Local Modern Woodmen members honor Hometown Hero

Local volunteer Melinda Barthelme, Newton, was recently recognized for countless hours of service to the community during a Modern Woodmen of America member event on October 27, 2022.

Barthelme was honored through Modern Woodmenís Hometown Hero Program for her work in starting Saved By Grace Animal Rescue.

As part of the Hometown Hero Program, members of the Newton Modern Woodmen chapter presented Melinda with a certificate and a $100 award grant to be donated to the charitable organization of the honoreeís choice. Barthelme selected Saved By Grace to receive the donation to help continue the aid of animals in need.

Volunteers form the foundation of a strong community, says Wayer, local Modern Woodmen representative. ìModern Woodmenís Hometown Hero Program gives us the chance to thank those who selflessly give their time to make the world a better place.

Coordinated by local Modern Woodmen members, the fraternal financial services organizationís Summit chapters, chapters and youth service clubs provide opportunities for members to take part in social and educational activities and volunteer projects to meet local needs.

For more information or to get involved, contact Jane Wayer at 618-513-0314, jane.wayer@mwarep.org.

As a tax-exempt fraternal benefit society, Modern Woodmen sells life insurance, annuity and investment* products not to benefit stockholders but to improve quality of life for its members, their families and their communities. This is accomplished through social, charitable and volunteer activities. Annually, Modern Woodmen and its members provide nearly $20 million and over 400,000 volunteer hours for community projects nationwide.