Employees of Royal Neighbors of America in Rock Island, IL, and Austin, TX, shared their holiday joy by making a difference in the lives of others. The organization gave eight teams of employees $2,500 each to use in the most impactful and creative way. This call to make a difference in someone’s life is Royal Neighbors’ Neighbor-it-ForwardSM Program.

The projects were varied but all made the holidays brighter for those who are facing unforeseen challenges. Projects included painting the playroom and hallways of a hospital’s children’s unit and stocking it with a supply of new toys; doing repair work at a homeless shelter; furnishing a bedroom; purchasing and setting up a computer and TV; donating furniture and appliances to women and children as they are reunited into new homes; and delivering personal care items, clothing, food, and toys to various families in the area.

“I cannot begin to express what a tremendous and positive impact we had on so many people,” said employee Nancy Ferkel.

Through the organization’s Nation of NeighborsSM Program, up to half a million dollars was given away to individuals or families in need across the country. It is a tangible expression of neighbor-helping-neighbor, according to Judith Tshibangu, Royal Neighbors of America Marketing Executive.

Royal Neighbors of America is a non-profit fraternal life insurance corporation dedicated to helping women and their families for close to 120 years. It insures lives, supports women, and serves communities by offering insurance and annuity products. Its members receive valuable benefits and can participate in a variety of local volunteer activities.

Headquartered in Rock Island, IL, Royal Neighbors serves nearly 250,000 members and is licensed to do business in 42 states and the District of Columbia.