WINTER ISSUE 2014
YOUR GUIDE TO RESOURCES
Missouri Missouri Outreach Outreach A publication of the Masonic Home of Missouri A publication of the Masonic Home A publication of the Masonic HomeofofMissouri Missouri
ANNOUNCEMENT
Celebrating 125 Years
Honoring the past while welcoming the future Page # 6 SPOTLIGHT ON...
Creating-A-Partnership (CAP) Become a partner in our matching funds grant program Page # 8
PARTNERING WITH MASONIC ORGANIZATIONS
How Good Deeds Help Others Putting smiles on faces during the holidays Page # 16
Seriesof One of benefits Series Four our our Benefits and and Resource Guide for Resource Guide for Veterans & Military Veterans & Military
Board of Directors Jon B. Broyles, Chairman/GM David W. Haywood, President C. Brent Stewart, Vice President Richard L. Smith, Secretary Ronald D. Jones, Treasurer Keith M. Bail William J. Bowser Steven D. Duncan Chris T. Harrelson Jeffrey D. Lee H. Lee Stallings Dan Ward Charlie Wiegert
The Board of Directors & Staff would like to cordially invite you to attend the
Director of Finance
Masonic Home of Missouri’s 125th Anniversary Celebration
Editor
Saturday, June 14, 2014
Executive Director Barbara Ramsey
Jodi Blake
Rhonda Stone Lightfoot Masonic Home of Missouri 6033 Masonic Drive, Suite A Columbia, MO 65202 573.814.4663 Phone 1.800.434.9804 Toll Free 573.814.4660 Fax mohome.org
Masonic Complex Columbia, MO More details will be posted on the website at www.mohome.org and contained within this & upcoming issues of the Missouri Outreach Magazine.
Contents
4
Executive Director’s Notes
Embracing change and the history behind the Future
Page 5
Page 6
8
Spotlight on Outreach Programs Creating-A-Partnership (CAP)
12
60 Ways to Raise Funds
Helpful Ideas for Your CAP Matching Funds
Show Me Good Deeds Done
How an Organization Made the Holidays Brighter
Page 17
7
What’s in a Number? Page 22
16 18
Page 24
Student Loans 101
Do You Know the difference in Student Loans?
20
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Part Four of our Veterans Series
27
How to Show Your Support
Commemorative Gifts for the 125th Anniversary
30
Contact Information
Who to call for what and how to reach them. Page 26
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Executive Director Notes A
t this time of year, I begin to reflect over the many changes that have occurred in what has been a year that, once again, moved so swiftly. Change is sometimes planned with great care and preparation, and sometimes change finds us when we are least expecting it. The Masonic Home’s family of Lodge and Chapter members, youth organizations, clients, widows, Board Members, and staff has seen change this past year, both planned and unplanned. We have celebrated the joy of helping others in need through our Outreach Programs, but we have also shared in sorrow caused by illness, hardships and the loss of those we love. As the Masonic Home of Missouri prepares to say goodbye to 2013, we turn our attention and planning to the joyous celebration we will share in the coming year – the Masonic Home of Missouri’s 125th Anniversary. The Masonic Home of Missouri was dedicated in 1889 in St. Louis, Missouri. It is difficult to comprehend all the societal changes that have occurred in the last 125 years. As society changed and needs changed, the Masonic Home of Missouri has been able to adapt and change with it. However, the Masonic Home of Missouri continues to reflect the values at our foundation – Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. The Masonic Home must pay great thanks to 125 years of leadership that helped guide us through those changes with thoughtful consideration and planning. While working on the 125th Anniversary celebration, we have noticed a common theme with the early forefathers of the Home and where we are today. Decisions were made with a thought toward the future. They were not afraid of change. Always evolving the processes of the Home....always changing to make it better, stronger..….enduring.
In addition to acknowledging the importance of leadership, we must also recognize the extraordinary generosity from the membership and benefactors, both Masonic and non-Masonic. While some gifts have been large, there have been thousands of smaller gifts enabling the Masonic Home to provide assistance to those qualified individuals in need. Just last year through the Outreach Programs, the Masonic Home provided over one million dollars in direct financial assistance to Missouri masons, widows, ladies of the Order of the Eastern Star, and masonic children. In addition, the Lodges and Chapters partnered with the Masonic Home to provide an additional one million dollars in charitable assistance to children in need in their communities. Thank you for your support to make this charitable assistance possible and we ask that you continue to financially support the Masonic Home of Missouri to become part of this great legacy for future generations. I invite all of you to celebrate with us in 2014 and share in the story of this great charity. I would like to invite you to attend the celebrations during our Anniversary weekend - June 13-14, 2014. Please support your Masonic Home of Missouri and celebrate our shared story, as we continue to grow this great charity to assist those in the future. Sincerely,
Barbara Ramsey Executive Director
A person has two hands, One for helping himself, The other for helping others. - livingcivil.com page 4
Missouri Outreach
Masonic Home of Missouri Representative of the Year During the year, many Masonic Home of Missouri Representatives throughout the State assist us by referring, educating, and supporting our Outreach Programs. They take the time to educate themselves on our Outreach Programs, submit a widows list, use our resource guides, work the Creating-A-Partnership Program, and maintain contact with our staff on a regular basis. This important link with the Masonic Home enables us to continue to assist Masons, wives, widows, Order of the Eastern Star members and children. Each year, the Masonic Home of Missouri recognizes a representative who has gone above and beyond in his dedication to his duties. This year’s honoree for Representative of the Year is Brother Joseph S. Russell from Rising Sun Lodge No. 13. Joseph received a plaque from the Masonic Home in honor of his dedication to his duties as a Home Representative. When asked what he thought about receiving the award, Brother Russell stated, “I was surprised. I have been a Home Representative for the past two years and enjoy staying in contact with our widows and helping others in my Lodge. I feel it is my duty to do so, but I’m honored to accept this award. By visiting with the widows and talking to them, I learn a lot about their needs. I was always taught to help those in need and I truly enjoy being the Masonic Home Representative.” Brother Russell became a Mason in March 2011. He is an endowed member and Senior Deacon of Rising Sun Lodge #13, Junior Warden of Barry Daylight Lodge UD, Treasurer of Liberty York Rite Chapter #3, Council #50, Commandery #6, Liberty, MO, Senior Deputy Grand Tall Cedar of Harry S. Truman Forest #212, Tall Cedars of Lebanon of North America (Kansas City, Missouri), Scribe of Mark Twain Forest #202, Tall Cedars of Lebanon of North America (Columbia, Missouri), Shriner, member of the Director’s Staff, and Amateur Radio Club of Ararat Shrine, Member of the Lodge of Research, and proud member of the Truman Club. His Lodge sends out birthday and Christmas cards to the widows, and Brother Russell spends time each month updating his widows list, making sure that the Masonic Home of Missouri also receives the list. To further add to his willingness to make sure that others are taken care of, Brother Russell requested that the Lodge install a whiteboard/bulletin board for the Masonic Home of Missouri, so all could see the Thank You’s from Widows and what events the Home was holding in the area. Joseph has worked as a Custodial Supervisor for the past eight and a half years for Clay County, Missouri. In 2012, he started his own side business performing maintenance and repairing lawn mowers and other small engine equipment. Joseph enjoys attending as many Masonic events as time allows and is a licensed ham radio operator. Joseph enjoys communicating with people over the airwaves and is a volunteer member of the KC Northland ARES group. He is a trained storm spotter and assists the local and county Emergency Management Departments during times of crisis. Brother Russell is also an honored member of the Truman Club and donates to the Masonic Home of Missouri, “because it is my way of saying thank you to those Masonic men and women that paved the way for my own Masonic journey. I also want to do my part to help bring Brotherly Love and Relief to those men, women, and children of the Fraternity during their times of need”. Winter Issue 2014
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Celebrating the Past, Embracing the Future “To assist eligible adults and children in need by practicing the principles of Freemasonry” After wrapping your tongue around the word It’s no secret that Masons take care of Masons...and “Quasquicentennial” a couple of times, we want you to their families. In 1889, it was no different and some start thinking about something: Quasquicentennial very fore-thinking men came together to incorporate, means ‘pertaining to or marking a period of 125 build and run the Masonic Home for Orphans and years.’ The very amount of years, the Masonic Home Widows. These men began the process of building the foundation of a of Missouri will be Quasquicentennial durable charity that celebrating on June continues to help 14, 2014. quas·qui·cen·ten·ni·al [kwos-kwi-sen-ten-ee-uhl] those in need today. In the year 1889, the Throughout the United States was adjective 1. pertaining to or marking a period of 125 years. years, the Masonic 113 years old, CocaHome of Missouri’s Cola Company Board of Directors was incorporated, noun continued to build Grover Cleveland 2. a 125th anniversary. on that foundation was President, 3. a celebration marking such an anniversary. there were 42 States of assisting and Thomas Edison shows his first motion picture. “eligible adults and children through the practice of Social Services, as we know them today, did not exist. Freemasonry”. They chose pathways that allowed them If a spouse passed away, there were no survivor’s to first operate homes that could assist people if they benefits, no Social Security, no Medicare/Medicaid, moved to St. Louis or Kansas City and then through or Dependent Children’s aid. If a Mason passed programs that come to the a person’s own hometown. away, his wife was responsible for finding a way to Throughout the 125 years of existence, the Masonic raise their children with many times no job skills or Home of Missouri has continued to embrace the experience working outside the home. future but always celebrate our past.
