Issuu

SPRING ISSUE 2013

YOUR GUIDE TO RESOURCES

Missouri Missouri Outreach Outreach A publication of the Masonic Home of Missouri

SUPPORTING THROUGH EDUCATION

Ladies Luncheons & Teas Have you attended a program yet? Page # 4 HELPFUL TIPS

Predatory Loans

How to avoid falling victim to the sharks. Page # 14 SPOTLIGHT ON...

Widows Program

How an Outreach Program makes a difference. Page # 19

Series Two of our Benefits and Resource Guide for Veterans & Military Spring2013.indd 1

5/13/2013 2:07:51 PM

Board of Directors David L. Ramsey, Chairman/GM Jon B. Broyles, President David W. Haywood, Vice President C. Brent Stewart, Secretary Richard L. Smith, Treasurer William J. Bowser Barry V. Cundiff Steven D. Duncan Chris T. Harrelson Jeffrey D. Lee H. Lee Stallings Charlie Wiegert William E. Zimmerman

Executive Director Keith Neese

Director of Outreach Programs Barbara Ramsey

Director of Finance Jodi Blake

Editor

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

Executive Director Notes Educating people about this wonderful Masonic charity is always on-going within the Fraternity. There is an old German Proverb that says â€œCharity sees the need, not the causeâ€? and this organization is dedicated to helping eligible Missouri Master Masons, their wives/widows, female members of the Order of the Eastern Star and children throughout the State of Missouri. Our staff continues traveling statewide to teach others about our Outreach Programs and tell the stories of our clients, in an effort to educate our Fraternity. We are proud of our Outreach Programs and how they have taken the lead nation-wide. The Masonic Home of Missouri has been invited to present webinars and programs nationally, and our website traffic reflects just how widely known the State of Missouri is in the Masonic Home community. Most of us know the history of the Masonic Home, which will be celebrating its 125th anniversary next year and we we continue to use conventional and new methods to teach others about our Outreach Programs. We use Facebook, Twitter, our Website, brochures, mailings, emails, programs, webinars and this magazine to teach. Throughout this edition, you will find articles dedicated to our Masonic Family, including helpful hints, program information, warnings about scams and how you can continue to help us teach others. Help us educate others by becoming involved in our Ladies Luncheons & Teas events. Schedule one today and help everyone learn about the Outreach Programs. Fraternally Yours,

Keith Neese Executive Director Masonic Home of Missouri Spring2013.indd 2

5/13/2013 2:07:52 PM

Contents

Ladies Luncheons & Teas

Educating All about our Outreach Programs

Page 4

Page 12

Vaccinations Can Make a Difference

Are you up-to-date on your shots?

Hello, My Name is....

Whatâ€™s in a Name....and does it really matter?

12 14

Veterans Benefits

The Second in a Series on Military Benefits

Page 14

Avoiding the trap of Predatory Loans

Are you aware of this common traps?

10 Questions to Ask

How to choose your Home Care Agency

Page 18

Page 20

Spotlight on Outreach Programs

How our Widows Program works

Financial Counseling Program

Do you have a budget?

Page 22

Spring2013.indd 3

Page 24

5/13/2013 2:07:56 PM

Update on Ladies Luncheons & Teas During the Masonic Home Representatives’ luncheon last September, staff introduced a new way of reaching out to the Lodge members, wives, widows and Chapters of the Order of the Eastern Star. Replacing the “old” Home presentations was the idea to hold Ladies Luncheons & Teas, with the area Lodge sponsoring the event and Staff from the Masonic Home of Missouri presenting the program. The Masonic Home of Missouri offers eight (8) distinct Outreach Programs that can provide support to the Masonic Fraternity. The Home’s presentation covers each of the programs and how to refer someone or yourself. An information video has also been given to all Masonic Home Representatives who attended our luncheon at Annual Communication or who have requested one be mailed to them. Since November, Staff has visited with eleven (11) Lodges and enjoyed meeting over 250 Masons, wives, widows, children and OES members. Each Lodge has presented a new way of holding the meetings, including several Sweetheart Dinners, District meetings, Open meetings, and actual teas. Several of the Lodges who hosted a presentation are featured in this magazine and we encourage you to participate in this wonderful educational tool about the Masonic Home of Missouri’s Outreach Programs. page 4 Spring2013.indd 4

Missouri Outreach 5/13/2013 2:07:57 PM

Branson Lodge No. 587

Rising Sun Lodge No. 13

The Masonic Home presented a very successful program for widows and other members of the Masonic Fraternity at an event hosted by the Branson Masonic Lodge for the 43rd Masonic District. There were 5 widows and 40 other members of the fraternity present and all lodges were represented except two in the District.

I was honored when the Worshipful Master of Rising Sun Lodge No. 13 asked me to be the Masonic Home Representative for this year.

Written by WB Herb Terrill

Rhonda Stone Lightfoot, Membership Relations Coordinator for the Masonic Home, did a wonderful job explaining the programs offered by the Masonic Home. Many of the members learned what the Masonic Home offers and commented that they enjoyed the presentation greatly. Everyone enjoyed some great entertainment by LeRoy New and Kenny Goodman. Many enjoyed dancing along with the music, great food and wonderful fellowship. The Rainbow Girls did a wonderful job waiting on the tables, assisting the widows and working in the kitchen. We would all like to give them a BIG THANK YOU. The Rainbow Girls also gave out a petition and the Eastern Star had the pleasure of giving out two petitions. The food was great and the luncheon committee would like to thank everyone in the 43rd Masonic District that brought a covered dish or dessert. Special appreciation goes to the Branson Lodge for furnishing the ham and meat loaf.

Written by WB Joseph Russell

My goal for the year has been to reconnect with the Lodge ladies and widows and to let them know they are not forgotten and that, as a Masonic family, we at Rising Sun Lodge DO appreciate the giving of their time and their husbands time (past and present). This past Christmas, I started receiving letters and phone calls from our widows thanking Rising Sun for the cards. I wanted a way of showing our members and everyone else that visited our Lodge that our widows are important to us and are grateful us for thinking of them. I also wanted to be able to keep everyone up to date on upcoming Masonic Home events, so (with the permission of the Lodge) I purchased and hung up a cork/white board and put it up in our dining area. I soon filled the cork half with all of the thank you letters.

