When it comes to giving back, the Order of Owls knows socializing can make the impact sweeter.
Evansville’s Nest 30 is one of about a half-dozen 501(c)(8) fraternal benefit societies in Vanderburgh County and, at 119 years, may be one of its oldest. Forty-dollar annual dues for its 700 members unlock access to social activities and electronic gaming, pull tabs, and raffles. Around 175 active members flock to 2427 N. Sherman St., where the Owls have nested since 2012.
“We’ve been a fixture of the community for a long time. It’s just that we’re flying under the radar,” Nest 30 President Randy Smock says.
Philanthropy is part of the fun. “We’ve already given to 24 organizations this year,” says Donna Mesker, chair of charitable donations. She visited Nest 30 with her parents, Clarence and Rosalie Mesker, when she was a child and became a member in 2009. “We not only donate money. We do collections so members can bring in items.”
The Owls recently donated $500 and 2,209 items to Dream Center Evansville. Although many of the Owls’ activities are private, daily lunch service is open to the public, as are monthly events such as karaoke, line dancing, and live music. “We have some great people here,” says Smock, a six-year member. “They come in, have a good time, drink, eat, go to dances, and socialize. That’s what this is, a fraternal order.”
