The NFCA Proudly Recognizes "Fraternalists-in-Action"

Fraternal MVP—Week of July 21, 2008

The National Fraternal Congress of America (NFCA) is proud to recognize the following individual as a Fraternal MVP (Most Valuable Participant) for the week of July 21, 2008. Fraternal MVPs are “Fraternalists-in-Action” who volunteer their time, energy and compassion to strengthen their communities through participation in local lodge activities and other charitable endeavors.

Mary Ann Sloper
National Mutual Benefit

Indianhead Branch #828

Milltown, Wisconsin

Mary Ann has been vice president of National Mutual Benefit (NMB) Branch #828 since it was established. In 19 years, Mary Ann has missed only one highway clean up day. She has volunteered at all the fundraisers over the years and has organized many benefits that have raised over $20,000.

Mary Ann is active throughout the year helping the branch and the community in any way she can. At the summer branch picnics, she organizes games for all ages to play. She has developed a game that children can play as part of the scholarship program. Mary Ann takes care of flag donations around town and helps the branch to design and build the NMB floats for the summer parades. She participates in “Make A Difference Day” by painting picnic tables and cleaning the park for the community to enjoy.

Whether she is helping with the annual pumpkin fest, developing children games for picnics, or delivering cake and ice cream to the local Community Referral Agency (a shelter for victims of domestic abuse) on Valentine’s Day, Mary Ann is willing to help out wherever help is needed.

Mary Ann has sung in the church choir for over 40 years, is a member of the women’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), and has been on the church council for the past five years. She helps make and serve food at her church when there is a funeral. She makes new confirmation stoles every year for each new confirmand, brings her homegrown flowers for the altar during the summer and brings a 95-year-old lady to church each Sunday.

Mary Ann is a member of the Milltown Community Club and the Milltown Garden Club. She works every year serving “beans” at the fisherman’s party, makes pies for the chicken dinner in the park, and helps plant flowers every spring. She donates blood four times a year and has donated almost nine gallons. Mary Ann also volunteers at a local nursing home with residents to go shopping and help with crafts.

Mary Ann worked with her husband, driving a truck for 15 years, worked with Alcan sewing factory for 10 years and at a local nursing home for 12 years. Mary Ann now does the mending for residents at the local nursing home. Mary Ann has seven children and nine grandchildren.

The NFCA salutes Fraternalists-in-Action for their dedication, kindness and generosity. They embody the heart of fraternalism through their volunteer efforts and commitment to their communities.

 

To view previous week's MVPs, click here.