Bulletin Board with information about Masonic Home events that Rising Sun Lodge No. 13 has adopted to inform members

I also take the time to talk to our ladies and widows throughout the year at dinners, meetings, events, or phone calls to say hello, making sure everything is alright, and never hesitate to visit with any of them, if needed or requested. Attendees for the 43rd Masonic District Dinner sponsored by the Branson Masonic Lodge No. 587 on February 23, 2013.

Spring Issue 2013 Spring2013.indd 5

Another way I keep in touch with our ladies and widows throughout the year is to send cards for Motherâ€™s Day and Christmas along with a little note of encouragement. At Christmas, I also send the widows a gift card. This is a BIG hit! page 5 5/13/2013 2:07:57 PM

Branson Lodge No. 587 Written by WB Herb Terrill

Jackson Lodge No. 82, Marceline Lodge No. 481 and Brookfield Lodge No. 86 Written by Bro. John Balman On March 16, 2013, Jackson Lodge No. 82, along with Marceline Lodge No. 481 and Brookfield Lodge No. 86 sponsored a Masonic Home of Missouri program. The event which was held at the Marceline Lodge was attended by 15 people including Lodge members, wives, widows and members of the Order of the Eastern Star Florence Chapter No. 124. WB John Carver greeted the guests and PGM Gail Turner offered a prayer. The attendees enjoyed soup, salad and desserts prepared by the members of the Lodges, which was welcome as the day was slightly brisk. Rhonda Stone Lightfoot, Membership Relations Coordinator for the Masonic Home of Missouri gave the program and answered questions regarding the Outreach Programs. Several members of the Lodges and Chapter were interested in the Creating-A-Partnership Programs and will be investigating how this matching funds program can further aid children in their communities. Many of the attendees felt that the program was informative and that they learned more about what the Programs offer and how to refer someone to receive assistance. Jackson Lodge No. 82 is active in their community and with their widows. The Lodge holds an annual dinner to honor our 50-year Masonic Members and remembers our Masonic Widows with a poinsetta at Christmas. The Lodge also participates in the Creating-A-Partnership Program with the Masonic page 6 Spring2013.indd 6

Home and the local school district. Brookfield Lodge No. 86 recognizes their Masonic Widows with fruit baskets at Christmas, assists with Meals on Wheels for Senior Citizens, and sponsors a Scholarship Fund for a Senior of Brookfield High School. Florence Chapter No 124 of the Order of the Eastern Star helps support the food pantry, youth projects, and has a card ministry. Marceline Lodge No. 481 participates in youth projects and supporting the community. The Masonic Home of Missouri would like to thank Brother John Balman for his invitation to speak at this event and to Marceline Lodge for hosting the luncheon.

Members of Jackson Lodge 82, Marceline Lodge No. 481, Brookfield Lodge No. 86 and Florence Chapter No. 124 of the Order of the Eastern Star who helped arrange the program.

Polar Star - Rose Hill Lodge No. 79 Written by WB Randy Davis

Polar Star â€“ Rose Hill Lodge No. 79 A.F & A.M. held its Ladies Tea on March 9, 2013. It was hosted by Maureen Davis, who was assisted by Dawn Standley and Jessica Woolbright. Polar Star â€“ Rose Hill Lodge opened this event to all ladies, widows, daughters, grand-daughters and other women related to the members. We had a total of about 24 women at the Ladies Tea. At the tea, we had about 15 varieties of tea to choose from and many very tasty treats from Clayton Bakery & Pastries. We felt it important that these women, who were associated to the lodge through their men, should have an idea of what the Masonic Home is and does for those in the Masonic Community and were happy to have Rhonda Stone Lightfoot on hand to present to us. Although many of the women had a good idea of the Masonic Home programs, many did not know the extent of the programs that were offered. Missouri Outreach 5/13/2013 2:07:57 PM

Also at the Ladies Tea, Job’s Daughters International Bethel #4 had two of its members, Jill Yancey and Michaela Davis, speak to the Ladies about the importance of supporting the Masonic girls youth group. All Ladies were asked to speak to their daughters and granddaughters about coming to visit a future meeting of Bethel #4. Plans are already underway to have another Ladies Tea next year.

Ladies enjoying tea and treats during the Polar Star - Rose Hill Lodge No. 79 Ladies Tea on March 9, 2013

We appreciate the Masonic Home Representatives and members of the Lodges who assisted in arranging for all to be invited to learn about the Outreach Programs. If your Lodge is interested in sponsoring a program, please contact Rhonda Stone Lightfoot at (800) 4349804 or email at rlightfoot@mohome.org to schedule a date and time. The Masonic Home of Missouri will provide a staffperson to come and speak about the Outreach Programs and answer questions regarding the programs.

For a complete list of our program schedules, please visit our website at

Breaking down the numbers

Sympathy cards were sent in January, February and March of 2013 to Masonic Widows/ Widowers, Order of the Eastern Star members, and family in honor of those who passed away.

4,512

Masonic Widows are in the Masonic Home of Missouri database. Widows receive a pin and a card with their husband’s Masonic service. They also receive the Missouri Outreach magazine three times a year.

Widows received their pin and spouse’s membership card in March of 2013.

50%

FY12 Financial Assistance through our Long-& ShortTerm Outreach Programs has been received by Widows, with 8% of that amount being Widows who are also members of the Order of the Eastern Star.

www.mohome.org/Masonic-HomeRepresentatives.html Spring Issue 2013 Spring2013.indd 7

page 7 5/13/2013 2:07:59 PM

Vaccinations You Should be Talking to Your Doctor About If the word “vaccination” evokes images of childhood, it may be time to raise the subject with your doctor. It’s not just kid stuff: All adults — including those age 50 and older — need vaccines. Some of the adult vaccine recommendations from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have changed recently. So even if you think you’ve been keeping up with your vaccines, you’ll want to review the CDC’s list of vaccine recommendations.

