Nest 564 Member Named "Fraternalist MVP"

By Frank Winters

The National Fraternal Congress of America (NFCA) is proud to recognize Mark Albin, a member of the Polish Falcons of America, Nest 564, La Porte, Ind., as a Fraternal MVP (Most Valuable Participant) for the week of May 22, 2006. Fraternal MVPs are “Fraternalists-in-Action” who volunteer their time and energy to strengthen their communities through participation in local lodge activities and other endeavors.

Mark Albin.

“The NFCA wishes to salute those individuals as true fraternalists,” said NFCA Chair of the Board Michael J. Wade. “As a Fraternal MVP, Mark Albin embodies the heart of fraternalism through his hard work, dedication and generosity.”

Albin has been a member of Polish Falcons his entire life, as has all of his family. He has been very involved in Falcon activities, attending National and District zlots, bowling tournaments, volleyball tournaments, camp and track meets. He began his involvement as a small boy and continues to this day. Albin competed in the 68th Annual National Adult Bowling Tournament recently held in Cicero, Ill., and also attended an Instructors’ meeting to help plan next year’s National Zlot. As an adult, Albin has been the chairperson for several events, including the National Adult Volleyball Tournament, which is scheduled later this year for October.

As a District Instructor, Albin is in charge of an annual camp held by District VI. The campers range in ages from 5-17. Activities include, but are not limited to, cooking, crafts, swimming, Polish-language classes, Falcon drills and protocol, as well as a wide range of various sports, singing, dancing and skits.

Albin donates his time to the physical and financial maintenance of the building that his Nest owns. He has stripped and waxed floors, painted, cleaned out the basement and helped with spring clean-up. Albin also volunteers for his Nest’s weekly fish fry that is held year-round, as well as helping to make the pierogi that are sold. For about 10 years, Albin volunteered as a bartender at his Nest’s Club at least one night a week.

Right after graduating from college, at the age of 23, Albin became Nest Secretary. He has been involved in Nest meetings and activities ever since. The offices he has held include Bar Manager, Nest Assistant Instructor, Nest Instructor, Nest Secretary and, presently, District Instructor. Albin also has been the District Vice President.
While much of his time is devoted to Falcon activities, Albin also contributes to his community by serving as an usher at his church and donating blood on a regular basis.

Fraternal MVPs are part of the NFCA’s Fraternalists-in-Action program, which recognizes individuals whose unique stories best represent 21st Century fraternalism. These fraternalists demonstrate exceptional compassion and vision through their volunteer activities.
[Editor’s note: The following was provided by the National Fraternal Congress of America.