Giving back with heart

Modern Woodmen of America representative Tina Graves, Lexington, Tennessee, has received the Fraternal Excellence Award. Modern Woodmen’s headquarters gives this annual award to the financial representative who best embodies the organization’s fraternal mission and goes above and beyond for their members and community.  

Fraternalism is what makes Modern Woodmen unique. Representatives of the fraternal financial services organization can make an impact in local communities through member benefits and programs that offer financial support and social, educational and volunteer opportunities.  

“Our work goes beyond financial planning. It’s about making a real difference in people’s lives,” says Tina, who started at Modern Woodmen in 2009. “My mother was also a financial representative, so I grew up with Modern Woodmen. I was taught by the best what it means to give back.” 

Among many other projects, Tina has: 

• Organized a 5K glow run to help a young mother establish a foundation in her late son’s name. 

• Created blessing boxes full of gifts, treats and handwritten notes for a retirement home. 

• Planned a Christmas breakfast for the homeless.  

“Knowing we can make even a small difference in the lives of others is the greatest gift of all,” Tina says.  

For earning this recognition, Tina will receive $2,500 to use toward her next volunteer project.  

“No matter where or how I serve, my goal remains the same,” she says. “I want to make a positive impact and uplift those around me, both within and beyond Modern Woodmen’s fraternal mission.” 

About Modern Woodmen 

Modern Woodmen of America was founded in 1883 to clear financial burdens – not trees. As a fraternal financial services organization, Modern Woodmen’s products and programs support financial security, quality family life and community impact – the common bonds that unite our members nationwide.