Modern Woodmen financial representative spreads holiday cheer

It's the season of giving, and a local Modern Woodmen of America financial representative is turning that belief into action. Inspired by the fraternal values of service and community, this year's Fraternal Excellence Award recipient led an initiative to ensure no one feels forgotten this holiday season.

Modern Woodmen's annual Fraternal Excellence Award is given to the financial representative who best embodies the organization's fraternal mission and goes above and beyond for their members and community. The recipient also receives $2,500 for their next volunteer project.

This year's winner, Tina Graves, Lexington, Tennessee, used the funds for a special project to help those without homes on Christmas Eve.

"What sparked this idea was seeing firsthand how many people in our own community struggle during the holidays - financially, emotionally or simply feeling unseen," Tina shares. "Christmas should be a time when people feel cared for, and we wanted to create an event that offers warmth, fellowship and dignity to those who need it most."

After hosting a similar event last year, the local Modern Woodmen team realized the need was far greater than imagined. Initially focused on individuals experiencing homelessness, feedback revealed that grief and hardship extend far beyond housing status. This year, the event will expand to embrace anyone hurting during the holidays.

Partnering with the county mayor and Main and Monroe restaurant, the initiative reached the entire community rather than a single shelter. Donations included hats, scarves, gloves, nourishing meals, and - most importantly - love and connection.

"This event represents the heart of what Modern Woodmen stands for: serving, connecting and strengthening our communities," Tina says. "Even one act of kindness can ripple through a community, and I'm grateful to be part of that impact."

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.