Historical Timeline 1885 Grand Lodge votes to investigate opening a Masonic Home 1958 10 story residence hall and hospital built. page 6
1889 Purchase of 15 acres on Delmar Blvd for $40,000 is made
1969 Board looks into relocating home due to safety concerns.
July 12, 1889 Della Gale Farthing, age 12, becomes first resident.
June 15, 1889 The Masonic Home of Missouri is dedicated.
1974 Board recommends adding Kansas City facility.
1981 Last child leaves the St. Louis facility.
1986 Kansas City facility opens
Missouri Outreach
Our current Board of Directors and staff would like to extend an invitation to you to attend our 125th Anniversary on June 14, 2014 at the Masonic Complex. There will be a host of events during the day including a charity golf tournament (to be played on Friday, June 13, 2014), a special Masonic Home of Missouri’s Children Reunion, special displays of the original stain glass from the Order of the Eastern Star Chapel and Church from the Delmar campus, silverware, newspapers, brochures, photos and other items from the former residents of the Home, guided tours, and much more. We will have a commemorative book and collector’s coin for sale during the event to mark the occassion. The collector coin has been designed from the original 1889 dedication coin and will be displayed, along with the original, in the Masonic Home’s museum. As more plans are finalized, we will inform everyone of times, etc. on our website at www.mohome.org, which will also be re-launched on January 6, 2014 with a new design, celebrating this special event.
Children’s Charity Golf Outing A special charity golf tournament will be held on Friday, June 13, 2014 at the Columbia Country Club. The tournament will be limited to the first 36 teams that register and pay. This event quickly fills up and we anticipate the same this year. If you are interested in having a team but are not sure who all the players will be, register and pay for your team slot, then fill in your players by March 14, 2014. Sponsorship levels have been slightly changed this year. Lodges, Chapters, Businesses and people will have the option of sponsoring game holes, drink carts, shirts, players or contests. Sponsorhip levels can be viewed on our website and applications will be mailed to Lodges and former event sponsors in February. All proceeds will go to benefit the Masonic Home of Missouri Children’s Financial Assistance Program and the Creating-APartnership (CAP) Program. To register and/or pay for a team, please visit our website at www.mohome.org or call (800) 4349804 to request a registration packet. Be there “Fore” the children!!
Mark Your Calendars!!! 1896 Tornado causes substantial damage to the Home. 1990 Declining admissions & safety concerns force sale of St. Louis facility. Winter Issue 2014
1914 Diphtheria epidemic forces 10 week quarantine. No deaths. 1991 The first Outreach Program begins.
1926 Swimming pool is donated by Rosa Graff.
2011 Sale of Western Unit Facility in Kansas City.
1941 WWII began. 258 people reside at the Home, 70 on waiting list.
2013 Eight Outreach Programs assist eligible Missouri Master Masons, wives, widows, female members of OES and children in State. page 7
Spotlight on Creating-A-Partnership(CAP) Program The Creating-A-Partnership Program (CAP) is a matching funds program that creates a partnership between the Masonic Home and the Lodges/Chapters to assist children in need in their communities. In Fiscal Year 2013, the Masonic Home and 54 Lodges partnered together to provide $105,273.39 to children in need throughout the state, and the Home partnered with 7 Chapters to provide $4,262.00. Through this partnership, Lodges and Chapters made a difference in the lives of thousands of children statewide by providing clothing, glasses, and school supplies. Last year, the CAP program was expanded to fund projects, in addition to assistance for an individual child or children. In Fiscal Year 2013, there were 33 Lodges/Chapters that utilized the Project aspect of the program. The primary project Lodges and Chapters funded were “Buddy Backpack” food programs. These programs are designed to send food home over the weekend for low income children. Because of the joint efforts of the Lodge/Chapters partnering with the Masonic Home of Missouri, there were an untold number of children across the state that did not have to go hungry. The CAP program was introduced at Grand Lodge Annual Communication 10 years ago. In that initial year, 13 Lodges participated in the program. In Fiscal Year 2013, of the 61 Lodges/Chapters participating, 8 lodges and 6 chapters were participating in the CAP program for the first time. In addition, there are 20 Lodges/Chapters that page 8
have participated in the program 5 years or more. This program makes a difference in the life of a child that would otherwise go without the things that so many of us take for granted, like a warm winter coat or food to eat during the weekend.
If You Can Dream It, You Can Do It On March 16, 2013 Jackson Lodge No. 82, Brookfield Lodge No. 86 and Marceline Lodge No. 481 hosted a Ladies Luncheon in Marceline, Missouri. Members from all the Lodges, several wives and widows and Order of the Eastern Star were present for the soup and salad meal. During the presentation offered by the Masonic Home staff, Marceline Lodge learned about the Creating-A-Partnership program and how they could double their monetary gift back to the community. Walt Disney’s boyhood hometown is Marceline, Missouri and one of his quotes “All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them” describes the effort that the Lodge put forth to accomplish a wonderful Creating-A-Partnership (CAP) Program project that benefited Walt Disney Elementary School. The Brethren of Marceline Lodge held a “Back to School” Picnic and partnered with the community Missouri Outreach
and Walt Disney Elementary School staff to provide a fun event for everyone to enjoy. Teachers from the school provided dessert and a local meat company contributed the side dishes and gave a discount on the meat to the Lodge brothers. There was a small fee for the food but at the end of the event, the brothers realized a profit of $1,350. Excitement about what they could do with this money and with the matching funds that the Home would assist with became even greater when a local businessman approached them with a $1,000 donation and another $500 was given to the Lodge through an anonymous donor. Brother Steven Burns submitted the Creating-A-Partnership (CAP) application and a check for $2,500. The Masonic Home approved the application and a check for $5,000 was sent to the Lodge. They wrote another check for the remainder that was raised to present to Sarah Dunham, Principal at Walt Disney Elementary School. “So many children have food insecurities on the weekends and during holidays. Having this generous donation from the Marceline Lodge will help our Buddy Backpack Program immensely. We provide
Marcelline Lodge No. 481 members present a check to Sarah Dunham, Principal at Walt Disney Elementary School. left to right: Steve Burns (Treasurer), Fred Lewis (Secretary), Sarah Dunham (Walt Disney Elementary Principal), Mike Sportsman (Senior Warden), RWB Loren Carriker (Chaplain), John W Carver Jr. (Worshipful Master)
over 50 backpacks to children during a typical week and knowing that the children will have nutritious food helps us concentrate on furthering their education”, states Ms. Dunham. The Master of the Lodge, WB John W. Carver, Jr. knew about the “Buddy Backpack” program in the Winter Issue 2014
elementary school and how it made a difference to the children in the community. “Watching the Lodge pull together and decide how we were going to have a community event was incredible. Everyone was enthusiastic and the community support was outstanding.”
