That big, booming voice you hear asking for donations this holiday season may just belong to John Verge. But John has an equally big heart, and he has been a bell ringer for the Salvation Army for over 30 years.

You see these bell ringers around town every December, and more than likely have contributed to the charity at some point. Of course, the Salvation Army organization helps people all year round.

When asked why he has done it all these years, Verge says “Because it’s a great way of giving back to those who are in need, not just for the holidays.”

He may not be dressed as a Santa, but you will definitely hear a few “Ho-ho-hos.”

Verge first started helping the Salvation Army and its Red Kettle Campaign back in 1986. For the first few years, he was assigned all over Middle Tennessee.

“John Verge is a treasure to our community. His volunteerism has helped The Salvation Army raise the money needed to operate our shelter and feeding programs,” John Mitchell, community relations director of the local Salvation Army.

These days, Mr. Verge stays a bit more local. Many remember him as the gentleman who stood outside the old K-Mart, where he spent 25 seasons volunteering.

John says the most memorable experience was in 1995, when a baby stroller got away from a family. Like in a scene from a movie, he sprung into action and grabbed the baby from busy shopper traffic. He brought the baby back to a grateful family. Just chalk it up to another act of selflessness from John Verge.

But John doesn’t just help kids at Christmas time. His full-time job is at the Boys & Girls Club of Murfreesboro,  where he’s known by the kids as the “Snack Man.” Daily, he keeps kids engaged, feeds them and cleans up after them. You can also hear that booming voice as he announces their sporting events.

According to Kelly Davis, Director of Operations at the Boys & Girls Club “John has been a staple in our club for many years and he continues to make an impact every day. From being ‘The Voice’ during basketball and football games to serving healthy meals to our members, to mentoring, John takes great pride in all he does.”

Verge has worked there since 1998. He says it is rewarding to serve so long with an organization. “Now I’m taking care of their children and their children’s children,” John says, remembering some of the first youngsters he worked with.

Again, you can hear that booming voice every other Tuesday at a Toastmaster club, where he is very involved. He currently serves as one of the officers for the Heart of Tennessee Toastmasters Club. The organization helps those who are afraid of public speaking to gain more confidence in their communication skills. Verge admits it took him a long time before he felt comfortable enough to present.

“John reminds us at club meetings that it took him a few years before he would participate. He is our current VP of public relations, and encourages members and guests,” said Angela Braach, president of the club. “He was one of the first people to welcome me to the club five years ago. I have learned so much from him!”

In September, Murfreesboro honored Verge by giving him the key to the city, a well-deserved accolade for someone who has given so much. So, how will John serve the community in the future? It’s hard to say, but he will certainly be at one of the large retailers in Murfreesboro. When you see (and hear) him, be certain to say hello. Of course, the best way to show your gratitude is to contribute a few dollars to the Red Kettle.

For more information on becoming a bell ringer yourself, contact john.r.mitchell@uss.salvationarmy.org or 615-895-7071.

The Heart of Tennessee Toastmasters Club meets the first, third and fifth Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Keller Williams office, 450 St. Andrews Dr.