National Catholic Forester

In my article from two years ago, I wrote: …we are a "holy hybrid!" We are a business with an altruistic purpose to serve others. Our business provides revenue that can then be used for a ministry of good will in attending to the needs of others. Our products provide financial peace of mind for Catholics and those who have family connections to the Catholic Church. The sale of those products provides funding for the outreach, the ministry, and the community service that constitute our fraternal side. It takes both. Members experience the serenity of knowing they have things in order, whether it is for their own retirement needs, to provide for the wellbeing of their dependents, or for charitable giving. Members also have the opportunity to participate in meaningful activities that can truly make a difference in their communities, parishes, and neighborhoods. This is why I call NCSF a "holy hybrid". So, where are we now? The good news is that important strides have been made toward setting NCSF on the best path for the future. Delegates from the 2014 Convention recognized the need for new bylaws and voted their approval of the NCSF Bylaws that were included in the summer issue of our magazine. This was a necessary step for the change in governance to a structure preferred by the Illinois Department of Insurance examiners and compatible with best business practices. NCSF has hired professionals to handle the business side and take care of all the things that challenge us in a high- tech and complicated world. As noted in the summer magazine issue, another significant change for NCSF is that every beneficial member gets to vote for the Board of Directors. In the recent past, we had fewer than 75 people voting to elect the leaders. Now we have the potential for more than 26,000 members casting a ballot. We continue to seek qualified candidates for positions on the Board. If you are eligible and interested, please go to the NCSF website (www.ncsf.com) and complete an application. We certainly want to have a good selection of candidates for those 26,000 members to consider! What about our being a "holy hybrid"? NCSF continues to rely on members. Their new and current insurance premiums, and annuity or IRA contributions generate revenue to be shared through programs that benefit communities, parishes, and neighborhoods. Member awareness of local needs, and their willingness to address those needs, are essential for the fraternal side of NCSF to thrive. We continue to be a "holy hybrid" as long as NCSF has programs in place for offering financial services as well as helping our members fulfill the motto of "Love, Benevolence, and Charity." MARGARET "PEGGY" SCHMITT BOARD CHAIR National Catholic Forester 44 WELCOME Message from the Board Chair Dear Members of the National Catholic Society of Foresters, Every beneficial member gets to vote for the Board of Directors ... we have the potential for more than 26,000 members casting a ballot. Member Assembly 2018 Thursday through Saturday: July 26, 27, 28 Eaglewood Resort and Spa – Itasca, Illinois QUESTIONS? Call Lisa Bickus, CEO (800) 344-6273 ext. 204

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