Modern Woodmen members improve their communities

It’s like a snowball or a train running down the tracks.

That’s how member Lowanda Johnston, Sesser, Ill., sees Modern Woodmen fraternalism: community-minded activities that keep growing and going to make a positive impact.

“People see you doing things, and they ask … did you plant those flowers … can you help with this or that?” Lowanda explains. “It makes me feel real proud.”

Lowanda is just one example of Modern Woodmen fraternalism in action – members supporting projects that improve quality of life. Here we share a glimpse of two areas of the country touched by members who make their communities better places to live.

Southern Illinois spirit

Lowanda Johnston agreed to be Sesser’s Modern Woodmen youth service club leader on a temporary basis. That was 10 years ago. She also runs the Modern Woodmen camp [adult chapter] in neighboring Benton.

“Now I wish I’d taken it on 10 years sooner!” she says.

Lowanda and her members have taken on many projects, including those at the city park, hub of activity for Sesser’s 2,000 residents. Every June, her youth club members help get the park ready for the homecoming celebration. The kids pick up trash, set up chairs and decorate the stage.

“It teaches the kids,” Linda says. “If they’re taught to get involved when they’re younger, they’re more apt to do it when they’re older.”

Members like Lowanda have gained a reputation for helping others. When the representative at the Child Advocacy Office needed a resource to help a 17-year-old who hadn’t had new school clothes in three years, she called Lowanda. Through the Help A Child Program, the club purchased T-shirts, shoes, jeans and school supplies.

Northwest Ohio know-how

An official All-America City. One of the 100 best cities to raise a family.

Maumee, Ohio, is a great place to live. Just ask Tim Wagener. The Modern Woodmen member and district representative should know – he’s the mayor.

Modern Woodmen fraternalism is part of the area’s success. Modern Woodmen programs in Northwest Ohio contributed nearly $25,000 to community projects during the first three quarters of 2006.

“It [fraternal activities] makes you proud of the organization,” Tim says. “It’s not only there to help our members, but it helps the surrounding areas as well.

Tim recalls a favorite fraternal project where his camp raised $7,000 for a client of his who was dying of brain cancer.

“I was so proud of Modern Woodmen for coming to her aid,” Tim says. “Finding people who need the help in the area – it’s wonderful for the community. It shows that we have quality members. Members who want to give back to their community in many ways.”

Members who take time to make their community a better place to live.