Focusing on the Future The members of Summit Lodge No. 263 have been participating in the Creating-A-Partnership (CAP) Program since the 2003/2004 School year. Whether assisting with the purchase of clothing, gloves, school supplies or glasses for students in the Lee’s Summit area, the Lodge has made a difference in the educational pursuits of many. As Summit Lodge’s Junior Warden and Creating-APartnership Liaison, Brother Ron Greninger finds the program easy to work with. “At first, when I started working the program, there was a little bit of a learning curve but a quick phone call to Tisha Woodard at the Home and we were on our way,” states Ron. “Now it’s very easy and having the matching funds just extends what we can do”. Establishing partnerships with the local vendors is also important to the success of the program. “We have established some true partners in this community through this program. The school nurses and counselors that contact us understand that our Lodge is here to help the children attain an education.” explains Ron. “The local Eyemart has been phenomenal in assisting us with discounted rates in order for us to purchase glasses to help a child. It’s just been a good experience all the way around”. The Lodge members are active in raising funds for this program by holding Spaghetti dinners, member contributions, paying their dues and even having members donate custom items for raffles. By participating in the Creating-A-Partnership (CAP) Program, the Lodge is able to meet the needs of the local students and create a better learning environment for them. page 9
Making a Difference Previously published in the Lamar Democrat (Lamar, MO) on August 21, 2013
The Lamar Masonic Lodge No. 292 and Mt. Hope Chapter No. 74 Order of the Eastern Star are very community minded organizations. Upon learning of the Barton County Backpack program, they began having fundraisers with proceeds to go for that purpose. The Creating-A-Partnership (CAP) is a matching funds program that allows the Masonic Home
Pictured, (l to r): Bob Davis, Belinda Rutledge, Tinsley Rutledge, Wanda Reno, Retha Squires, and Missy Shofler.
Masonic Home of Missouri Representative Luncheon Update The Masonic Home of Missouri held its Annual Representative luncheon on Monday, September 23, 2013 during Annual Communication at the Holiday Inn Executive Center in Columbia, Missouri. Over 170 Masonic Brethren attended our luncheon and received training material including a FY13 Annual Report and several reference items for referring and making applications for those in need. A presentation on the packet and introduction of the Outreach Programs was given by staff of the Masonic Home of Missouri. Grand Master David L. Ramsey and President Jon B. Broyles were on hand to present the Masonic Home of Missouri’s Creating-A-Partnership Program and Representative of the Year awards. This year, five lodges received awards for their participation in the Creating-A-Partnership Program. Congratulations to Crestwood-Anchor Lodge No. 443 (Top Lodge), O’Sullivan No. 7, Mountain View Lodge No. 637, Willard Lodge No. 620 and Texas Lodge No. 177 for their support of this program. The Masonic Home of Missouri’s Representative of the Year award went to Joseph S. Russell from Rising Sun Lodge No. 13.
of Missouri to partner with Missouri Lodges and Chapters to help children throughout the state. The Masonic Home of Missouri may match up to $2,500 per Lodge or Chapter each fiscal year. Belinda & Tinsley Rutledge, representing the Back Pack Prgoram, were presented a check for $3,000 for that purpose by Master Bob Davis and Master Elect Red Wilkinson of Lamar Lodge and members of the Eastern Star Chapter.
The Masonic Home of Missouri would like to thank our Representatives for their dedication and support of the Home. If you have questions or if any Representative was unable to attend and wishes to obtain the training packet, please contact the Masonic Home of Missouri at (800) 434-9804 and ask for Rhonda Stone Lightfoot.
You may find more information about the program and applications on our website at www.mohome.org or by calling the Masonic Home of Missouri at (800) 434-9804 and speak to Tisha Woodard, Outreach Caseworker.
Don’t forget to turn in your volunteer hours for the year! If you have questions regarding how to record them, call (800) 434-9804 and ask for Rhonda!
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Missouri Outreach
Masonic Home of Missouri Creating-A-Partnership (CAP) Program by Region FY2013
$5,969.86 5 Lodges/Chapters
$6,318.60 6 Lodges/Chapters
$9,801.90 6 Lodges/Chapters $13,105.66 10 Lodges/Chapters Regions A B C D E F G
$22,183.64 11 Lodges/Chapters $31,089.59 13 Lodges/Chapters
$21,066.14 10 Lodges/Chapters
Annual Report
page 6
$109,535.39 Total Assistance 61 Lodges/Chapters
Winter Issue 2014
page 11
60 Ways to Raise Funds The Masonic Home of Missouri’s Creating-APartnership (CAP) Program is an excellent way to make your hard earned money go further in your community but many Lodges and Chapters are at a loss on how to raise funds for their projects. We have put together a list of commonly practiced fundraising ideals for your use. Please keep in mind that you should follow all Masonic protocols for fundraising and that you should check with the Masonic Home of Missouri before your begin a project to make sure you understand how the Creating-A-Partnership (CAP) Program works.
Get the Word Out
1. Letters- Send out letters by regular mail. Opt for using something that stands out and is personal so that people know it is from you. 2. E-mail- Still use e-mail to get the word out, just do not make it your only way. Some people now prefer E-mail over regular mail as it is less costly. E-mail is also great for reminders and for those you may not have a physical address. 3. Internet- Use your Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, Blogs, etc. to get the word out. Check out fundraising websites like gofundme.com. 4. Tell your local Chamber- Local chambers are a great centralized location for getting in touch with area businesses. Ask if you can be part of their newsletter or get info about the businesses in your area. 5. Place an Ad -Places like Craigslist and local online garage sale sites are great places to post. I know several individuals who received money by placing a wanted ad in a local newspaper. Many places of business even have a website where you can sell page 12
$?$!$?
items, post fundraisers and get recommendations on their internal website. This works best if there is a legitimate site where individuals can direct their funds directly to the charity. 6. Facebook - Post your charity on your facebook page. Individual charities also at times have widgets you can load to your page to show your fundraising progress and as a direct link to your donation page. 7. Newsletters- If you know someone that writes stories for the neighborhood newsletter or blogs online, ask them to feature your story.
Recycle
8. Phones - Research places that recycle phones for cash. There are a number of them out there. Find the one that works well for you and comes recommended. 9. Printer Cartridges - There are numerous places that pay for used printer cartridges. Some limit the types of printer cartridges they will take. One of my favorites is Empties4Cash but they only take certain inkjet cartridges. 10. Cans/Bottles - If you live in a state where you can redeem cans and bottles this can be a good way to collect extra money. Let your friends and neighbors know what you are doing and become the neighborhood collection spot.
Sell
11. Coasters for a Cause - Six Flags Great Escape in upstate NY offers Coasters for a Cause. Organizations can sell discount tickets and keep $5 of the proceeds for select dates. Check with your local amusement park or Six Flags for similar offers. 12. Entertainment Book - Entertainment books Missouri Outreach
provide a large number of valuable coupons to the consumer. This fundraiser can be sold to local and long distance family and friends.
23. Phenomenal Fudge - An awesome fudge company out of Vermont allows you to sell their fudge and you get 40% of the profits.
13. Enjoy the City-This is another coupon book. It tends to be smaller and more localized than the Entertainment books but the coupons in this book tend to give deeper discounts.
24. Movie Tickets - Theaters like Regal allow you to buy movie tickets in bulk at a 35-40% discount and re-sell them.
14. Little Caesars Pizza Kit - Little Caesars offers pizza kits for fundraising for groups. 15. Local Resources- Check around at local businesses or craft groups, many offer up a percentage back to you for your referral. 16. Jeans Day- Ask your employer if they will host a jeans or casual work day in exchange for a donation to your cause. 17. Bake Sale- Host a bake sale and ask friends or family to help by contributing their favorite goodies. Hold it in conjunction with another event such as a neighborhood garage sale, sporting event, etc. 18. Garage Sale - Host a garage sales and get rid of the stuff lying around your house. 19. Candy Sale- Ask to set up a table at a local store and sell candy. 20. Discount Coupons - Talk to local department stores and see if they will provide one day coupons that you can sell. The store receives your advertisement and for a small fee your friends and family get an awesome discount. 21. Pancake Breakfast - Check at the local Lodge, Chapter, fire department, community center or church and ask if you can use their facilities to host a pancake fundraiser. Check into local pancake restaurants, many allow individuals to host a breakfast for charity. Host it on a Sunday when people are looking for a place to eat before or after church. 22. Big Box Shops - Ask your local Walmart, Mall or grocery store if you can sell items for your cause. Favorites are candy, and bake sales. Winter Issue 2014
25. See's Candy Sale - See's candy has several different fundraiser options. 26. Have a BBQ - Host your own BBQ for a fundraiser. There are also numerous catering companies that will also help you raise money. 27. Sherwood Forest Farms - Sell wreaths and garlands for the holidays. This company has on-line tools too. 28. Fasttrack Fundraising - offers numerous options to fund raise. The options range from discount coupons to lollipop sales. 29. Worlds Finest Chocolate can be a lucrative fundraiser if you have the money to invest up front. The fundraisers offer chocolate bars and products for as low as $1. Items can be personalized doubling as advertisement for your charity. Proceeds can net 4550%. 30. Lollipop Tree - Set up a lollipop tree that requires as large donation, such as $25. Every lollipop has a number that corresponds to a prize such as gift certificates to local stores or events. 31. 50/50 Raffle- Sell tickets for a 50/50 raffle. Your charity or group keeps half of the proceeds and the winner of the drawing receives the other half. Use this in addition to another event you have to increase revenue instead of alone. Good places to host 50/50s are at restaurant events, ball games, gift wrapping stations, or other charity events. 32. Drawing for Gift Cards - Ask local businesses for gift card donations, then use the gift cards in a drawing for those who donate money to your cause.
