangel. Funds raised locally help support food assistance, utility aid, and emergency services throughout the Aurora area.
Founded in 1922, the Aurora Lions Club is celebrating its second century of service to the community under the organization’s long-standing motto, “We Serve.” The club focuses its efforts on causes including vision and hearing health, hunger relief, environmental initiatives, diabetes awareness, and childhood cancer support.
The Aurora Lions Club is open to men and women interested in community service and meets at noon on the first and third Thursdays of each month at Riverview Diner, 1420 S. River Road, Montgomery. Due to the holidays, the next meeting will be held Thursday, Jan. 15. Prospective members are welcome.
For more information, call (630) 707-2870 or visit auroralionsclub.org.
