For 112 years, one organization has existed in neighborhoods across the United States and Canada. They have given millions of dollars to local and national charities, helped disaster relief efforts and given each and every member a plethora of reasons to be proud.

I’m speaking of The Fraternal Order of Eagles. Since the organization began in 1898, Eagles everywhere have dedicated their lives to bettering the American way. Throughout our early history, we were instrumental in the creation of Mother’s Day, helped in passing Social Security and played a significant role in the Jobs After 40 program.

The Eagles have raised millions of dollars every year to combat diabetes, heart disease, spinal cord injuries, kidney disease, Alzheimer’s and cancer, helped handicapped children, uplift the aged and in general make life a little brighter for everyone.

We also actively support our veterans and those currently serving our country around the world. We support numerous local charities such as the Harrison Hospital Hope Program, South Kitsap Helpline, Fathoms o’ Fun, Fisher House for Veterans, and Popes Kids. We also have a strong positive relationship with our local schools.

We are the Eagles and we are, “People Helping People.”

With the holiday season upon us, we will be working with SK Helpline to collect food and toys for those in need. So if you see a “giving tree” or “food bin” at any of the local businesses, take the opportunity to drop off a can of food, an age appropriate toy, or even cash. It will all be put to good use in our community.

As a part of our current membership program, all active and honorably discharged veterans get their first year as an Eagle free of charge. It is important to us that the public knows our community involvement goes well beyond being a local bar, place to dance or socialize, and extends deep into the world of charitable giving.

On the Kitsap and Olympic peninsulas, we are fortunate there are Aeries (definition of an eagle’s nest) in Port Orchard, Bremerton, Belfair, North Kitsap, Port Townsend and Port Angeles.

We encourage all of you to come out to your local Aerie and get to know what “people helping people” is all about.

Thomas M. Riedel, Worthy President | Port Orchard Fraternal Order of Eagles #2338