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Collect Change
33. Collect Coins - Instead of using your spare change when you pay cash, take that change and place it in a bucket. 34. Restaurants - Check around at pay at counter restaurants and ask if you can place a spare change jar in their store. 35. Your Job - Put a spare change jar at your desk at work. 36. Spare Change Drive - Hand out bags or small containers for friends, students, co-workers to collect spare change for your cause. 37. Pick up a Penny - I read a great article in Runner's World about a man who picked up change on the road when he was out on his daily runs. Over the decades he had run he had picked up thousands of dollars in change.
Will Work for Donations
38. Wrap Gifts for Donations - Many bookstores, malls and stores allow you to wrap gifts for donations during holidays. Some even provide the paper and all the tools you need for exchange for your time volunteering. Check with your local book store or mall and ask if they have a program. 39. Offer to Pass Out Flyers for Donations - Many small local businesses are in need of marketing help. Check out food places you frequent particularly ones owned by local owners and ask if you can hang door hangers or pass out flyers in exchange for a donation to your charity.
Host a Party
40. Tail Gate Party- Tail Gate for a football, baseball or any other sporting event. Invite your friends and charge a fee. 41. Children's Party - As a mom, I am always looking for fun activities for my children. Host a children's party complete with crafts, treats, goodies etc. This is great for holiday events such as Valentines Day, Easter, Christmas or other holidays. Charge a per child fee and make sure everyone has a ball! page 14
42. Mardi Gras-Host a party where you know people will have a great time. Order beads, a king cake from New Orleans, masks, coins and have an all out goodtime. With that much fun, no one will mind paying a cover charge! 43. Halloween-Hosting a fun halloween party complete with costume prizes, drinks and food is a fun time and another great way to raise money! 44. Bowl-A-Thon - Check with your local bowling ally. Many of them host bowl-a-thons and lock ins to raise money all while having fun bowling. 45. Bingo! Host a Bingo Fundraiser. For more great ideas and tips on how to host a bingo fundraiser click here. 46. Vegas Night Fundraiser - Host a vegas night fundraiser. Check local vendors in your area. The format will be based on local laws. While many states may not let you gamble for money, winners can cash in their chips for drawing tickets. 47. Wine Tasting Night - Host a wine tasting event complete with appetizers and various local or unique wines. Add a silent and live auction to maximize profits. 48. Rollerskating Night - Bring back old memories and create new ones with a fundraiser that will please the whole family. Organize it durning time of year where indoor activities are desirable such as a winter break during snow season.
Corporate Sponsors
49. Company Matches - Many corporations will match employee donations up to a certain dollar amount. Ask friends that donate money if their company has a company match policy. 50. Grants - Some corporations offer grants to their employees to their charity of choice when they have volunteered a certain number of hours to a charity. Check with your company for such a policy. 51. Product Donations - Ask companies you frequent often if they are willing to donate any items for a raffle, drawing or auction. Missouri Outreach
52. Banners -Sell banners to display as advertising at your event. This is great for baseball/t-ball teams, indoor or outdoor soccer leagues, large events or other sporting or group events that host a large number of people.
Organize Sports Events
Organizing a sporting event is very time consuming. Make sure you have lots of help and some experienced individuals to help you. 53. Golf Tournament - This is not for the faint of heart. Organizing a tournament is very time consuming and can take a large number of individuals, but it can also be very profitable. Sell foursomes, get hole sponsors, ads in the flyers, hole in one contests, get donations, sell social tickets, and invite a few good vendors to allow the ladies to shop. Do not forget the goody bags, door prizes, food and fun. 54. Organize a 5k - Make sure you have a good marketing plan, pick a place such as a park with trails to make the course easier to officiate, have races for the kids and offer options for both walkers and runners. Do not forget goody bags, t-shirts and food and plenty of water stations!
Auctions
There are so many fabulous ways to host an auction these days. Here are just a few ideas. 55. Silent Auction - Add a silent auction during an event such as golf tournament or hold with a General Auction. 56. Chinese Auction - These are great when the prizes are smaller in nature. Sell tickets and place entry boxes in front of each raffle item. The participants can put as many or few of the tickets in the box of the item of their choice. A winner is then drawn at the end of the auction. You can raise more money for a single smaller item because individuals are placing their tickets for a chance to win the item and the entry fee is small. 57. General Auction - Get the numbered paddles out! General auctions are great for parties where there are a lot of attendants, great bidding items and a terrific MC. They can bring in big money fast. Winter Issue 2014
58. Bidding for Good is a way to host an on-line auction. If you have some fabulous items to auction off but want to maximize the number of bidders then this is a great way. This is also perfect for schools. Grandparents and remote family members can also join in the fun and raise money for a great cause!
"You Name it" -A-thon
59. Hold a Telethon - Telethons have long been around but are often reserved for non-profits with very large resources. But there are lots of other a-thons you can hold that do not take up the time and resources as a telethon. • Rock-a-thon - Bands or rocking chairs, you name it! • Ski-a-thon - Twenty-four hours, a lighted skislope and some rock star skiers willing to battle the slopes to raise funds. • Walk-a-thon - Easy fun fundraising that can incorporate the entire family. • Bowl-a-thon - Disco lights, a bowling ball, pizza and unlimited bowling fun. • Sing-a-thon - All you need is a Kareoke machine, friends and a fun venue. • Prayer-a-thon - Individuals can make a donation and place a prayer request for a loved one. Your volunteers light a candle and pray. You can make this even more personal by providing a prayer card or a personal note in return. • Sport-a-thon - Name your sport and turn it into a 24 hour fundraising event! 60. Flamingo a Yard - Probably one of the most fun and creative fundraiser's "Flock" someone's yard with flamingo's for a donation. Donators can pick a friend's house to flamingo for a specified dollar donation. Whatever way you decide to raise funds toward a project or the Creating-A-Partnership (CAP) Program, make it a fun experience and don’t be afraid to ask for help...or funds.
Excerpted from an article on http://www.squidoo.com/101_ways_ to_fundraise. Original idea for this article is credited to David Emering, a member of St. Charles Lodge No. 241.
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T Show Me Good Deeds Done
he Missouri Show-Me State Grand Representative Club has approximately 400 members and takes its benevolent nature earnestly. This group of sisters and brothers support many projects including Masonic youth organizations, MoCHIP, Educational Fund Board, Lois J. Newman Outstanding Youth Scholarship Program, and the Masonic Home of Missouri’s Outreach clients. During the year, the members meet in various locations that coincide with the Worthy Grand Matron’s inspections and in August, they hold a brunch at the Masonic Complex in Columbia to make plans for future projects. One of their recent projects was held at the Grand Chapter session in October, when the Grand Representative Club presented a defibrillator and batteries for the Grand Chapter nurses. This life-saving gift was made in memory of Sister Mary Ann Browning, one of the original organizers of the club. In the past, the Club had visited the Masonic Home of Missouri’s St. Louis facility and the Western Unit in Kansas City. During the visits, each Masonic client was presented with a financial gift to brighten their holiday season. Last year, the Club
Boxes waiting to be mailed to Outreach clients.
decided that they should branch out and make it a state-wide effort to support all Outreach clients. A decision was made to put together ‘care packages’ that could be sent to the Masonic Home of Missouri’s Outreach clients. In August, postal boxes were given to the members, with the request for them to be filled and returned at Grand Chapter. As Donna Miller, Past page 16
President of the Missouri Show-Me State Grand Representative Club recalls, “The first night, I got a little nervous because I only had about 10 boxes turned in but by Sunday, the response was overwhelming! We had over 90 boxes turned in and one donation from a member. You have to try something new or you will never know what will happen. This has been so exciting.” Bev Steelman, Club President for 2014, has already agreed to do the same project next year for the Outreach clients.
(l-r): Bev Steelman and Donna Miller work on readying the boxes for mailing.
