By David Westman
Community. Caring. Brotherhood. Service. Security. Peace of mind. All are terms that can stir the mind and heart. It is a rare opportunity when these ideals can be the basis for an organization, rarer still when two organizations’ core values align with service to the communities in which they live and work. This recently occurred at the annual Generous Hands, Inc. Fall Extravaganza at which Modern Woodmen of America made a contribution of $2,500.
According to Sheri Louis, Generous Hands executive director, this year’s fundraiser proceeds will go towards a $40 monthly Family Fare voucher to qualifying Vicksburg families, used for the purchase of bread, milk, eggs, fruit and vegetables. “It is a wonderful donation and it will directly benefit the families in our program and we are very grateful to the Modern Woodmen of America for their generosity to our organization and the community,” Louis said. The $2,500 gift will provide over 62 monthly vouchers to those families. Currently there are more than 160 families with more than 290 children eligible for this benefit.
There are over 20,000 members in the Michigan chapters of MWA. Annual fraternal contributions are nearly $280,000. In the past MWA has provided financial donations to the village of Vicksburg, Sunset Elementary, Vicksburg High School, the Athletic Boosters, and VHS Bands.
Modern Woodmen of America is a member-owned fraternal financial services organization with an office on Sprinkle Road in Kalamazoo. Since 1883, the national organization has brought people together, supported families and strengthened communities nationwide.
Generous Hands is a Vicksburg based non-profit organization with a mission “to benefit hungry children by addressing their physical, emotional, nutritional and educational well-being.” The organization was founded to support a need in the community and has grown and thrived with the generosity of donors and sponsors over the past 11 years.
The Fall Extravaganza is the primary fundraising annual activity for Generous Hands. Held at Lakeland Reformed Church on October 15, it featured an evening of music, food, silent auction and community involvement. Chef Ryan Soule (Oakwood Bistro) and Natalie Fuller (The Cheese Lady) provided great food, plenty of knowledge and entertained nearly 200 people. The silent auction featured over 50 items for bid and there were numerous items for purchase.