Encouraging patriotic activities and civic education has long been part of the mission of fraternal benefit societies like Thrivent. But few examples capture that spirit quite like Celebrate Liberty, a program that rallied Thrivent members to restore one of America's most beloved symbols—the Statue of Liberty.
In the 1980s, the U.S. government determined that the Statue of Liberty needed significant restoration before its 100th birthday. When the government sought private-sector assistance, asking corporations and individuals to help fund the effort, Aid Association for Lutherans (AAL) felt a natural connection. Rather than making a single corporate donation, AAL believed the effort was best met by mobilizing its members.
So, AAL, a precursor to Thrivent founded on the idea of mutual support, demonstrated the power of a nationwide network of civic-minded leaders. Half of all AAL branches participated, and more than half a million people nationwide were involved. Branches held ice cream socials, bake sales, heritage events and even a “Restoration Shower” to raise funds. Individual members also made financial contributions, often in honor of family members who had immigrated to the U.S.
The result was extraordinary. AAL members raised $750,000—more than almost any comparable organization—proving what can happen when shared purpose meets collective action.
Celebrate Liberty demonstrated what Thrivent clients can accomplish through “people power.”
Lauren Gaines is Thrivent’s corporate historian and archives manager.
