|
|
|
The NFCA Proudly Recognizes "Fraternalists-in-Action" The National Fraternal Congress of America (NFCA) is proud to recognize the following individuals as Fraternal MVPs (Most Valuable Participants) for the week of May 14, 2007. 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. Wanda Stranahan Foresters Acorn Branch Wanda became a Forester in 1983, as a member of the Redwood Branch (1983-1991), and has been a member of the Acorn Branch since 1992. She was on the committee working with the Senior Promoter of Social Work—planning and orchestrating all social events for the branch. She also served as President of the Acorn Branch from 1998-2004 and was Chairman of the Acorn Branch’s 50th Anniversary celebration. Wanda also has served as her branch’s Newsletter Compliance Officer—checking and writing many of the articles. She also was elected as a delegate to the last two Regional Council Assemblies. Wanda served on the Children’s Miracle Network’s (CMN) Bowling for Miracles committee and was Chairman of the committee from 1995 to 1998. As part of that committee, she initiated publicity for the Bowling for Miracles fundraiser on a local TV station and “in lights” on the Goodyear blimp. Wanda coordinated the attendance of the CEO and other staff members of Children’s In addition to Bowling for Miracles, Wanda participated in the CMN’s radiothon for two years. She also has initiated and promoted relationships with her branch and other local organizations, such as the Summit County Children’s Services, Akron Children’s Hospital, Akron Rotary, United Disabilities Service and the Akron Zoo. Greater Beneficial Union of District #1000 As former National President of the Lutheran Fraternities of America, Richard has served since 1996 as President of GBU District #1000, which is the LFA Division of the Greater Beneficial Union. It is with Richard’s guidance that the district’s fraternal programs have continued to grow. Richard particularly encourages the younger members to become involved in the various district functions. Richard was instrumental in developing the LFA Annual Food-A-Thon program for seminarians and their families at Concordia Theological Seminary in This project involves GBU members of all ages. The youths in the Lutheran churches and schools help to solicit donations while members, including many senior citizens, collect the materials and donations. Once the collection process is complete, all willing volunteers, both young and old, sort and repack the materials, then finally load them into the delivery trucks. The LFA Annual Food-A-Thon program teaches youths the importance of fraternalism and helping others at an early age. The seniors especially enjoy the interaction of working with the young people. Whenever District #1000 sponsors a fundraiser or an event, Richard is the first to give his time, talent and support. District #1000 has numerous events not only to support their self-funded scholarship program, but to support community projects and worthwhile causes, such as Special Education Ministries, community outreach programs, raising money to purchase socks and gloves for those in need, donating children's books, and giving to intramural sports programs that are sponsored by local area schools. For the past 15 years, Richard voluntarily has served as the president of the Lutheran Heritage Foundation. Their mission is to perpetuate the Lutheran faith by translating, publishing and distributing confessional Lutheran theological books and materials worldwide. At the Crown of Life Lutheran Church, where he is a member, Richard holds a number of different offices, such as Elder and Chairman of the Stewardship Committee. Additionally, he is a member of the President's Advisory Council at Concordia Theological Seminary, in Wherever he goes and whatever he does, Richard always is promoting fraternalism and volunteerism. Richard's faith, commitment and dedication have been a continuing inspiration to all who are touched by him Royal Neighbors of Camp #670 Dorothy has been the Oracle for Camp #670 for almost 10 years, in addition to serving as District Oracle and State Oracle. In those years, she has encouraged members to be creative with matching funds, teddy bear gifts and activities. She also was a supporter of the National Volleyball League, while it had a team in Dorothy volunteers her time to many church events. She assists a dialysis patient in getting to her clinic appointments and with other errands. She works in membership of women’s activities of the United Methodist Women. In her state, she organized two camps for single mothers and their children called “Time Out for Moms.” Dorothy took part in the A lecturer and author, Dorothy regularly presents “Orphan Train Riders,” a historical program about the 200,000 children who went by train from New York City to be adopted by families in more than 47 states, from 1853-1929. She shares the experiences of the “leftovers,” who were housed in orphanages and children’s homes. For personal enjoyment, Dorothy plays accordion, travels, writes books, and corresponds with the many people she has met in her travels. She lives in Robert D. (Bob) Rineer Travelers Protective Association of Bob is a member of the Pennsylvania Division, Post D in Safety is a concern of Bob’s as evidenced by the many safety programs in which he has been involved. He volunteered many hours to the Strasburg Railroad, which is a four-week program, a teen-driving rodeo working with AAA Club and the Center for Highway Safety. He helps at bike rodeos promoted at many elementary schools. As State Safety Chair, Bob has traveled around the state visiting schools and promoting Halloween safety during October to thousands of children and has received national attention that started a National Safety Trust Fund. On Labor Day each year, Bob gives his day to helping set up, serve coffee and donuts to travelers on busy highways in the Bob is his post’s Flag Day Chair and distributes American flags to local groups, taking the time to make people more aware of TPA and its principles. A short ceremony is held when the flags are distributed. Bob also is involved in the Altruism Award program for students who demonstrate outstanding leadership, citizenship and scholastic skills. He also shares his time with Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Salvation Army. Bob belongs to the Loyal Order of Moose and is past governor and district president, and currently is serving as ritual governor in charge of new members. He helps the activity chair with children’s parties, picnics and bike rodeos. He recently assisted with a successful “safety day” at the Moose Lodge that had 49 children and 29 adults in attendance distributing DNA kits and explaining how to use them. With support from the City of Bob belongs to Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post #8757 in Bob serves his church as a deacon, participates in activities and helps at various social events, even helping to park cars because of limited parking spaces. The NFCA salutes these outstanding 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. |
 |
HOME | ABOUT NFCA | MEETINGS/EVENTS | MEMBERS ONLY | GOVT AFFAIRS PROGRAMS | NEWS | CONTACT | SEARCH | SITE MAP |
 |