Influenza vaccine

Who needs it: Everyone over 6 months of age unless you:

How often: Once for Tdap; once every 10 years for Td booster Notes: If you’ve never received a Tdap vaccine, you should be vaccinated once, even if you are over age 65 (this is a change from CDC’s prior guidance). Due to a rise in pertussis, or whooping cough, cases in the United States, the Tdap vaccine is especially crucial for people who have close contact with infants younger than 12 months of age — including parents, grandparents, and child-care providers. If you have received Tdap in the past, you should get a Td booster every 10 years.

• Have had a severe reaction to the flu shot in the past • Are allergic to eggs • Have or have had Guillain-Barre syndrome • Have a fever. If you do, wait until you are no longer sick to get the vaccine.

Talk to your doctor before getting the vaccine if you:

How often: Annually

Herpes zoster (shingles) vaccine.

Notes: Flu kills around 36,000 people every year in the United States, and older Americans are among the most vulnerable groups. Because each year’s vaccine is formulated to combat that season’s influenza strains, you should get a dose every year. Flu shots are given during the September-to-March flu season. If you are 50 or older, don’t get the nasal spray form of the vaccine, which did not prove effective in clinical trials in people over age 49.

Td (tetanus, diphtheria) and Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) vaccines Who needs it: Everyone page 8 Spring2013.indd 8

• Have epilepsy or other nervous system problems • Had severe swelling or pain after a prior dose of Tdap/Td vaccine • Have or have had Guillain-Barre syndrome Who needs it: Everyone over age 60 How often: Once

Notes: Zoster vaccine is recommended for everyone over age 60, regardless of whether you’ve had a prior episode of shingles — a painful, blistering skin rash, caused by the varicella-zoster virus — which can be especially painful in older adults. Some experts recommend getting the vaccine only if you’ve had a prior episode of chicken pox. But the CDC recommends that everyone over 60 get vaccinated because more than 99 percent of Americans over age 40 have had chicken pox, even if they don’t recall getting the disease. Also, the older patients are, the Missouri Outreach 5/13/2013 2:08:00 PM

more severe their cases of shingles can be. Do not get this vaccine if you: • Have ever had a life-threatening or severe allergic reaction to gelatin, the antibiotic neomycin, or any other component of shingles vaccine • Have a weakened immune system because of: • HIV/AIDS or another disease that affects the immune system. • Treatment with drugs that affect the immune system, such as steroids • Cancer treatment such as radiation or chemotherapy • A history of cancer affecting the bone marrow or lymphatic system, such as leukemia or lymphoma; •Are or might be pregnant

MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine

Who needs it: Adults born after 1956 that have not been immunized or are unsure of their immunization status. People born before 1957 — the year the first measles vaccine began to be tested — generally are considered immune to measles and mumps because they are likely to have had one of the diseases as a child. If you don’t know your immunization status, get a booster shot. How often: Once Notes: You should ask your doctor before getting this vaccine if you: • Have ever had a life-threatening allergic reaction to gelatin, the antibiotic neomycin, or to a previous dose of MMR vaccine • Are moderately or severely ill at the time the shot is scheduled • Are or might be pregnant. Also, women should avoid getting pregnant for four weeks after getting MMR vaccine. • Have HIV/AIDS or another disease that affects the immune system • Are being treated with drugs that affect the immune system, such as steroids • Have any kind of cancer Spring Issue 2013 Spring2013.indd 9

• Are undergoing cancer treatment with x-rays or drugs • Have ever had a low platelet count (a blood disorder) • Have recently had a transfusion or were given other blood products

Hepatitis A vaccine

Who needs it: Adults age 50 and older that engage in certain behaviors — including same-sex male intercourse and illicit injectable drug use — that are considered high-risk behaviors for contracting hepatitis A. Because the disease can also spread through close personal contact, the shot is also recommended for people who have chronic liver disease, have close contact with a hepatitis A-infected individual or who travel to areas with a high incidence of hepatitis A. How often: Once, but given in two doses over six to 18 months Notes: If you or anyone close to you is adopting a child from a country with a high rate of hepatitis A, you should get the vaccine.

Hepatitis B vaccine.

Who needs it: Adults 50 and older who are at risk for contracting hepatitis B. You are at risk if you: • Have sex with partners who are infected with hepatitis B • Are a man who has sex with other men • Have more than one sex partner • Inject street drugs • Have chronic liver or kidney disease • Are under age 60 and have diabetes • Have a job that exposes you to human blood or other body fluids • Live with people who have contact with people infected with hepatitis B • Live or work in institutions for the developmentally disabled • Are on kidney dialysis • Travel to countries where hepatitis B is common • Have HIV infection How often: Adults getting hepatitis B vaccine should get 3 doses — with the second dose given 4 weeks page 9 5/13/2013 2:08:00 PM

after the first and the third dose 5 months after the second. Notes: Get a booster if you are unsure of your immunization status.

Pneumococcal vaccine (pneumonia)

Do not get the vaccine if you:

Notes: You should talk to your doctor about getting this vaccine if you are a smoker or have serious health problems, including chronic lung or heart disease, diabetes, asthma, leukemia, lymphoma or alcoholism. If you work around chronically ill people — for example, in a hospital or nursing home — you should get the vaccine even if you are healthy.

