Arbors are how Gleaner members connect with each other to make a difference in their communities. With your arbor, you'll have the chance to plan and participate in service projects, like roadside cleanup, disaster relief efforts, mentoring programs and school activities. You can also create special projects to meet other needs in your community.

Since 2000, Gleaner arbors, along with other fraternal societies, have sponsored a national day of service projects for JOIN HANDS DAY. Gleaner Life Insurance Society contributes funding support for these and other charitable efforts.

Gleaner arbors are also about having fun! Arbors plan fun family events like picnics and baseball games, and enjoy group rates to amusement parks. Belonging to an arbor is a great way to get to know your neighbors and improve the community in which you live.

You are automatically eligible to participate in your local arbor as a member. If there is not an arbor already established in your area, you may start one. Our staff at the Gleaner Home Office is here to support your efforts.

Gleaner proudly sponsors community programs throughout the year. We work with our local arbors to provide funding to some very special causes.

In 2006, Gleaner Life Insurance Society and our members contributed more than $120,910 to communities and charitable organizations. Our members donated more than 361,535 volunteer acts and hours within their own communities.

Here are a couple of programs with which we're involved:

• Caring Hands A matching funds arbor program designed to provide assistance to individuals and families who suffer severe loss as a result of a natural disaster or catastrophic illness.
• 4-H Helping Hands Program Lends support to the youth of America by the participation of local arbors in 4-H activities. The program has two parts: Livestock Auction Support and a Matching Funds Program.