Excitement filled the air of the crowded train depot in Caldwell, Idaho. More than 450 friends and community members packed in to enjoy the sights, sounds and tastes of an event that included a performance by master fingerstyle guitarist Doyle Dykes. Doyle even cancelled a show at the Grand Ole Opry to play in the town approximately 30 miles west of Boise.

What brought this many community members together? Local resident Don Christensen. Don was facing rising medical expenses, and Modern Woodmen members wanted to help.

Modern Woodmen representatives Mickey Shields and Patrick Harting recognized a local need. A longtime Caldwell resident, business owner and musician, Don was a staple in the community and was battling pancreatic cancer. Many community members felt strongly about helping Don and his family through this difficult time.

“You have to share the heart of the cause,” Mickey says. “We showed our passion for helping people, and the others personalized and owned it.”

These members from Idaho are not alone. Modern Woodmen members across the country identify local needs and meet them through the Matching Fund Program. Modern Woodmen’s home office matches proceeds from approved fundraisers, up to $2,500 per year for camp (local adult chapter) projects, and up to $500 per year for youth service club projects. In 2007, Matching Fund projects pumped nearly $6.2 million into communities nationwide. These dollars go toward local projects, community services or to help an individual in need.

Every Matching Fund project begins with a need – simple or complex. A local school needs new playground equipment … the library is trying to expand its offerings to the community … a volunteer fire department needs new safety gear. Camp and youth club members make a decision and gain additional support for a local need. There are many needs in every community, but the key to the Matching Fund Program is that a camp or youth club focuses on one at a time.

Caldwell camp members hustled and bustled on Sept. 1, 2007, preparing for the variety of events that evening. Guests enjoyed music, bid on items at an auction and dined on sandwiches and potato chips. Many volunteers ensured success – from ticket-takers to concession workers. The event had the backbone of planning, and it went off without a hitch.

The hard work paid off, and Don and his family received a check for $26,057.87.

After completing this successful project, members of the Caldwell chapter were energized and looking forward to meeting another community need. The camp is just another example of Modern Woodmen members making a difference in their communities who take simple, organized steps to make a big impact.