Modern Woodmen matches funds raised by chamber
Modern Woodmen matched the funds that the Greater Pine Island Chamber of Commerce raised with a collage donated by the Pine Island Art Association, which was presented during the chamber’s annual dinner Jan. 28.
Financial representative Liz Martin said they matched $2,500; therefore presenting the chamber with a $5,000 check that will go towards the building fund.
“We were thrilled to be able to do it,” she said of donating the money to the chamber. “It was exciting, everyone was so appreciative.”
Last fall, Martin said they were able to provide a matching fund for the Fort Myers Police Department for Fallen Officers Family.
Modern Woodmen, a 130-year-old company, recently opened an office in Southwest Florida in November 2011, which covers up to 10 counties in this region. The organization was started in 1883 by Joseph Cullen Root, who created security for families through building homes and communities by clearing forests.
Martin said with just 50 members a chapter for Pine Island and Matlacha can be formed. She said they already have 13 members.
Once a chapter is formed, a board is established and then that board has the opportunity to direct the budget. Martin said a chapter can be as active as it desires through various community activities and projects.
An individual can become a member by obtaining just one service.
She said Modern Woodmen gives back to local communities through financial security, quality of family life and positive community impact. The Modern Woodmen ‘s Planning for Life system includes protection, savings, retirement planning, retirement distribution, estate planning, business planning and employee benefits.
Martin said the organization mainly targets small businesses and families.
She said grandparents can purchase life insurance for their grandchildren for just $4 a month to ensure they are taken care of.
Last year $26 million was given back to local communities and $450,000 is provided every year in scholarship funds.
For more information about Modern Woodmen, call Martin at 898-5222.