Viking Lodge Donation Highlights Community Partnerships

Before the 2023-2024 school year began in August, three members of the Harald Viking Lodge #13 in Tinley Park had a special delivery for School District 146.

Rebecca Duda and Ashley Erdmann, along with Ashley’s son AJ, carried a carload of boxes into the District 146 Administration Center. The boxes were filled with pencils, erasers, folders, notebooks and any other school supply a student could need.

“This is just what we do at the Harald Viking Lodge,” said Duda. “We didn’t do this to get recognition or publicity. The members of the lodge just like to donate and help out those in need whenever we can.”

And help they did. In addition to the school supplies, they also collected monetary donations by selling raffle tickets at their Bingo Night. Baskets were donated by lodge members, and attendees could purchase chances to win them.

Duda and her partners took the money they collected and went shopping for more supplies. Due to their efforts, all five District 146 schools have received supplies donated by the Harald Viking Lodge.

“District 146 values our partnerships with community organizations, businesses, and groups,” said Dr. Jeff Stawick, Superintendent. “We would like to thank the members of the Harald Viking Lodge for their generosity. Their donations will help make sure each student at the District has the tools they will need throughout the school year.”

This is the first time the Lodge has donated school supplies, but they support community members each Christmas. For the last 20 years, they have collected, wrapped, and delivered Christmas gifts to families in the area. They also collect Christmas dinners, dry goods, and other needs to accompany the gifts.

Duda said the group will continue to help and invest in the community in any way possible. “As long as members can help, we will continue,” she said.

Community Consolidated School District 146 is comprised of Central Middle School, Fierke Education Center, Fulton School, Kruse Education Center, and Memorial School. Students from Tinley Park, Orland Park, and Oak Forest attend District 146 schools.