Newsroom

Rock Island, Ill. (October 4, 2024) – Royal Neighbors of America announced four Quad Cities recipients of its 2024 Nation of Neighbors women’s empowerment award and grant. Each recipient received a $10,000 grant to amplify their community impact, underscoring Royal Neighbors’ commitment to, “Insurance with a Difference.”

In 2024, this national award has recognized a total of 11 influential women who’ve made a lasting impact in the lives of women and girls through a nonprofit, business, or program. Nation of Neighbors recipients are influential leaders who exemplify the Royal Neighbors mission of insuring lives, supporting women, and serving communities.

“For 130 years, Royal Neighbors has actively invested in the leadership and initiatives of women like our Quad Cities recipients,” said Royal Neighbors’ CEO and President, Zarifa Reynolds. “These awards are a tangible way of showing that when women lead, whole communities thrive for generations to come.”

“Each recipient has used their personal experience, passion, and talents to build a brighter future for others, and we admire their strength and courage to persevere,” said Amy Jones, Royal Neighbors’ Senior Director of Social Impact. “These grants dollars will enable each woman to continue their impactful work furthering our mission of fostering social good.”

Jaime Atwood | Foster’s Voice
Jaime Atwood, co-founder of Foster’s Voice, created this life-saving organization after the tragic loss of her son, Foster, to suicide. “Our mission is to end suicide and the stigma around mental illness by improving the conversations and creating awareness, action, and hope,” said Jaime. Foster’s Voice has grown from a single club at United Township High School to nine area schools, touching the lives of hundreds of individuals each month. Jaime’s leadership and passion have been instrumental in creating safe spaces for youth and adults alike to openly discuss their mental health and find the support they need. Jamie was nominated by Royal Neighbors member Tristyn Passini.

Kathy Barker | Barker Farms
Kathy Barker, founder of Barker Farm Outreach, ensures fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables are available to everyone regardless of economic status. It all began because of Kathy’s fierce desire to help her neighbors and community break down the barriers to food security by providing access to fresh produce. “Receiving this grant means we can continue to work toward helping our community fight food insecurity by building the infrastructure of Barker Farm Outreach,” said Kathy. Kathy was nominated by Royal Neighbors member Lynda Wastyn, PhD.

Dr. Annette Clevenger | Narratives QC
As founder and executive director of Narratives QC, Dr. Annette Clevenger transforms the lives of vulnerable young adults in the Quad Cities area. At a critical time when young adults are navigating the complexities of education, employment, and mental health, Narratives QC is stepping in to provide the tools and support they need to thrive. The organization empowers young adults to find their path to success through free, one-on-one coaching, mental health support groups, life skills classes, and fun activities. “We’re increasing their social capital by providing trusted peer relationships, mentorship, and healthy environments to become interdependent,” said Dr. Clevenger. Dr. Clevenger was nominated by Royal Neighbors member Jordan Kirkbride.

Chris Ciasto | QC Women Outdoor Club
Christine R. Ciasto, treasurer of the QC Women Outdoor Club, is dedicated to empowering women through outdoor activities that foster self-confidence, community, and personal growth. The club encourages women of all backgrounds to embrace the beauty of nature and develop strong support systems while exploring outdoor adventures together. “This grant validates that what we have been trying to do for the past 17 years is working, one member at a time,” said Chris. “Our goal is to empower 100 more women in 2025 with this grant!” Chris was nominated by Royal Neighbors employee and member, Angie Bardsley.

About Royal Neighbors of America

IIn 1895, nine founding women created a membership community. They were one of the first to make life insurance accessible to women. Nearly 130 years later, Royal Neighbors remains committed to its mission of Insuring Lives, Supporting Women, and Serving Communities℠. The organization’s 275,000+ members, chapters, employees, and appointed agents across the country drive the mission through localized volunteerism and philanthropy programs making social impact the cornerstone of their work.

Royal Neighbors members experience Insurance with a Difference℠ through their tailored life insurance and annuity products, opportunities to make an impact in their communities, and access to a variety of Member Programs including savings on prescriptions, health screenings, grief support, and more.

In 2020, Royal Neighbors was upgraded to “A Excellent” (3rd highest out of 13) by the AM Best Company for overall financial strength and ability to meet ongoing obligations to certificate holders. The rating was affirmed as of November 17, 2023. In 2023, Royal Neighbors delivered $31.2 million in Social Good impact, record revenue. Royal Neighbors received its eighth Great Place to Work^® certification in 2024. For more information about Royal Neighbors of America, go to royalneighbors.org.