Thirkill faculty and staff named “Hometown Heroes” by Modern Woodmen of America

The faculty and staff gathered in the gymacafetorium (the name the school has developed for its multi-purpose room), where Principal Worthington introduced Scovil.

“Bobby is from the Woodmen, and over the years he and I have become good friends.  He’s actually donated a lot to our school.  And many of you have been a recipient of that help from the Modern Woodmen.  He called and he said ‘Okay, Rod, I would like to celebrate Thirkill Elementary.  He’s one of our leaders, and he was here reading today.  He’s listened to me talk about our leadership program and suggested that he had a way to thank our teachers and staff.”

After thanking the principal for the welcome, Scovil began, “I know you’ve had a busy day and it’s almost over.  My mom was a teacher, so I appreciate all you do throughout
the day.”

“It’s picture day!” came a shout from the assembled teachers.

“How many felt something different in the air today?” Principal Worthington asked.  The widespread laughter suggested that the day had been filled with a special kind
of energy.  

“I’m actually from Pocatello, and I do financial planning.  The Modern Woodmen of America was founded in 1883 as a not for profit insurance company,” Scovil continued.  By voice acclaim, several teachers indicated that they were members.  “Where on earth does the name come from?  Back in the 1880s, a gentleman was giving a sermon and reflecting on the loggers of the time, and how their job was clearing forests and providing jobs that helped the families and the community.  So Joseph Cullen Root liked the image, and founded our company to help people clear away the problems that come from financial burdens after someone passes away.  I don’t know about cutting down trees or making cabinets, I just know about helping people with their financial planning.”

Modern Woodmen provides estate planning, retirement planning, investments, and other financial services.  “But,” as Scovil continued, “as a company we are also a fraternal organization, like the Elks, Oddfellows, and so on.  We go back a long time as a fraternal group, which means we have an obligation to give back to our community.  Through our local chapters we try to get involved as much as we can.  Ten or fifteen years ago, I donated to the educational programs here.”  Scovil recounted some of the things that had been donated and provided to the school over the years, which were familiar to many of the teachers who had been at the school from around that time. “We donated those things to schools for quite a while, and that’s how I got introduced to the school.”

“Every year, we give out funds to our chapters to give back.  And one of the programs we have is called Hometown Heroes, which is where you come in.  Usually, if the kids were here I’d explain how every hero doesn’t wear a mask.  It’s what all of you do, and it doesn’t go unnoticed.  My mom was a teacher and I know there’s so much more that goes out behind the scenes.  Teachers mean a lot to us and our families.  Figuring out which school to award is always difficult, but there is something different about your school—the programs, and the kids’ attitudes, and just everything about this place.”

Scovil presented a certificate reading “Modern Woodmen of America recognizes Thirkill’s teachers, support staff, administration.  You believe in volunteer service and so do we.  As a fraternal financial service organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for families and communities, we recognize and appreciate your contributions to your community, as Hometown Heroes.”

Scovil presented a check for $100 to Principal Worthington, as well as stockpile of popcorn and treats.  

“What’s the old joke?” the principal said, as pictures were taken, “I haven’t seen that many flashing lights since I was arrested.”  The Woodmen are working in an ongoing way with the school through a matching funds program for upcoming fundraisers.