Each box contains unique items such as hygiene items, washcloths, socks, journals, puzzle books, candy, knick knacks, pens, and even notecards with stamped envelopes. The Masonic Home will address each box to a current Financial Assistance Outreach client and postage will be paid by the Grand Representative Club. The boxes will be mailed out the first week of December in order for them to reach the clients before the Christmas holiday. The Missouri Show-Me State Grand Representative Club claims the Ladybug as their mascot and adopted the uniform of a red blazer, white shirt and black slacks or skirts. The Ladybug is a symbol of ‘hospitality’ and ‘good deeds done’. Through partnering with the Masonic Home of Missouri and helping our Outreach Program clients, the Missouri Show-Me State Grand Representative Club members have embodied good deeds done. Missouri Outreach
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alling is a serious concern for people at any age. But for adults age 73 or above, falls are a leading cause of injury-related death according to the National Safety Council. When you walk on ice, extra precaution is needed because your chances of slipping increase dramatically. Sometimes, you will not even see the ice on the sidewalks. Prevent falls on ice by following some specific tips.
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Stay physically healthy. Those who have good fitness levels are stronger and more flexible, according to the National Safety Council.
Keep sidewalks clear of ice. Shovel snow and ice so they do not accumulate on them. Use a dissolving agent such as rock salt on outdoor surfaces to keep surfaces dry. If you are unable to complete the work yourself, hire someone, or ask for help from neighbors or family members.
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Wear shoes with sturdy soles and good treads. The outer sole of your shoes help you grip the ground as you walk. If your shoes or boots have become smooth on the bottom, wear something over your shoes or replace them.
Walking on Ice
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Assume that all surfaces are slippery, so you will be aware of your surroundings and more cautious as you walk. This is also important when getting out of a car and stepping down on the ground. When you are caught off-guard by slippery surfaces, you can fall.
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Keep your eyes and head up. Looking down at the ground throws off your balance and could cause you to bump into someone or something straight ahead of you. If you have glasses and look down, you might trip because your vision is compromised. Winter Issue 2014
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Walk like a penguin. Your center of gravity widens this way. Point your toes out and shift your weight from side to side like a penguin does; this type of walking feels, and looks, a lot like a shuffle. Place your feet fully on the ground as you walk. It can be tempting to walk on tiptoes across ice. Des Moines Area Community College recommends that you walk with flat feet and slightly bent knees while on ice.
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Keep your arms out at your side and slightly extended when on icy sidewalks. Do not put your hands in your pockets or on your hips. Think of someone walking on a tightrope and maintaining balance with his arms. Excerpted from the website eHow.com from an articled entitled “How to Walk on Icy Sidewalks� by Vanessa Newman. http://www.ehow. com/how_7322587_walk-icy-sidewalks.html#ixzz2llpeeU5c
If you have an article on how your Lodge is utilizing our Outreach Programs and would be interested in submitting to the Spring edition of the Missouri Outreach magazine, please contact Rhonda Stone Lightfoot at 800-434-9804 by February 1, 2014. All photos will have to have a photo release form accompany them. Photo release forms can be downloaded from our website at www.mohome. org or be mailed upon request. Photographs submitted for publication will not be returned. The Editor reserves the right to accept, reject, subedit and rearrange material submitted for publication. Submit articles to: rlightfoot@ mohome.org
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raduation from high school is a huge accomplishment and a significant transition in a young person’s life, leading to new opportunities and adventures. Should a high school graduate decide to continue down the road to higher education, they will have to find a way to fund that journey. This, for many young people, will be their first experience applying for a loan and has the potential of becoming a crash course in personal finance. They will be asking questions like: Where do I start? How do I qualify for a student loan? Where do I go to apply? The process can be confusing and intimidating, even with the assistance of parents and grandparents who have long since established their credit history. Here are a few of the basics every new college student and their family should know about student loans and other potential funding sources for school.
Student Loans 101
By Carly Dibben, Financial Counseling Caseworker
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here are two main types of student loans, private and federal, and many sub-categories to each. Private loans are exactly what they sound like, a private loan taken with a private bank or lender. The majority of these loans are unsecured, but a lender can require collateral depending on the loan amount. They can have fixed or variable rates of interest, which generally start accruing from the date of disbursement, as well as other fees and charges. They also often require that repayment begin immediately, but in some cases repayment can be delayed. The terms of each private student loan will vary depending on the lender. For these reasons, private loans tend to be very costly. It’s usually in the borrower’s best interest to avoid private loans until they have first maximized their use of all federal loans available to them. To apply for a private student loan, the borrower would directly contact the bank or lender of their choosing.
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ederal Loans are a little easier to separate into four categories: Stafford Loans, PLUS Loans, Perkins Loans, and Consolidation Loans. Stafford Loans can be granted by the federal government or third-party lender, but all are federally backed loans. They can be subsidized, where the borrower is not charged interest until after they have left school, or unsubsidized, where interest is charged from disbursement of the loan until paid in full. Subsidized Stafford Loans are granted to students who demonstrate a financial need based on federal guidelines. Both the subsidized and unsubsidized Stafford Loans have deferred repayment while the Missouri Outreach
student is enrolled in school with at least half-time attendance. As of 2013, the interest rates of a Stafford Loan will be adjusted annually based on the current market. However, since they are a federally backed loan, the rates are usually lower. http://studentaid. ed.gov/types/loans/subsidized-unsubsidized
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LUS, which stands for Parent Loans for Undergraduate Students, Loans are for parents of students who are enrolled at an approved school or institution with a minimum of half-time attendance. The borrower can only borrow the difference between the cost of the student’s attendance and the total of other financial aid the student receives. Repayment and interest accrual for a PLUS loan start immediately. Further, PLUS Loans are not granted to those with an adverse credit history. If interested in a PLUS Loan, more information can be found at: http://studentaid.ed.gov/types/loans/plus
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ederal Perkins Loans are available for both undergraduate and graduate students. These loans are made by the educational institution, but are guaranteed and funded by the U.S. Department of Education. The amount of a Perkins Loan is based on three factors; when the student applies, the level of need, and the funding level of the school. The interest rates are fixed for the life of the loan, but usually must be repaid within ten years of being disbursed. While the funds for these loans are from the federal government, payments are made directly to the school. To learn details of eligibility for a Perkins Loan, please refer to: http://studentaid.ed.gov/types/loans/perkins
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he forth category of federal student loans are Consolidation Loans. Often times this type of loan is utilized once a student has graduated or left school. It offers a borrower the option to combine all of their smaller federal student loans into one loan for repayment. More information regarding student loan consolidation can be found at: http:// studentaid.ed.gov/repay-loans/consolidation
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application to identify a student’s eligibility for state, school, or private aid as well, making this application a potential resource for locating additional student aid. Student loans are not the only funding source for a higher education. Most students also utilize grants and scholarships, financial aid that doesn’t require repayment, to off-set their expenses as well. Grants and scholarships are given by the federal government, state, and private organizations based on many factors. Some qualifying factors for grants and scholarship, include financial need, area of study, area in which you live, academic achievement, and proficiency in athletics or the arts. In addition to the FAFSA, the best way to learn of funding opportunities through grants and scholarships is through your chosen school and other local organizations. Other resources to refer to are: http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/ home.html or http://www.ed.gov/fund/landing.html
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tudents planning to continue their education are not always expecting all the additional lessons that go along with venturing out into the world. It can be shocking to them the amount of money it will cost to follow their dreams. Their first exposure to applying for a loan and establishing their credit history will set the tone for their approach to debt management in the future. As their parents, grandparents, and family members it is important to encourage them to fully research the loans they are accepting, keep track of the amount they owe, and to understand their responsibilities for repayment. While these lessons will not reflect on their grade-point average, and certainly will not get them on the dean’s list, they will help to make them fiscally responsible adults in the future.
Resources used in writing this article include: • h t t p : / / e n . w i k i p e d i a . o r g / w i k i / P r i v a t e _ stu d e nt _ l o an _ ( Un ite d _ St ate s ) , • h t t p : / / w w w. d u m m i e s . c o m / h o w - t o / c o n t e n t / the-types-of-federal-student-loans.html • h t t p : / / s t u d e n t a i d . e d . g o v / • h t t p : / / w w w . s t a f f o r d l o a n . c o m / • h t t p : / / w w w . d i r e c t . e d . g o v / a p p l y i n g . h t m l • h t t p : / / w w w. g r a n t s . g o v / w e b / g r a n t s / h o m e . h t m l
o apply for a federal student loan, the borrower must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, also known as a FAFSA. This application, which becomes available in early January each year, can be found online at www.fafsa.ed.gov and is free to complete and submit. Many schools, states, and private financial providers will utilize the FAFSA Winter Issue 2014
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Posttraumatic Stress Disorder & Treatment Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can occur after someone goes through a traumatic event like combat, assault, or disaster. Most people have some stress reactions after a trauma. If the reactions don’t go away over time or disrupt your life, you may have PTSD.
