People Helping People

Eastern Region - November 2023

Eastern Regional Madam President Christine Shupe presented a grant of $2,500 to Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh Foundation Child Life Program.

Millville, New Jersey - November 2018

-Millville's Annual Snowflake plunge – During Millville’s Annual Snowflake plunge in February of 2018, Millville Eagles #1836 sent their Queen of the Plunge and Creature of the Third Cove to Union Lake, and was able to raise $2,500 for Susan G. Komen Foundation. Following the event, all attendees were invited to the Aerie for refreshments. 

- Millville Eagles #1836 hosted the City of Millville Parks & Recreation Department for a community clean-up in our neighborhood in May. Working in pairs, approximately 50 people volunteered and removed 80 bags of trash, 30 tires, 15 TVs, one washing machine and a few shopping carts. They opened their doors for all participants for food and refreshment throughout the day, connected with their neighbors, and gave prizes for most trash collected. 

- Clean Communities is a New Jersey State Program where volunteer organizations and individuals may volunteer to clean specific, targeted areas designated by the city of Millville. Grant money is available and volunteers can received up to $500 for their participation. In August, 16 members of Millville Eagles #1836 volunteered for this program and cleaned a large, vacant area of a local industrial park. The program coordinator said he had never seen a group so organized and committed and awarded the Aerie the full amount. 

- The city of Millville holds an annual scarecrow contest during the month of October where groups, individuals and businesses may purchase a frame from the City and create a scarecrow. The scarecrows are then placed on lamp posts in our downtown for all to admire and cast their vote. Millville Eagles #1836 won Best in Show and was awarded a plaque at recent City Commission meeting. 

- Millville Aerie #1836 was recognized by Millville City Commission for their monthly Making A Difference Program. The city of Millville recognizes Organizations/Programs working to improve the quality of life within the city.

Bridgewater, New Jersey - July 2018

Last year on September 22 and 23, Somerset Eagle Riders #2137 hosted their second annual Eagle Riders Jamboree to raise money for Soldiers’ Angels. The two-day event featured a motorcycle ride, field games, homemade food, bonfire, raffles, and more. #2137 was able to raise $20,000 during that weekend. Multiple Eagle Riders from various Aeries helped coordinate with the event as well; including Rensselaer #4446, Middletown #544, Sleepy Hollow #1042, Norwalk #588, and Plymouth #546. Soldiers’ Angels is a non-profit that provides aid and comfort to the men and women of the United States Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and their families. #2137 plans on hosting this annual event again on September 21-22, 2018.

Bridgewater, New Jersey - January 2017

In 2004, PWP George Fitzpatrick started what has grown in to a holiday tradition at Somerset Aerie #2137. His idea “The Giving Tree,” embodied the heard of the organization and represented the spirit of People Helping People. That year, and every year since, a decorated Christmas tree has been placed in the foyer with ornaments made of tags with an age and gender written on them. Members choose one or more ornament and return with an age and appropriate gift. Partnering with St. John’s Episcopal Church in Somerville, NJ, which serves as the distribution hub for the gifts, ensures the gifts are provided to families in need. Father Ron works with other churches in the area, as well as hospitals, shelters, and other charitable foundations, to maximize the benefit of the fundraiser. Over the years, the tradition has grown thanks to the hard work of George Faxon, who has taken over the annual effort. The Aerie prides itself on its support of worthwhile causes throughout the community and The Giving Tree touches the hearts of all who hear about it.