Executive Director Notes

A Light in the Darkness

When we began to talk about this issue of the Masonic Outreach, we knew it was going to be about the pandemic. How could it not? It has affected everyone’s life for almost a year now. At the Masonic Home, we see this impact in our daily operations, the number of people we are helping, those clients we have lost, and the loneliness and isolation so many are feeling.

I can give you numbers, and you will see some of them in this magazine. I can share countless stories of clients in need and those we have lost. I can tell you about the report that went to the Board that brought tears to my eyes, as so many of our clients expressed their loneliness.

However, a light emanates from the Masonic Home through all of this darkness. It is a place where people come together to help one another. The Masonic Home makes it possible to connect those who can give to those who have a need.

When we put out a call to help connect people who were lonely, the Order of the Eastern Star said, "Yes – how can we help?" When we told the membership and our corporate sponsors that our financial need increased, but our donations were falling, they answered our mail and online appeal this fall in numbers we have not seen for years.

One of the things that I think makes the Masonic Home so special is that “need” is not narrowly defined. Yes, there is a financial need for many that we help, but the Masonic Home tries to meet needs beyond just financial ones. There is a need to feel connected to one another. There is a need in good and kind people to help others. Sometimes the need is someone to talk to that can help you navigate the difficulties in your life. For some, need is as simple as a card or a kind note to let others know they are not forgotten.

It appears that the struggles and hardships so many are facing will continue into 2021. The Masonic Home resides in every community where there are Masons and Order of the Eastern Star members willing to make a difference, and right now, there is a need in unprecedented levels everywhere. I invite you to join the Masonic Home, and we can make a difference in 2021 together.

Sending Smiles From Afar

The Masonic Home’s new Pen Pal program is all about making new friends during a challenging time.

By Brenna McDermott