Symptoms of PTSD
It is normal to have stress reactions after a traumatic event. Your emotions and behavior can change in ways that are upsetting to you. Even though most people have stress reactions following a trauma, they get better in time. But, you should seek help if symptoms: • Last longer than three months • Cause you great distress • Disrupt your work or home life Symptoms of PTSD may disrupt your life and make it hard to continue with your daily activities. You may find it hard just to get through the day. There are four types of PTSD symptoms: 1. Reliving the event (also called re-experiencing symptoms). Memories of the traumatic event can come back at any time. You may feel the same fear and horror you did when the event took place. page 20
For example: • You may have nightmares. • You may feel like you are going through the event again. This is called a flashback. • You may see, hear, or smell something that causes you to relive the event. This is called a trigger. News reports, seeing an accident, or hearing a car backfire are examples of triggers. 2. Avoiding situations that remind you of the event. You may try to avoid situations or people that trigger memories of the traumatic event. You may even avoid talking or thinking about the event. For example: • You may avoid crowds, because they feel dangerous. • You may avoid driving if you were in a car accident or if your military convoy was bombed. • If you were in an earthquake, you may avoid watching movies about earthquakes. • You may keep very busy or avoid seeking help because it keeps you from having to think or talk about the event. 3. Negative changes in beliefs and feelings The way you think about yourself and others changes because of the trauma. This symptom has many Missouri Outreach
aspects, including the following: • You may not have positive or loving feelings toward other people and may stay away from relationships. • You may forget about parts of the traumatic event or not be able to talk about them. • You may think the world is completely dangerous, and no one can be trusted. 4. Feeling keyed up (also called hyperarousal) You may be jittery, or always alert and on the lookout for danger. You might suddenly become angry or irritable. This is known as hyperarousal. For example: • You may have a hard time sleeping. • You may have trouble concentrating. • You may be startled by a loud noise or surprise. • You might want to have your back to a wall in a restaurant or waiting room.
What should I do if I have symptoms of PTSD? PTSD symptoms usually start soon after the traumatic event. But for some people, they may not happen until months or years after the trauma. Symptoms may come and go over many years. So, you should keep track of your symptoms and talk to someone you trust about them. If you have symptoms that last longer than four weeks, cause you great distress, or disrupt your work or home life, you probably have PTSD. You should seek professional help from a doctor or counselor.
Where to Get Help for PTSD
Are you in crisis? You have options: • Call 911 • Go to the nearest Emergency Room • Call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-2738255 • Contact the Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800273-8255, press 1 (text 838255) or Confidential Veterans Chat at http://www. veteranscrisisline.net/ChatTermsOfService. aspx?account=Veterans%20Chat/ with a counselor Please note that the National Center for PTSD does not provide direct clinical care or individual referrals. They provide information to help you find local Winter Issue 2014
mental health services and information on trauma and PTSD.
PTSD Care for Veterans, Military, and Families
• Visit http://www.ptsd.va.gov/public/pages/helpfor-veterans-with-ptsd.asp for help for Veterans with PTSD to learn how to enroll for VA health care and get an assessment. • All VA Medical Centers provide PTSD care, as well as many VA clinics. http://www.va.gov/ directory/guide/home.asp • Some VA’s have programs specializing in PTSD treatment. Use the VA PTSD Program Locator to find a PTSD program. http://www.va.gov/ directory/guide/ptsd_flsh.asp • If you are a war Veteran, find a Vet Center to help with the transition from military to civilian life. http://www.vetcenter.va.gov/ • Call the 24/7 Veteran Combat Call Center 1-877-WAR-VETS (1-877-927-8387) to talk to another combat Veteran. http://www.vetcenter. va.gov/media/Call-Center-PSA.asp • DoD’s Defense Centers of Excellence (DCoE) 24/7 Outreach Center for Psychological Health & Traumatic Brain Injury provides information and helps locate resources. http://www.dcoe.mil/ Families/Help.aspx • Call 1-866-966-1020 or email resources@ dcoeoutreach.org • Military OneSource. Call 24/7 for counseling and many resources 1-800-342-9647. http:// www.militaryonesource.mil/ Information presented in this article is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for informed medical advice or training. Do not use this information to diagnose or treat a mental health problem without consulting a qualified health or mental health care provider.
*This is the fourth of several articles in a series dedicated to Missouri Masons who are also Veterans. All materials in this article were excerpted from the Veterans Affairs website at va.gov. The Masonic Home of Missouri does not represent nor is affiliated with the Veterans Affairs or the Department of Defences.
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here are so many legacies from which we draw. Parents oftentimes leave us with a powerful set of values and a strong legacy of service and acceptance of others. Even our faith creates in us a legacy of strong biblical knowledge and curiosity and humility. Our fraternity has invested in us legacies of affirmation and opportunity, of unconditional love and brotherly friendships that stand the test of time, of nurtured faith and tested values and growing stewardship. As we focus on all the blessings left us by others, by our lodge and by our life experiences, we must ask ourselves: What legacy will I leave? Hopefully these will include the hope of a strong faith, the enduring power of nonjudgmental love, and perhaps even the desire to make of our lives a difference in the world. As part of this, consider how including the Masonic Home in your end-of-life giving plans will provide a legacy to future generations seeking to grow in faith and wisdom. How can you help the Masonic Home of Missouri serve Mason’s and their families forever?
Retirement Assets can be a Tax Burden A retirement account, such as an IRA, 401(k), or 403(b), often comprises a large portion of a person’s wealth. Yet did you know they are the most heavily taxed — and a perfect instrument for making a charitable gift at death? The way in which you distribute the assets in your retirement accounts can reflect your care for the Brotherhood. By naming the Masonic Home as beneficiary of your retirement account, you can pass on assets you no longer can use, and spare your estate the tax burden affiliated with these plans. Simply ask the manager of your account to send you a beneficiary designation form, and complete it with the proper legal name of the Masonic Home of Missouri. Doing so allows the funds to pass tax-free. page 22
Missouri Outreach
Remember to consult your financial advisors on the ramifications of this decision since individual circumstances vary. If you’d like to learn more about how you can help the Masonic Home through retirement plan assets or in your will, contact the Masonic Home of Missouri’s Development Department at (800) 434-9804. We will be happy to show you how your gift large or small can give back to Master Mason, their widows and children from now until the end of time! Remember: by giving a gift in your will or through your retirement fund you become a member of the Masonic Home of Missouri Legacy Society! This makes sure that your family name is remembered forever and more importantly Master Masons, their wives, widows, female members of the Order of the Eastern Star and children throughout this state will benefit from your love every year!
The Benefit of Giving When you donate to the Masonic Home of Missouri, your greatest benefit is the knowledge that you are helping your Masonic brothers and sisters in need. Not just that, doing so qualifies you for tax deductions too.
December 31, 2013 will qualify as a deduction for 2013. The good news is that you can donate online at www.mohome.org 24 hours a day/7 days a week so it’s easy to make that last minute donation!
3. When I donate, will I get a receipt? Yes. When you make a donation to the Masonic Home of Missouri you will receive an acknowledgement letter that will serve as a receipt for your donation. This letter will include the amount of your gift and 1. Is my donation tax-deductible? Absolutely! IRS required language stating whether or not you The Masonic Home of Missouri qualifies for 501(c)(3) received goods or services. You should always keep non-profit status from the IRS — and that means every a hard copy of your receipt for your tax records. donation you give counts as a tax-deductible donation. Additionally, the Home will send you a statement in early 2014 summarizing your gifts for the previous With that said however, if you receive goods or tax year so you have all of your donations in one quick services in exchange for your donation (i.e. playing and easy summary to reference when filing your taxes. in the golf tournament) then only the portion Can I deduct expenses I incur from that exceeds the value of goods and services 4. received will be tax deductible. The Home will volunteering? Although individual taxpayers notify you in writing of the value of goods and may not deduct the value of their volunteering some expenses incurred while services received in these instances so you have services, the appropriate documentation for tax purposes. volunteering, for example, travel expenses are deductible if they are not reimbursed by the charity. 2. I want my giving to be deductible for this tax year. Do I need to make a donation by a certain time? Yes. Any donation made on or by midnight Here are some answers to common questions about donations. However, you should consult your own tax or financial advisor before making personal financial decisions.