• Have a life-threatening allergy to yeast, or to any other component of the vaccine • Have had a life-threatening allergic reaction to a previous dose of hepatitis B vaccine • Are moderately or severely ill when a dose of vaccine is scheduled

Meningococcal vaccine

Who needs it: Adults 50 and older who were never vaccinated. You are at increased risk for meningitis if you: • Are a college freshman living in a dormitory • Work in a laboratory in which you are routinely exposed to meningococcal bacteria • Are a U.S. military recruit • Are traveling to, or living in, a part of the world where meningococcal disease is common, such as parts of Africa • Have a damaged spleen, or your spleen has been removed • Have persistent complement component deficiency (an immune system disorder) • Have or may have been exposed to meningitis during an outbreak How often: Once Notes: If you are age 50-55 and have never been vaccinated, you should receive the meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV4), which is effective for life. People over age 55 should receive the polysaccharide vaccine (MPSV4), which provides three to five years of immunity; this is the only meningococcal vaccine licensed for people over age 55. Talk to your doctor about whether you should get this vaccine if you travel to countries with high incidence of hepatitis B; have had your spleen removed; or have certain blood deficiencies.

Who needs it: Everyone age 65 and older, and people 50 and over with certain risk factors. How often: Once

Taking an active role in your health care can help you get the best care possible from your doctor. Be sure to tell your doctor about any current and past health care issues or concerns. It’s important to share any information you can, even if you’re embarrassed. Don’t be afraid to speak up. It’s important for you to let your doctor know if you don’t understand something. If you don’t ask questions, your doctor will think you understand everything he or she has told you. Take information home with you to read and help you understand what the doctor is saying. Your doctor’s office can be a good source of accurate information. Make sure to follow up with your doctor and follow any instructions your doctor gave you during the appoinment, like taking medicine, scheduling a test or making a follow up appointment. Getting preventative care now can make a difference in the future. If you receive a vaccination at a pharmacy or at a health care event in your community, make sure to request paperwork from them and give it to your physician’s office, to include in your file. Being healthy starts with you, staying healthy ends with you. Portions of this article are excerpted from the AARP website @ www.aarp.org. The Masonic Home of Missouri is not a healthoriented organization but rather supplies helpful healthy tips for our readers. All questions regarding vaccinations and individual reactions to them should be directed to appropriate health care physicians.

Health is not valued until sickness comes. ~Thomas Fuller page 10 Spring2013.indd 10

Missouri Outreach 5/13/2013 2:08:00 PM

H E L LO my name is

Masonic Home of MISSOURI

As we travel the State, we are sometimes asked “why do you continue to call yourself the Masonic Home of Missouri, when you do not have a Home?” One way to answer that question is to think about what a “Home” is. When you look up the meaning of the word “Home” in the Webster’s Dictionary, it has several meanings, including “residence, the place where a person, family, or household lives:, “headquarters or main place of operations of an organization”, “a safe place, a place where a person can live in security”, “a place of assistance where someone can find care or assistance“. The Outreach Programs are all of those definitions; we help people in their residences, we have a headquarters or place of operation and we can assist people to live in a safe, secure place. It might not be in the original ‘brick and mortar’ variety, but it allows people to live in their chosen brick and mortar residence or community. Have you ever sold your home? Was it a home or a house when you sold it? When you purchased your new house, did it become a house or a home to you

and your family? The new ‘house’ became a ‘home’ where you could reside in safety, secure and where you could continue to make memories that encompass your family. Our Outreach Programs became a new home for our Masonic Family to continue to receive services when our ‘old’ house was sold. The Masonic Home of Missouri was founded in 1889 and we will be celebrating the 125th Anniversary of this Masonic charity next year. While it is true that we no longer have a ‘brick and mortar’ building, we still assist Masonic brethren in facilities AND in their own homes throughout the State of Missouri through our Outreach Programs. The Board of Directors continues to consider the many legal and financial issues associated with changing our charity’s name. At this time, we continue to remain “The Masonic Home of Missouri” and assist our Masonic Fraternity in their chosen place of residence, whether a house or assisted care facility. As the Masonic Home of Missouri’s motto states...“We are where you are.”

If you have an article on how your Lodge is utilizing our Outreach Programs and would be interested in submission to the Summer edition of the Missouri Outreach magazine, please contact Rhonda Stone Lightfoot at 800-434-9804 by May 15, 2013. All photos will have to have a photo release form accompany them. Photo release forms can be downloaded from our website at www.mohome.com/form.html 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

Spring Issue 2013 Spring2013.indd 11

page 11 5/13/2013 2:08:00 PM

Retiree Checklist:

What Survivors Should Know

Being prepared for the unforeseen is always hard to accomplish but when it comes to your loved ones, having a plan for the future and reviewing that plan is a must. Whether you are currently in the military, a retired veteran or a civilian, you should have an accounting of your financial affairs in a secure place that your loved ones can access. The following checklist should be reviewed by military retirees and their beneficiaries on an annual basis. This checklist is designed to equip you and your loved ones with knowledge and information that may prove helpful. While it may be impossible to truly prepare for the overwhelming emotions and dilemmas that arise with the loss of a loved one, it does help when most of the below issues have been put into place. • Create a military file that includes your retirement orders, separation papers, medical records, DD214s, etc. Make sure your spouse knows the location and telephone number of the nearest military installation. • Create a military retired pay file that includes the pertinent information for the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS). This file should also include the number of any VA claim still pending and the address of the VA office being used; a list of deductions currently being made from benefits; and the name, relationship and address of the person you have made the page 12 Spring2013.indd 12

beneficiary of any unpaid retired pay at the time of death. Make sure you have the address and phone number for the Defense Financial and Accounting Service (DFAS) with this file. Defense Finance and Accounting Service U. S. Military Retirement Pay P.O. Box 7130 London, KY 40742-7130 (800) 321-1080 Option #3 (for deceased members)

• Create an annuities file. This file should have information about the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan (RCSBP) or the Retired Serviceman’s Family Protection Plan (RSFPP), Civil Service annuity, etc. Additional information regarding SBP annuity claims can be obtained from the DFASCleveland office at 1-800-321-1080. • Create a personal document file that has copies of marriage certificates, divorce decrees, adoptions and naturalization papers. • Create an income tax file. Include copies of your state and federal income tax returns. Missouri Outreach 5/13/2013 2:08:03 PM

• Create a property tax file. Include copies of tax bills, deeds and any other related information.

Organizations that should be notified in the event of a retiree’s death include:

• Create an insurance policy file. Include life, property, accident, liability and hospitalization policies.

