31 March 2015

“Red Kettle Luncheon” will raise funds to aid the needy in King County and honor Wilson for his generosity to the community.

The Salvation Army Northwest Division will honor Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson with its Arthur S. Langlie Award for visionary leadership at the annual Red Kettle Luncheon. The event, set for Friday, May 8, at the Sheraton in Downtown Seattle, will raise funds to help the hungry, homeless and hopeless in King County. The luncheon is presented by Bartell Drugs and Fred Meyer, two long-time supporters of The Salvation Army.

The Arthur S. Langlie Award, named in memory of long-time Advisory Board member and volunteer, is presented annually to someone who epitomizes leadership and selfless service to others. Past recipients are The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, The Seattle Times Fund for the Needy, and Kathy Holmgren, among others.

“There are few people who exemplify the generosity, leadership, and service to others as Russell Wilson,” commented Major Doug Tollerud, Divisional Commander of The Salvation Army in Washington, Northern Idaho, and Western Montana. “It is an honor to present this award to him. He is sure to inspire others to give more of themselves to help the community.”

Russell Wilson is known for his extraordinary performance on the field, leading the Seattle Seahawks to a Superbowl victory (2014) and NFC championship (2015). Off the field, Russell Wilson is an active volunteer and charitable fundraiser, including Seattle Children’s Hospital, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Russell Wilson Passing Academy (youth football camp), Charles Ray III Diabetes Association, and Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

“Throughout my career and travels, I’ve witnessed many people who are hurting,” commented Russell Wilson. “And I believe that we need reach out to help them. We can’t all do the work of The Salvation Army, but we can each do our small part. The Army works to help all of those in need and I appreciate their approach to a diverse support of a multitude of needs in our community.”

Arthur K. Langlie, son of Arthur Sheridan Langlie, is chair of the committee to select the recipient each year. “Many people are aware that Russell Wilson donates his time to help others – but most have no idea how much time he dedicates. Most of his service to others is not shared publicly – which is exactly what my father believed. If my dad were here today, I know he would be delighted that Russell’s leadership and service to others are recognized with this award.”

This year’s luncheon will highlight The Salvation Army’s Domestic Violence Programs. These are: a 24/7 crisis line for 'round the clock advice and support, a confidentially located shelter for those fleeing dangerous situations, longer term transitional housing as families move to independent living, and a non -residential program for ongoing case management and support. These confidential programs served 747 adults and children directly last year (284 adults and 463 children) and thousands more were assisted via telephone.

Donations raised at the Red Kettle Luncheon will help fund the domestic violence programs and other social services of The Salvation Army in King County.

The Red Kettle Luncheon will feature emcee Mark Wright (KING 5). In addition to the award presentation to Russell Wilson, the luncheon will include local media celebrities sharing their experiences about how The Salvation Army is helping throughout King County. Media guests will include Former UW and Seahawks quarterback Brock Huard (710 AM ESPN); Liz Dueweke and Bill Wixey (Q13 FOX); and John Carlson (Talk Radio 570 KVI).

In addition to presenting sponsors Bartell Drugs and Fred Meyer, the event is made possible by Gold sponsor John N. Gehlen Memorial Foundation. Silver sponsors include George Bartell, Foss Family Foundation, Tatley-Grund, and University Mechanical Contractors Inc.

To be a Table Captain, hosting 9 or more guests, or for sponsorship information, please call Bill Kaczaraba at (206) 217-1281 or Mallory Trujillo at (206) 217-1267.

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Unable to attend this year's event? Make a online donation!

The continued work of The Salvation Army relies on the generosity of donors. If you aren't able to attend the 2015 Red Kettle Luncheon, please consider making a donation to help fight hunger and provide social services in King County.

Click HERE to make a donation. Thank you!