Winter Issue 2014
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What’s in the Numbers?
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is the page in our FY13 Annual Report that shows our Monetary Assistance by Region Map. This map shows the total assistance (excluding the Creating-A-Partnership (CAP) Program) that was distributed throughout the State of Missouri by the Masonic Home of Missouri.
53%
125
years of dedicated service to Master Masons, their wives, widows,female members of the order of the Eastern Star and children throughout the state by the Masonic Home of Missouri.
teams of golf players helped us raise over $20,000 during our 11th Annual “Leaves of Autumn” Golf Outing held on October 7, 2013. This important charity event helps raise much needed funds for our Children’s Financial Outreach Program and our Creating-A-Partnership (CAP) Program.
10% growth in individual giving from FY12 to FY13. An increase in donor support, offset by a decrease in investment income, contributed to an increase in overall operating revenues of 5%. *from the FY13 Annual Report
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Condolence cards were sent to families in FY13. Cards are sent when a Missouri Mason passes away. If the Home is able to identify the widow, a widow’s pin and a card with her deceased husband’s Masonic information on it is also sent.
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of financial assistance through our Outreach Programs was to Widows or Widows who are also Order of the Eastern Star members.
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Lodges and Chapters participated in the Creating-A-Partnership (CAP) Program in FY13. This matching funds program creates a partnership between the Masonic Home and the Lodges/Chapters to assist children in need in their communities. This program makes a difference in the life of a child that would otherwise go without the things that so many of us take for granted, like a coat or food to eat during the weekend.
$1,027,135.88 in direct financial assistance to 156 Missouri Master Masons, their wives, widows, female members of the Order of the Eastern Star, and children. *This does not include the CreatingA-Partnership (CAP) Program. Missouri Outreach
Financial Counseling Program “Educating Your Finances” For All!
The Home’s Financial Counseling Program is an educational program that is able to assist Masonic affiliated members and their loved ones through difficult financial situations. Unlike the financial assistance programs offered by the Home, there is no Age & Length of Membership requirement for the services offered through Financial Counseling. Many of the participants of the program are referred from the Short-Term Financial Assistance program, but Masonic members can receive this free service by contacting the Home and requesting a Financial Counseling consultation. Financial Counseling staff assists participants in organizing their finances, creating a budget, prioritizing their expenses and debt, lowering or eliminating variable expenses, determining solvency, net worth, and basic liquidity, assistance in creating financial goals and a plan to obtain those goals, guidance through foreclosure or Deed In Lieu, and referral to other financial services that the Home cannot provide (such as debt consolidation and bankruptcy). The Financial Counseling Program is also beneficial for applicants applying for Long-Term Financial Assistance. These clients are elderly Master Masons, Masonic widows, and elderly female OES members. Financial Counseling helps them in budgeting, understanding MO HealthNet (Medicaid) eligibility rules, assistance in identifying other services and income sources they might qualify for (such as MO HealthNet, VA benefits, etc.), and referral to other financial services the Home cannot provide (such as investment services, estate planning, retirement strategies, etc.). This program is most helpful for older couples, widows, Master Masons, and female OES members who are planning to make major changes to their lifestyles, such as moving to an Assisted Living Facility. Financial Counseling assists them in determining if their income and assets are adequate for the move, how the move will change their expenses and monthly budget, and assists them in identifying additional potential income sources.
For the Kids!
The Financial Counseling Program has recently introduced an new educational program for the Masonic youth organizations (DeMolay, Job’s Daughters, and Rainbow Girls) and other youth groups that are sponsored by a local Masonic Lodge or OES Chapter. Financial Counseling staff started giving presentations to participating Lodges, Chapters, Bethels, and Assemblies this past fall. The presentation focuses on basic financial information that all young people should know. Topics covered include how to generate an income, explanation of income and federal taxes, prioritizing spending and savings, tracking and budgeting money, investments, explanation of credit and interest, credit reports and scores, and types of student loans. Carly Dibben is the Home’s Financial Counseling Caseworker and is an Accredited Financial Counselor through AFCPE. She has been an employee of the Home since April of 2006. If you are interested in a Financial Counseling consultation or would like to arrange for a presentation for a local youth group, please contact Carly at cdibben@mohome.org or 800-434-9804.
Winter Issue 2014
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Each year fire claims the lives of 3,400 Americans, injures 17,500, and causes billions of dollars worth of damage. People living in rural areas are more than twice as likely to die in a fire than those living in mid-sized cities or suburban areas. The misuse of wood stoves, portable space heaters and kerosene heaters are especially common risks in rural areas. All heating equipment needs space. Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away. Supervise children whenever a wood stove or space heater is being used. Have a three-foot “kidfree” zone around open fires and space heaters.
Wood Stoves
Wood stoves cause over 4,000 residential fires every year. Carefully follow the manufacturer’s installation and maintenance instructions. Look for solid construction, such as plate steel or cast iron metal. Check for cracks and inspect legs, hinges and door seals for smooth joints and seams. Use only seasoned wood for fuel, not green wood, artificial logs, or trash. In pellet stoves, burn only dry, seasoned wood pellets. Inspect and clean your pipes and chimneys annually and check monthly for damage or obstructions.
Electric Space Heaters
Buy only heaters evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL). Check to make sure it has a thermostat control mechanism, and will switch off automatically if the heater falls over. Heaters are not dryers or tables; don’t dry clothes or store objects on top of your heater. Plug space heaters directly into wall outlets and never into an extension cord or power strip. Always unplug your electric space heater when not in use.
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Kerosene Heaters
Buy only heaters evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL), and check with your local fire department on the legality of kerosene heater use in your community. Never fill your heater with gasoline or camp stove fuel; both flare-up easily. Only use crystal clear K-1 kerosene. When refueling, allow the appliance to cool first and then refuel outside. Never overfill any portable heater. Use the kerosene heater in a well ventilated room.
Fireplaces
Fireplaces regularly build up creosote in their chimneys. They need to be cleaned out frequently and chimneys should be inspected for obstructions and cracks to prevent deadly chimney and roof fires. Check to make sure the damper is open before starting any fire. Never burn trash, paper or green wood in your fireplace. These materials cause heavy creosote buildup and are difficult to control. Use a screen heavy enough to stop rolling logs and big enough to cover the entire opening of the fireplace to catch flying sparks. Don’t wear loose-fitting clothes near any open flame. Make sure the fire is completely out before leaving the house or going to bed. Allow ashes to cool before disposing of them. Place ashes in a tightly covered metal container and keep the ash container at least 10 feet away from your home and any other nearby buildings. Never empty the ash directly into a trash can. Douse and saturate the ashes with water. Finally, having a working smoke alarm dramatically increases your chances of surviving a fire. And remember to practice a home escape plan frequently with your family. Printed with permission from Fema. Article orginally printed on http://www.usfa.fema.gov/citizens/home_fire_prev/heating/hotspot. shtm
Missouri Outreach
How to Show Your Support! Celebrating 125 years of helping Masons, their wives, widows, female members of the Order of the Eastern Star and children throughout Missouri is a special event. We are excited to offer several items to commemorate this special event. Both items below are available for purchase through our website at www. mohome.org
125th Anniversary Commemorative Coin This 1.5� antique silver finish coin will be available on January 1, 2014 through our website, from our Board of Directors or at all Ladies Luncheons & Teas. Lodges and Chapers are welcome to purchase the coins to sell or give away within their Lodge/Chapter. There is a limited amount available. We have the original coin that was presented at the dedication of the first home in 1889 and this coin closely depicts it. The design on the front of the coin is taken from the original coin and shows the first home. The back of the coin shows our 125th logo. Cost is $12.50/coin
125th Commemorative Ornament This limited edition pewter collector’s ornament commemorates the 125th Anniversary and is available through the website or our Holiday Fund Drive. This ornament is only available for a limited time and is the first in a series of ornaments that will be released over the next four years. This first ornament shows the orginal home on the front and has information about the formation of the Masonic Home of Missouri on the back. Cost is $125.00/ornament Winter Issue 2014
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How to Survive the Cold and Flu Season
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s the temperature drops and we say goodbye to summer, we start to prepare for a long cold season, not just temperature wise, but in terms of illness. While getting the occasional cold and flu is not abnormal, it does put a damper on our day to day. In this article I’ll discuss a few good tips to help prevent getting the cold and/or flu.
