2024 Gratitude Report
A Note from R.W. Grand Master Larry Derr:
Our Masonic Charities provide
reflections on the past and hope for the future. While each charity focuses on a unique mission, together they improve the lives of those within our care, building stronger, brighter communities and bettering humanity.
The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania has stood as a beacon of the foundation of Freemasonry across the state and around the world. More than 150 years ago, Pennsylvania Masons mustered the resources and fortitude to achieve their vision. The Masonic Temple is now a National Historic Landmark, renowned internationally for its beauty, architectural wonder and cultural significance. Your support provides enlightenment through educational programming, tours and new exhibits enjoyed by visitors and students of all ages from around the world. In 2024, vital conservation efforts preserved unique, invaluable treasures for future generations.
The Masonic Youth Foundation, through the aid of donors, helped youth and adults with learning and growth opportunities to further their development. The Masonic youth groups focused on increasing members’ skills and self-esteem to realize their goals and dreams. The scholarship program gave young scholars the chance to take the next step toward their educational or vocational goals. Bullying prevention workshops, the LifeSkills Conference and the Girls’ Leadership Camp enriched attendees’ knowledge, confidence and relationships.
The Masonic Children’s Home offered warmth, security and encouragement for up to 40 youth who have faced challenges beyond what any child should experience. With the right tools, the assistance of caring staff and the generosity of donors, they find their way toward a fulfilling and successful future. Through academic tutoring and opportunities to explore sports, arts, music, spiritual and other activities, youth grow and discover their true selves. We guide them to become well-rounded adults who give back to society in meaningful ways.
Masonic Village cared for and served more than 2,700 residents across five locations in 2024. For many residents, life looks different than it once did as they face losses, health issues and changes to their routines. With your support, aging seniors receive expert care with dignity and compassion so they can continue to find joy, fulfillment and peace of mind. At each of our communities, you will experience how Masonic values have shaped the homes in which our residents reside, their everyday lives and the care our team members provide.
The Masonic Blood + Organ Donor
Program promoted blood drives throughout Pennsylvania, heightened awareness and provided education on sharing the gift of life. The program also provided guidance to brethren requiring life-saving organ transplants, as well as support to their loved ones throughout their journey.
Thank you for supporting our Masonic Charities in 2024 and helping the light of Pennsylvania Freemasonry shine brightly upon those who need it most.
Larry A. Derr
R.W. Grand Master
Library & Museum
- Preserved and archived 1,000+ objects
- Added 64 new books
- Answered 362 research requests
- Welcomed 12,863 visitors
Children’s Home
- Completed 1,832 hours of in-service staff training
- Welcomed 5 new children
- Supported 9 students in college
- Celebrated 4 high school graduates
Masonic Youth Foundation
- Benefited approximately 650 members across
5 youth groups - Trained 1,690 individuals at virtual and in-person
Educational Institute workshops - Awarded $150,000 in scholarship funds
Masonic Blood + Organ Donor Program
- Collected 3,573 units of blood, helping to save the lives of over 10,000 patients
- Supported 7 Brothers who received life-saving organ transplants and 12 family members
Masonic Village
- Provided a home to 2,734 residents*
- Supported 2,312 staff
- Provided $40.8 million** in charitable care and services
- Covered the cost of care for 55% of residents receiving skilled nursing care
- Cared for 361 hospice patients and their families
- Provided $185,000 in Home Assistance through the Masonic Outreach Program
- Supported 1,740 widows through the Masonic Widows’ Program
* This includes residents of nursing, personal care and memory care areas; retirement living residences; the Bleiler Caring Cottage; and the Masonic Children’s Home.
** This amount consists of approximately $11.3 million (at cost) of free care and services and $29.5 million (at cost) for care and services above the amount reimbursed by Medicare, Medicaid and other third-party payers.
