Our members and their lodges recently gave to help the Sutherland Springs community. Vice President of Member Benefits Kim Krueger and Community Service Coordinator Laura Adams met with Pastor Frank Pomeroy of the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs. 
The check they presented was from members in communities across Texas. The effort was similar to that which brought help to the many affected by Hurricane Harvey last year.
It’s not uncommon for companies to contribute in time of need. It is different when the efforts are led by individual members. By being a Hermann Sons Life member, you are part of a powerful network. A network is an association of individuals formed to provide mutual assistance; it is an association of individuals having a common interest. One of the ways our network is set apart from others is that our network – our community of members – is a group of difference-makers.
One of the biggest ways we make a difference is through our Camp Grief Support Session. Last year, we were able to provide support to 40 children who are on a journey to emotional healing after the deaths of family members. They attended a half-week session at our Camp in Comfort where they participated in traditional camp activities like swimming, making s’mores and camp crafts along with therapeutic activities with licensed therapists like group therapy circles and a symbolic lantern ceremony. Being a camp person, I know how beneficial the camp experience is to all children and am especially proud of our grief support program and its benefits to children.
Our network of difference-makers makes the Grief Support Session possible. The donations from lodges, individuals and affiliate groups; the member volunteers; the expertise of our Camp leaders; the relationship we have with the Children’s Bereavement Center of South Texas; and the dedication of our Board and Home Office to meaningful service initiatives are all part of the recipe to making a difference.
This month, a portion of our community of members will gather for a statewide event we’re calling “Leading with Heart.” At this event, we’re asking for donations for our 2018 Camp Grief Support Session where we plan to support even more children in their grief journeys. There is more need than ever for this type of service because of the many tragic events that have hit so many of our communities. “Leading with Heart” will have an educational component for lodge leaders and a social element, though I think what will be most meaningful will be the power of coming together that makes difference-making possible.
Invitations to our statewide event were sent to a limited group of individuals, but everyone can participate in making a difference. You can make a donation online that will go towards sponsoring children to attend the 2018 Camp Grief Support Session. By being part of the Hermann Sons Life network, you are making a difference.