Stepping Up to the Plate

Batter up!

Masonic Children’s Home youth enjoyed America’s favorite pastime this summer when they attended a Philadelphia Phillies game, thanks to the generosity of several local corporations.

Twenty-four youth and nine staff members traveled by charter bus to Philadelphia on Monday, June 15, to watch the Phillies defeat the Miami Marlins 7-0 at Citizens Bank Park. They were joined in a private suite by Grand Lodge and Masonic Village leadership, along with Masonic Children’s Home board members.

From the comfort of the air-conditioned suite, attendees cheered on the Phillies while enjoying catered ballpark favorites, including chicken fingers, popcorn and Philly cheesesteaks.

“We would like to sincerely thank the donors for providing us with the opportunity to attend the Phillies game,” said Brother Mark R. Kurzenknabe, Director of the Masonic Children’s Home. “Many people do not get the chance to experience a game the way we did, and it was truly a special and memorable day. Everyone had a wonderful time.”

A Philadelphia sports fan, 15-year-old O’Neil has lived at the children’s home since fourth grade.

“It was a great experience,” he said. “I’m really grateful to the donors who made this possible.”

A special thank you to Christenson Investment Partners, Boyd Watterson Asset Management, National Investment Services and Mill Creek Capital Advisors for making this unforgettable day at the ballpark possible.

Located at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, the Masonic Children’s Home welcomes school-age children from across Pennsylvania facing various types of hardship. Up to 40 children live in five family-style cottages where they receive nutritious meals, medical care, academic support, life skills education and most importantly, a caring environment that offers stability, guidance and encouragement where they can grow, heal and thrive.

To be considered for admission, a child must be a U.S. citizen in grades 3 through 12, have a legal guardian who resides in Pennsylvania and demonstrate a need for placement.

If you know a child who could benefit, call 717-367-1121, ext. 33389 or email children@masonicvillages.org.