Defense Finance and Accounting Service London, KY (800) 321-1080 Social Security Administration (800) 772-1213

• In a secure location, maintain a list of all bank accounts (joint or individual). Include the location of all deposit boxes, savings bonds, stocks, bonds and any securities owned. • In a secure location, maintain a list of all charge accounts and credit cards. Include account numbers and mailing addresses. • Maintain a list of all associations and organizations of which you are a member. Some of them could be helpful to your spouse. • Maintain a list of all friends and business associates who may be helpful. Include name, address and phone number. • Spend time with your spouse discussing your plans with respect to the type and place of your funeral service. You should decide which cemetery, whether ground burial, or cremation, etc. If your spouse knows your desires, it will resolve some of the questions that might arise at a later date. • Visit a local funeral home and pre-arrange your services. Many states will allow you to pre-pay for services. • Investigate the decisions that you and your family have agreed upon. Many states have specific laws and guidelines regulating cremation and burials at sea. Some states require a letter of authority signed by the deceased in order to authorize a cremation. Know the laws in your specific area and how they may affect your decisions. Information regarding Burials at Sea can be obtained by phoning the Office of Medical and Dental Affairs-Mortuary Affairs Division at (888) 647-6676 (option 4). • Once your decisions have been made and you are comfortable with them, have a will drawn up outlining all your wishes. • Insure that your will and all other official documents are maintained in a secure location known by your loved ones. This includes all of your DD214s or Retirement Orders. When all the decision-making and documenting is completed, sit back and continue to enjoy life, knowing that you have prepared your loved ones and that they will be able to find the information that they need. Spring Issue 2013 Spring2013.indd 13

Department of Veterans Affairs (800) 827-1000 Office of Personnel Management (OPM) (724) 794-8690 Any previous employers that provide pension or benefits. *This is the second of several articles in a series dedicated to Missouri Masons who are also Veterans. All material is this article was excerpted from an article produced by the U. S. Navy entitled “Retiree Checklist: What survivors should know”. Published via the Navy Personnel Command Website located at http://www.public.navy.mil. The Masonic Home of Missouri does not represent nor is affiliated with the U. S. Navy, Missouri Veterans Commission or Veterans Affairs Office. All questions regarding benefits should be directed to the proper authorities.

If You Have Ever Served In The Military... Have You...

• Visited with a Veterans Service Office?

Visit with a Veterans Service Office (VSO) to discuss benefits you have earned because of your service. Visit www.mvc.dps.mo.gov or call 1-866-VET-INFO to find a VSO near you or visit your local Veterans Service Organization to speak with a VSO.

• Signed up for VA Health Care? The VA has

highly trained physicians and clinicians that allow the VA to address many specialties. Healthcare benefits for eligible veterans include primary care, speciality care, mental health, prescriptions, prosthetics, etc. Visit www.VA.gov or your VSO for more infomration and how to apply.

• Joined a Veterans Service Organization? There are many reasons to join a Veterans Service Organization. Members of these organizations enjoy the camaraderie of fellow Veterans. Members are also the most informed Veterans, especially when it comes to new benefits and legislation that will impact the Veteran population. To view a listing of members of the Missouri Association of Veterans Organizations (MAVO), visit www.mvc.dps.mo.gov/mavo.asp

page 13 5/13/2013 2:08:03 PM

Predatory Loans and the Tightrope of Despair Written by Carly Dibben, Financial Counseling Caseworker

The struggling American economy has hit many people hard over the past few years. In that time, the Masonic Home of Missouri has encountered a growing number of members who have turned to short term loans with high interest, such as payday loans, check-into-cash, and rent-to-own, as a solution to their financial problems. The majority of these members have found that what they thought would be a solution quickly turns into a whole new set of problems. There is a reason they call these establishments “predatory lenders”. They prey on those in need of cash or goods quickly. They promise to make the lending process easy and painless, and they deliver on that promise, but say nothing about making repayment easy and painless. The Financial Counseling program recently sat down with a couple that fell into the predatory lending trap. It started with them using credit cards to pay for necessities, such as groceries and medications, when funds ran low. While credit cards are not predatory loans per say, they tend to be the gateway into uncontrolled debt. Next the couple needed a new bed, but couldn’t afford to make the purchase out of pocket, so they went to a rent-to-own establishment. At first it appeared that their debt was manageable, that they were able to make ends meet. Then one of them experienced a health crisis that brought a slew of medical bills their way. They took out a payday loan one month to cover utility bills. The next month they took out another payday loan to pay on the original payday loan. Then they had to miss a payment on the rent-to-own loan which cost them heavily in fees and interest. And so on and so on. After all was said and done, they were paying more each month on debt to page 14 Spring2013.indd 14

pay off other debt then they were on their rent, utilities, and other basic necessities. They could no longer pay their creditors. What had promised to be an easy way out of their financial problems had cost them thousands of dollars in fees and interest. Many people find it hard to identify a predatory lender. There are the obvious signs, such as the businesses that use terms like “payday loans”, “rent to own”, or “check-into-cash” in their advertising. However, even reputable banks are now offering similar loans. These loans are often promoted as Account Advances. An excellent example of this is found in the article “Beware the Predatory-Lending Trap”. The article reports one bank charges $2.00 interest per $20.00 borrowed on a 10 day loan against a customers account. A $400.00 loan would cost that customer $40.00 in interest, or 365% Annual Percentage Rate (APR). To put this into perspective, credit card companies are currently charging an APR between 14.95% and 23.64% for new credit, depending on the card holders credit score.* As with all other predatory loans, this Account Advance carries a large late payment fee of $35.00. It’s getting very difficult to pick out the money sharks swimming in the water. Here are a few tips to determine the loans to stay away from: • Think twice about trusting a lender who tells you the cost of a loan in dollar value instead of a percentage rate. Often times they will tell you it will only cost you $56.00 for a two week loan of $200.00. This sounds like a good deal, but in actuality you will be paying 730% in interest.** Missouri Outreach 5/13/2013 2:08:04 PM

• Be leery of lenders who are willing to lend you more money than you can afford to borrow. Promises of refinancing later only means additional fees and interest for you, and more money for them. • A huge red flag should go up for you if your lender asks you to sign blank documents or if they do not encourage you to read all documents thoroughly before signing. A comment like “it’s just a standard form, nothing to worry about” should shout at you that this is something to worry about.

