Annual holiday project celebrates its 45th year
In 1972, a Modern Woodmen of America employee named Gale Harter put on a Santa Claus costume to visit a relative in a senior center. He mentioned his festive visit to his colleagues, and the Modern Woodmen employees collected dozens of gifts for “Santa” to deliver to the senior center’s residents. Thus, Project Santa began.
Every year since then, Modern Woodmen employees have honored and expanded on the tradition by purchasing gifts and joining Santa on his visits to sing carols with residents. The project also includes gift-giving to area families (nominated by employees) struck by unemployment, health issues or other unexpected troubles.
The role of Santa has changed over the years (Marc Carlson, a supervisor in Modern Woodmen’s Claim Department, is kicking off his tenth year as Santa), but the spirit behind the project remains the same: to spread good tidings during the holiday season.
Employees show their support in a number of ways, from participating in an annual raffle and denim-days donations to taking part in the visits and nominating families to receive gifts. With the combined efforts of over 500 employees, the project is able to make a big impact.
This year, more than 130 employees will be visiting, caroling and passing out treats at 10 area senior centers. Media participation is welcomed and appreciated.
· Amber Ridge Memory Care, Moline, Dec. 5, 2 p.m.
· Riverview Manor, Pleasant Valley, Dec. 6, 2 p.m.
· Kahl Home, Davenport, Dec. 9, 2 p.m.
· Generations, Rock Island, Dec. 12, 2 p.m.
· Illini Restorative Care Center, Silvis, Dec. 13, 2 p.m.
· St. Mary’s Health and Rehab, Davenport, Dec. 14, 2 p.m.
· Rosewood Care Center, Moline, Dec. 15, 2 p.m.
· Avonlea Cottage, Milan, Dec. 19, 2 p.m.
· Aperion Care, East Moline, Dec. 20, 2 p.m.
· Hope Creek Care, East Moline, Dec. 21, 2 p.m.
Modern Woodmen serves members for life. The tax-exempt fraternal benefit society offers life insurance, annuity and investment* products to improve the quality of life of its members, their families and their communities. In turn, members make an impact through social, educational and volunteer activities. In 2015, Modern Woodmen and its members provided $19.2 million and 438,000 volunteer hours for community projects nationwide.
* Securities offered through MWA Financial Services Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Modern Woodmen of America
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