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Get some zzzzzzs - It is crucial to get a good nights sleep, without it we become more tired and our body focuses on keeping us going rather than fighting any infection. So stop burning the midnight oil and get some rest, especially during the cold and flu season. Wash your hands - It is so easy to absent-mindedly touch your face, but think of what that hand has been touching... especially in this season! Wash your hands often as they are one of the gateways to transmit infection from person page 28
to person. Make sure you also encourage your kids to wash their hands as soon as they get home from school to help minimize the spread of germs.
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No more sugar - Sugar is probably one of the worse things you can eat for your health. Did you know that eating the equivalent of 1 teaspoon of sugar per day can depress your immune system for 4 hours! Now that’s a long time for your body to lose its defences during the prime time for infection.
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Eat the rainbow - Eating a colourful array of fruits and vegetables ensures that you are getting a vast amount of phytonutrients thus ensuring that you get the most vitamins and minerals from your diet to support your natural immune defences.
Missouri Outreach
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Soak up the sun - Getting your daily vitamin D continues to be important all through the winter as it is also an important factor in proper immune function. If you’re not getting outside very often consider supplementing with liquid vitamin D daily. Time for exercise - Following an exercise regime can increase your immune function and keep you feeling great. However, make sure you don’t over do it since intense exercise can have the opposite effect!
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Probiotics - Did you know that the majority of your immune system is found in your gut? Not kidding! So you can imagine if your gut is not colonized with the “good” bacteria then you’re already fighting a losing battle. Consider taking a daily probiotic to ensure that you’re providing some crowd control and keeping the “bad” bacteria out! Provencher, Veronic “How To Survive The Cold And Flu Season.” How To Survive The Cold And Flu Season. 16 Oct. 2013 EzineArticles.com. 7 Nov. 2013 <http://ezinearticles.com/?How-To-Survive- The-Cold-And-Flu-Season&id=8066474>.
Decrease stress - I know easier said than done. But keep in mind that the more stress you have in your life the more stress this puts on your immune system and thus making you more susceptible to infection.
Important Dates Wednesday, December 25, 2013 • Office closed Wednesday, January 1, 2014 • Office closed Saturday, January 18, 2014 • Board of Director’s Meeting in Columbia, MO. Monday, January 20, 2014 • Office closed Saturday, February 1, 2014 • Rising Sun Lodge No. 13 (Kansas City) Sweetheart Dinner Saturday, February 8, 2014 • Hermitage Lodge No. 288 (Hermitage) Ladies Dinner Wednesday, February 12, 2014 • MHM Representative Newsletter mailed Saturday, February 22, 2014 • Board of Director’s Meeting in Columbia, MO. Winter Issue 2014
Saturday, February 22, 2014 • Branson Lodge No. 587 (Branson) Sweetheart Dinner Saturday, March 8, 2014 • Ray Lodge No. 223 (Camden) Widows Dinner Saturday, March 8, 2014 • Hogles Creek Lodge No. 279 (Wheatland) Widows Dinner Monday, March 10, 2014 • King Hill Lodge No. 376 (St. Joseph) Representative Training. Wednesday, March 19, 2014 • Missouri Outreach Magazine mailed Saturday, March 22, 2014 • Board of Director’s Meeting in Columbia, MO Monday, March 24, 2014 • Temperance Lodge No. 438 (Smithville) Representative Training
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Masonic Home of Missouri Contact Information
Ever wonder who you need to call to ask a question about a program or who could help you make arrangements for a presenter at a event? We have compiled this listing of staff functions and contact information for your use. Before discarding this magazine, please tear this page off and place somewhere that you can refer back to it during the year. Main Contact Information: Masonic Home of Missouri 6033 Masonic Drive, Suite A Columbia, MO 65202 (573) 814-4663 Phone (800) 434-9804 Toll Free (573) 814-4660 Fax Website: www.mohome.org
Barbara Ramsey Executive Director Ext. 209 bramsey@mohome.org Administrative Support Michelle Phillippe Administrative Assistant Ext. 213 mphillippe@mohome.org *Responsible for building calendar, & rental, Museum loan agreements, Board Packet preparation/support, and office supply inventory. Facilities John Hendrickson Building Engineer Ext. 225 jhendrickson@mohome.org * Responsible for general operating Receptionist Tiffany Estes *Answers phone calls for the complex, assists visitors to the museum, special projects, and clerical support. page 30
Finance Department Jodi Blake Director of Finance Ext. 212 jblake@mohome.org Julie Wiecken Kirchhoff Annual Appeal Officer Ext. 230 jkirchhoff@mohome.org * Responsible for special events, Truman Club, Courtyard Paver Program, and donor relations. Andrea Thacher Accountant Ext. 223 athacher@mohome.org Lara Dieringer Accountant Ext. 229 ldieringer@mohome.org Outreach Programs Dana Morgenthaler Financial Assistance Caseworker Ext. 211 danam@mohome.org *Responsible for Long & Short Term Financial Assistance Casework and client referrals. Letitia “Tisha� Woodard Social Services & Creating-APartnership Caseworker Ext. 210 twoodard@mohome.org *Responsible for Creating-APartnership (CAP) Program, Long & Short Term Financial Assistance
Casework,and Resource Directories. Debbie Summers Financial Assistance Caseworker Ext. 219 dsummers@mohome.org * Responsible for Long & Short Term Financial Assistance Casework and client referrals. Chantana Irvin Masonic Family Cares & Widows Program Coordinator Ext. 239 cirvin@mohome.org * Responsible for arranging assistance through the Masonic Family Cares Program, and maintaining the Widows Program database. Carly Dibben, Financial Counseling Caseworker Ext. 217 cdibben@mohome.org * Responsible for financial counseling referrals and Long & Short Term Financial Assistance Casework. Rhonda Stone Lightfoot Membership Relations Specialist Ext. 218 rlightfoot@mohome.org * Responsible for marketing and communications, liasion for MHM Representatives, website, publications, and social media.
Missouri Outreach
Coming in 2014! Square & Compass Courtyard Re-Design
Celebrate our 125th Anniversary with a Paver Stone! In 2014, the Square & Compass Courtyard at the Masonic Complex will undergo a facelift and all stones will be replaced with granite pavers for a brighter, longer lasting impression. A commemorative 125th anniversary stone will be placed in a special section of the Courtyard dedicated to this momentous occasion. Donors who wish to “engrave� themselves in the historical celebration have an opportunity to purchase a special 12x12 paver with their name and a short message for the Home for a special price of $250, orders must be placed no later than February 28, 2014. The re-designed Courtyard and commemorative stone will be unveiled at the 125th Anniversary Open House in June 2014. Stone Size
# Characters/Symbols
Price
12x12 Anniversary Stone
40 characters
$250
12x12
40 char/1 symbol
$300
18x18
70 char/2 symbols
$550
24x24
100 char/2 symbols
$800
Deadline to order: Feb. 28th
Available for order only through Feb 28, 2014
Call Julie Kirchhoff (800) 434-9804 for more information or www.mohome.org to place your order online
Winter Issue 2014
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Masonic Home of Missouri 6033 Masonic Dr., Ste A Columbia, MO 65202 Phone: (573) 814-4663 Toll Free: (800) 434-9804 Fax: (573) 814-4663
What is this Weird Looking Thing?
They come to us from Japan where they are very common. QR is short for Quick Response (they can be read quickly by a cell phone). They are used to take a piece of information from another form of media (Facebook, website, Twitter, etc.) and put it in to your cell phone. You can find QR Codes in magazine advertisements, on billboards, web pages or even on someone’s t-shirt. Once it is in your cell phone, it may give you details about that business (allowing users to search for nearby locations), or details about the person wearing the t-shirt, show you a URL (website address) which you can click to see a trailer for a movie, or it may give you a coupon which you can use in a local outlet. The reason why they are more useful than a standard barcode is that they can store (and digitally present) much more data, including URL links, geographic coordinates, and text. The other key feature of QR Codes is that instead of requiring a chunky hand-held scanner to scan them, many modern cell phones can scan them. You can download free QR readers on most smart phones to find out what you are looking at. The Masonic Home of Missouri has started to use them in our Missouri Outreach magazine, social media feeds, brochures and other print materials because it allows for a quick update on information in-between the times that our publications are mailed out. Give it a try! Download a free QR Reader on your smartphone and scan the Code above.