The Fair Debt Collections Practices Act, which is enforced by the Federal Trade Commission, regulates how creditors and debt collectors attempt to collect on a debt. Here are a few things they are cannot do in an attempt to collect payment: • They cannot contact you at inconvenient times or places unless you agree to it. No collector should call you before 8:00am for after 9:00pm or at work if you have told them, either orally or in writing, that you cannot receive calls there. Also, they cannot contact you by postcard.

• Keep an eye out for loans with excessive fees and penalties, penalties for early repayment, unnecessary insurance, or statements that say the borrower cannot take any legal action against the lender.

• Debt collectors are permitted to contact third parties in order to learn your address, home phone number, and your place of employment, but they are not permitted to discuss your debt with anyone other than you, your spouse, or your attorney.

Predatory lenders always make it easy to borrow money, but never make it easy to pay it back. Their solution to any person not being able to pay off a debt on time is always an offer for another loan. There are many ways to solve money troubles, placing trust in a predatory lender is not one of them. Many people find that their financial issue stem from poor money management and budgeting. For those with this problem, they can seek out assistance for free from the Masonic Home of Missouri through the Financial Counseling Program. This program offers financial education and help in budgeting, prioritizing expenses and debt, and setting financial goals. The Social Services and Masonic Family Cares programs can also help locate resources in a person’s community, such as food banks, utility relief programs, and local lodges and chapters who might be able to lend a hand. Also, depending on member qualification and circumstances of the financial hardship, the Outreach Program and Children’s Outreach Program might be able to help monetarily. If you know of a brother or sister considering one of these short term high interest loans to pay utilities or make a purchase, please encourage them to contact the Masonic Home. A predatory lender should never be considered a solution, not even as a last resort.

• Debt collectors cannot harass you in the following ways: threats of violence, the threat of publishing a list of people who refuse to pay their debts, use obscene or profane language, or make repeated calls in a short period of time to annoy the borrower.

Beware the Predatory-Lending Trap by Marcia Passos Duffy, bankrate. com http://money.msn.com/debt-management/beware-the-predatorylending-trap-bankrate.aspx *CreditCards.com Weekly Credit Card Rate Report: Credit card interest rates dip to 14.95 percent. February 20, 2013. http://money.msn.com/ business-news/article.aspx?feed=PR&Date=20130220&ID=16144976& topic=TOPIC_ECONOMIC_INDICATORS&isub=3 **Example taken from Guide to Surviving Debt 2010 edition. National Consumer Law Center. Information for the article in the inset box was collected from the Federal Trade Commission Consumer Information - http://www.consumer.ftc. gov/articles/0149-debt-collection.

Spring Issue 2013 Spring2013.indd 15

• They are not permitted to make false statements or lie. For example, they cannot claim to be an attorney or government representative, claim that you have committed a crime, falsely represent they work for a credit reporting company, misrepresent the amount you owe, indicate papers they send you are legal forms if they are not, indicate that papers they send you are not legal forms if they are, or place false information about you on your credit report. • It is illegal for debt collectors to collect any interest, fee or other charge on top of the amount you owe unless the contract that created the debt, or state law, allows the charge. • They cannot deposit post-dated checks early. • Creditors cannot garnish federal benefits/income. These include Social Security Benefits, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Benefits, Veterans’ Benefits, Civil Service/Federal Retirement/Disability Benefits, service members’ pay, military annuities or survivor benefits, student assistance, Railroad Retirement Benefits, etc. However, these benefits can be garnished by the government under certain circumstances, such as delinquent taxes, alimony, child support, or student loans. If a creditor or debt collector violates any of these rules you can contact the Missouri Attorney General’s office (www.ago.mo.gov) or the Federal Trade Commission (www.ftc.gov) for assistance. The entire Fair Debt Collections Act can be found on the internet at www. ftc.gov/os/statutes/fdcpa/fdcpact.shtm. page 15 5/13/2013 2:08:04 PM

10 Things to

Ask Before Hiring a Home Care Agency

Today’s seniors have more options available to them then ever before. One option more and more seniors are turning to when their physical capabilities diminish or while they recover from a short-term disability is to be treated in the comfort of their own homes by a personal nurses aide or companion. Home care is considered by many to be one of the most desirable options because it allows seniors to maintain their independence while remaining in the one place where they feel most comfortable. However, as in choosing any type of long-term care, there are many pitfalls to watch out for when hiring a homecare worker to care for yourself or a loved one. In any given city, a quick look through the Yellow Pages may reveal dozens of competing companies offering what appear on the surface to be the same services. It’s up to you to investigate the differences and find the one company that best suits your needs. To help with this task, we’ve provided the following checklist of questions to ask each home care agency during the initial phone call.

How long has your company been in business?

There are a lot of new companies entering the marketplace, many of which have little experience or expertise in the special challenges of running a successful home care company. The office staff cannot be relied upon as much as those at well-established companies, because they do not have extensive records of caregiver’s past performance. This puts them at a distinct disadvantage and they often attract those providers who can’t get a job at a reputable agency. page 16

Spring2013.indd 16

Are your workers bonded and insured?

Few people like to think about accidents or possible problems at the outset of retaining help, but the fact is lots of people get into accidents every day, such as car accidents, sprained backs, twisted ankles, etc. Also, from time to time, important things in a client’s home can be damaged or disappear through an individual’s negligence or dishonesty. The company you want to work with must have extensive insurance, including Professional and General Liability, Non-Owned Auto, a Dishonesty Bond, and Worker’s Compensation policies. Believe it or not there are some companies that have minimal insurance coverage and others who have none at all.

