Steven J. Powell, Vincennes, Ind., a lifelong member of Modern Woodmen of America, was recognized as a Fraternal MVP (Most Valuable Participant) for the week of Feb. 4, 2008, by the National Fraternal Congress of America. Fraternal MVPs are “Fraternalists-in-Action” who volunteer their time and energy to strengthen their communities through participation in local lodge activities and other charitable endeavors.
Despite being forced into retirement by health problems 10 years ago, Steve has continued to make volunteering a priority. “People helping people,” Steve says. “It doesn’t get any better than that!”
Steve is the coordinator for the Self Help and Resource Exchange food program. In this role, he is responsible for organizing an intergenerational team of 30-35 workers from three local organizations to transport, set and distribute the food. He is also the county coordinator of the Commodity Supplemental Food Program for Seniors and works with the Disabled American Veterans chapter to drive veterans to their appointments at VA hospitals.
He volunteers at the Indiana Military Museum, sits on the advisory councils for Generations United and RSVP and was appointed to the Vincennes City Board of Zoning Appeals by the mayor two years ago. He ushers at the Red Skelton Performing Arts Center and raises funds for Harbor House, a local shelter for victims of domestic violence.
Steve served nearly five years in the Army, worked for the Social Security Administration and retired from the U.S. Postal Service in 1998. He and his wife, Vicki, enjoy the comaraderie at Modern Woodmen Camp No. 12581's dinners and activities.
The 121-year-old NFCA unites 75 not-for-profit fraternal benefit societies operating in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Canada. The association represents 10 million fraternalists in 37,000 local chapters, making it one of America’s largest member-volunteer networks.
Founded in 1883 as a fraternal benefit society, Modern Woodmen of America celebrates 125 years of serving members and their communities. The organization offers financial services and fraternal member benefits to individuals and families throughout the United States.