Sponsored by Modern Woodman
If you’ve been involved with a Johnson County nonprofit in recent years, chances are you’ve heard of Beau Jackson. As the managing partner of Modern Woodmen of America’s (MWA) central and southern Indiana firm, Jackson has established himself as a leader in financial planning and community engagement. Alongside his wife, Jennifer, who serves as Franklin College women’s head soccer coach, and their two young children, Jackson calls Old Town Greenwood home.
Through his role at MWA, Jackson and his team focus on helping individuals and families overcome financial challenges to build secure futures. But for Jackson, the mission goes beyond dollars and cents. Under his leadership, the firm has contributed hundreds of thousands of dollars in resources to local nonprofits and devoted countless hours to community service. This year their efforts were recognized with Aspire Johnson County’s 2024 Nonprofit of the Year Award.
“Our mission isn’t just about financial security; it’s about creating stronger, healthier communities,” says Katie Schwarz, director of ByTAVI at the Center for Global Impact. “Beau and his team at Modern Woodmen of America are a true blessing to our nonprofit community. His dedication to community and servant leadership is an example not just for us as individuals, but for the business sector as well.”
Leading the Way for Change
Jackson’s team exemplifies his commitment to service. Financial Representative Collin Bopp and Fraternal Coordinator Michelle Badolato work alongside him to offer personalized financial solutions, including retirement planning, education funding and long-term security strategies. Together they embrace Modern Woodmen’s fraternal model, which reinvests profits into member benefits and community programs, rather than distributing them to shareholders.
“Being a 501(c)(8) organization gives us a unique business model,” Jackson says. “Every dollar over our overhead goes back to our members and the communities they live in. Some assume that because we’re a nonprofit, we’re not focused on helping people accumulate wealth, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. What sets us apart is our ability to make a significant community impact while also helping individuals achieve financial security.”
The team has established 13 active chapters across central and southern Indiana, where they organize food drives, match fundraising efforts and host educational workshops.
“Our local chapters are the heartbeat of what we do,” says Badolato. “It’s neighbors coming together to solve problems and support one another.”
Badolato, known for her attention to detail and empathetic approach to client relationships, is a cornerstone of Jackson’s team. She plays a critical role in managing events and coordinating outreach, ensuring the team’s success. “It’s amazing to see what we can accomplish when we pool our resources,” she says.
MWA’s matching fund program has amplified these efforts, doubling resources for local projects that benefit schools, health care initiatives and other vital causes. “Every dollar raised has the potential to change lives,” Jackson notes. Julia Reynolds of the Greenwood Public Library Foundation agrees, saying “this Modern Woodmen team is the epitome of what it means to give back to the community.”
A Glittering Celebration
One of Jackson’s proudest achievements is the annual Glitter and Gratitude Gala. Launched in partnership with his Leadership Johnson County Signature Program group, the event celebrates nonprofit leaders who tirelessly serve the community.
“The idea for the gala came from my years in the nonprofit sector,” Jackson shares. “I saw how much these leaders give without always receiving the recognition they deserve. I wanted to throw them a party, a night to honor their incredible contributions.”
The inaugural gala, backed by Modern Woodmen’s home office in Rock Island, Illinois, was a resounding success. Awards included the Lifetime Achievement Award, presented to Nancy Plake (United Way Johnson County) and Tandy Shuck (Leadership Johnson County executive director), and the Catalyst of Hope Award, given to local celebrity Rafael Sanchez.
“The gala was a unique and inspiring experience,” says Danny Causey, executive director of Discover Downtown Franklin. “It was amazing to see nonprofit leaders honored at their very own event.”
The Glitter and Gratitude Gala has since become an annual tradition, with this year’s celebration scheduled for April 15.
Investing in the Next Generation
Another cornerstone of Jackson’s vision is fostering youth leadership through service clubs. These programs teach young people the value of service while creating tangible benefits for the community. “Instilling responsibility and compassion in today’s youth lays the foundation for a brighter future,” Jackson emphasizes.
Modern Woodmen also partners with Leadership Johnson County’s Youth Leadership Academy, offering high school students the chance to present grant proposals for community projects. “Each year they allow some of our high school students to gain experience by making an ask for grant funding for one of their community service projects,” says Shuck. “For many of the students, it is their first time making that type of presentation. It’s invaluable.”
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Jackson is focused on expanding MWA’s impact across central and southern Indiana. Growing the membership base is a key priority. “The more members we have, the more we can accomplish together,” he explains.
Bopp shares Jackson’s vision, and has a special focus on Franklin. “This town has a charm and sense of community that’s unmatched,” he says. “It’s why I choose to raise my family here and run my business.” Known affectionately as Collin the Franklin Guy, Bopp is passionate about contributing to Franklin’s success.
Another priority for the team is enhancing financial literacy. Through workshops on budgeting, retirement planning, and navigating life’s financial challenges, they aim to empower individuals and families. “Financial education is the key to taking control of your future,” Bopp adds.
The team also hopes to deepen its partnerships with Johnson County schools, providing more resources for educators, parents and students. “Through this collaboration, we are able to expand our reach and offer more comprehensive services to our community,” says Michele Lee, community service director at Turning Point Domestic Violence Services. “Modern Woodmen’s commitment to financial security, education and community involvement aligns with our mission, helping us deliver impactful initiatives that foster financial literacy, personal development and overall well-being. This partnership strengthens our ability to make a meaningful difference, ensuring that our programming continues to evolve and meet the needs of those we serve.”
Amanda Hoff, executive director of KIC-IT, says “Beau and his team have been invaluable to our organization and the youth we serve. Their unwavering support through event sponsorships and service projects has greatly benefited homeless and at-risk youth in our community.”
For more information on financial services, community involvement or career opportunities, contact Beau Jackson at 317-452-6927, or Collin Bopp at 317-445-8817. You can also go to reps.modernwoodmen.org/bjackson.