How extensive are your criminal and background checks?

As you know, there are lots of unscrupulous people out and about looking for work. You don’t want them in your home or in the home of someone you love or care about. Therefore you must do business only with companies that provide a criminal background check of each person they dispatch. Because unsavory characters drift around from place to place, it’s important that they not only run a check on the last place their candidate worked but also on all the places they’ve lived for at least the last five years. Also ask them if they can provide you with written reference check reports.

Does your company have a Licensed Vocational Nurse or RN on staff?

Most reputable agencies have a licensed nurse on staff to assure that proper protocol is being followed in the Missouri Outreach 5/13/2013 2:08:05 PM

care of a client. A trained nurse can help a caregiver identify safety hazards, recognize symptoms, observe special diets, familiarize them with infection control procedures and universal precautions, establish hygiene standards, and more. In most cases, home care aide agencies that have a licensed nurse on staff are going the extra mile to provide quality assurance to the services their caregivers provide.

How do you select your employees?

Many agencies hire home care aides that have little experience and even less credentials—not exactly the type of person you want caring for you or your loved one. Reputable agencies, however, have minimum requirements for years of experience and levels of certification. The best agencies will even take into consideration such factors as demeanor and professionalism, weeding out the unacceptable workers so you don’t have to. Make sure you choose an agency that sets high standards in its hiring policies.

Can you send me information describing your services and fees?

This may seem like a basic question, but a company that has not spent the time developing important informational materials such as these probably haven’t done a lot of other important tasks either. Not only will these materials help you compare their services to those of other agencies, but they may also provide useful details that you hadn’t thought of earlier. More than likely, an agency that sends you detailed, carefully considered materials for your review has also gone the extra mile in other aspects of its business.

What is the company’s replacement policy or guarantee?

If you want to avoid getting a lemon, ask about the company’s replacement or guarantee policy. In most cases, a good agency will give you as many replacements as needed whenever needed without limitation. For those people wanting a caregiver on a referral basis, wherein you handle the payroll and insurance obligations, you should get at least three months to see if the individual will be suitable to you. Of course, the more the better, but certainly no less than three months.

Spring Issue 2013 Spring2013.indd 17

What are your financial procedures? Are your rates negotiable?

Most agencies have a lot of fixed costs to incorporate into their quoted rates. However, they also know that not all clients have the same ability to pay. Some agencies may be prepared to make a deal. If you’re flexible about the age, number of years of experience of the caregiver, or English speaking abilities, perhaps you can get reduced rates. Most agencies come in contact with eager, honest and hardworking people who are anxious to gain experience and English skills. So if money is an issue, this approach may work for you. Even if you choose not to negotiate, ask to see written statements explaining all of the agency’s costs and payment plan options. This will clear up any discrepancies before they occur.

Would you mind providing me with references?

It pays to find out if the Agency’s clients are satisfied with the services they’re getting. Sometimes old references don’t reflect current management conditions, so it’s best to ask for testimonials from their more recent jobs. Of course, you want to be able to talk with clients who have had a long history with the agency so that you can get a good sense for how they do business and what you might expect from them.

Can we set up a time to meet to discuss the details of my care needs?

It’s always a good idea to meet the Agency’s principal(s) or representative(s) and to see their setting if possible. It’s also good to have them come over to your place so that you can meet them at your convenience. Home care can get expensive, so you want to be sure that the people you’ll be dealing with can be relied upon to give you the best service possible. Also, the advantage of going to their office is that you can make some assessments about them that you can’t just by talking on the phone. Are they a boiler room operation or are they organized and corporate? Are they a small company or a large one? If they can’t answer these questions to your satisfaction, move on to the next agency until you find one that can. Make sure that your loved one or yourself is taken care of with dignity and respect. Compiled from AARP.org, USAA.org, and State of Missouri Division of Family Services (dss.mo.gov) website articles. Re-printed with permission.

page 17 5/13/2013 2:08:06 PM

Know Your Part D Benefits How the Affordable Care Act Impacts Prescription Drug Expenses

The year is starting anew, and for many Medicare recipients, understanding the Affordable Care Act may be an important part of planning for the new year’s health care expenses. While the legislation focuses on prevention - adding benefits for Medicare recipients like coverage for annual wellness exams and some preventative services - it also makes changes to the prescription drug benefit. With all these changes, the question on most members’ minds is, “How does this impact me - and my wallet?” If you have Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage), your plan likely includes a “donut hole,” or a coverage gap. Once you and your plan have paid the established limit for covered medication (for 2013, the limit is $2,970.00), you have to pay all additional costs out of your own pocket. After you’ve reached your out-ofpocket maximum, known as the “catastrophic” coverage threshold (for 2013, the number is $4,750.00), the plan kicks in again and helps pay for prescription drugs. Starting in 2011, once Medicare Part D participants reached the donut hole, an automatic 50 percent discount was given on all page 18 Spring2013.indd 18

brand-name drugs, along with a 7 percent discount on all generic brands. In 2013, that discount has increased to 52.5 percent for brandnames and 21 percent for generics. Each year, the savings will continue to increase. In 2020, the donut hole will close, and all Medicare recipients enrolled in Part D will recieve a 75 percent discount on both brand-names and generics. If you participate in Medicare Part D, here are some things to remember: • You will only receive discounts on prescription drugs that participate in the Medicare Coverage Gap Discount Program.

prescriptions and you purchase a $100.00 brand-name drug, the 2013 discount of 52.5 percent will be applied to the remaining $40.00, making the amount you owe $19.00. • If you’re taking part in Extra Help - a program that helps people with limited incomes cover the cost of prescription drug plan costs - you do not qualify for these discounts. • You will receive an Explanation of Benefits notice in the mail every time you use your prescription drug coverage. Read it carefully to make sure you’re getting the discounts you’re entitled to; if not, you can appeal. • Even though you’re only paying 47.5 percent on brand-name drugs in 2013, the entire drug cost goes toward the total you need to qualify for catastrophic coverage.

• If you have a Part D plan that already includes coverage in the donut hole, the new savings will be applied to the total amount remaining after your current coverage is applied. For example, if your supplemental plan covers 60 percent of the cost of brand-name

Visit medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633Article contains exerpts from Healthy Living Made Simple (January/February 2013 issue) produced by Sam’s Club. Re-printed with permission. The Masonic Home of Missouri does not warrent the information contained within the article and all questions regarding eligibility or current status should be directed to Medicare or appropriate persons.

Missouri Outreach 5/13/2013 2:08:07 PM

Spotlight on The Widows Program One of the Masonic Home of Missouri’s nonfinancial Outreach Programs is the Widows Program. Honoring our late Missouri Master Masons’ spouses is a very important part of taking care of our Masonic family. Each year, the Masonic Home sends out condolence cards to families when a Missouri Mason passes away. In Fiscal Year 2012, the Masonic Home sent out 569 condolence cars to grieving families. The surviving female spouse also receives a Widows Pin and a card with her deceased husband’s Masonic information. Should she ever need assistance through the Financial Assistance Programs, this card contains all the Masonic information a caseworker would need to verify membership requirements. The Masonic Home wanted to further connect the Masonic Widows to the Home and the Lodge, so the Home began to host the Widows Luncheons to present a pin to the widows. These were so successful that the Home began to expand the luncheons, making them more inclusive of all Masonic ladies. The Masonic Home will use the Luncheons and Teas to communicate to the wives, widows, and Order of the Eastern Star ladies about the wonderful programs the Home offers. The Masonic Home of Missouri also sends Christmas cards

Spring Issue 2013 Spring2013.indd 19

each year to the ladies, along with mailing the Missouri Outreach magazine. The Masonic Home shares the list of widows with Lodges. This list provides an opportunity for the Masonic Home Representative to stay in touch with his Lodge’s Masonic widows and honor their late husband’s Masonic legacy. The list is mailed every year around mid-November and is updated continually. Widows who are in need of non-financial assistance, such as removal/storage of window air conditioning units, installation of hand rails, etc., might be able to receive assistance through the Home’s Masonic Family Cares Program which facilitates connections between Lodges, Chapters and youth organizations and the Masonic brothers and sisters in their communities.

(right) Photo of the Masonic Home of Missouri’s Widows Pin.

If you know of a widow who is in need of assistance or needs to be added to the Widow’s database, please contact Chantana Irwin at 800-434-9804 or cirwin@ mohome.org.

page 19 5/13/2013 2:08:11 PM

Social Security Changes for

he Social Security Administration has implemented a variety of new rules and features for 2013. The two-year payroll tax cut has officially ended, and paper Social Security checks will soon cease to be printed. A growing number of Social Security services will also be online this year. Here is a look at some of the recent Social Security changes that go into effect this year: Payroll tax cut ends: The temporary payroll tax cut was allowed to expire at the end of 2012. Workers who paid 4.2% of their income into the Social Security system in 2011 and 2012 have now resumed contributing 6.2% of their earnings. Higher payroll tax cap: The payroll tax cap increased by $3,600, from $110,100 in 2012 to $113,700 in 2013. Workers who earn more than this threshold do not need to pay Social Security taxes on that income. More online services: A trip to the Social Security office is no longer necessary to start your Social Security payments. In 2012, workers could access their Social Secruity statements online for the first time, including their complete earnings history and expected payments. In early 2013, Social Security added online services including the ability to access a benefit verification letter and payment history. Retirees can also change their address and add or change direct-deposit information online. “The ability to do this online, it will be a real convenience for the people who are required to have these benefit verification letters,” says Social Security Commissioner Michael Astrue. “It is going to allow us to focus on the kind of conversations that we really do need to have face to face.” Reduced Office Hours: Social Security offices are reducing the hours they are open to the public to save money and avoid paying overtime to workers. Locations nationwide have been closing 30 minutes early each day since November 19, 2012, and they began closing to the public at noon every Wednesday since January 2, 2013. page 20

Spring2013.indd 20

2013

Paper checks will end: On March 1, 2013 the Treasury Department stopped mailing paper checks to Social Security recipients. Retirees are required to have the Social Security payment either directly deposited into a bank or credit union account or loaded onto a prepaid Direct Express Debit MasterCard. “If you already have a bank account or credit union account, we encourage you, and it’s our preference that you sign up for direct deposit,” says Walt Henderson, the director of the electronic fund transfer strategy division at the Treasury Department. “The debit card is primarily for unbanked benefit recipients. We don’t want people who already have a bank account to feel that they have to get the debit card”.

Higher earnings limit: People between ages 62 and 66 who work and collect Social Security benefits at the same time might have part or all of their Social Security benefit temporarily withheld. Workers between ages 62 and 65 can earn up to $15,120 in 2013, after which $1 in benefits will be withheld for every $2 of income above the earnings limit. People who turn 66 this year can earn up to $40,080, and then $1 of benefits will be withheld for every $3 above the limit. However, once you turn 66, the earnings limit no longer applies and benefits may be recalculated at age 66 to reflect the withheld benefits and continued earnings. Bigger payments: Social Security beneficiaries began receiving payments that were 1.7% larger in January. The average monthly Social Security benefit in January increased from $1,240 to $1,261 as a result of the costof-living adjustment. Article contains excerpts from an article published by U. S. News & World Report published on February 20, 2013 by Emily Brandon. The Masonic Home of Missouri does not warrent the information contained within the article and all questions regarding SSI benefits should be directed to the proper authority.

Missouri Outreach 5/13/2013 2:08:11 PM

Financial Counseling Program

The Masonic Home of Missouri’s Financial Counseling Program has been in effect for almost a year and has been successfully working with Missouri Master Masons, their wife or widow, and female members of the Order of the Eastern Star. The majority of referrals to this program are made through the Financial Assistance Programs. However, interested Masonic members may contact the Finanical Counselor and request assistance. Carly Dibben, Financial Counseling Caseworker, is an accrediated finanical counselor through the Association for Financial Counseling and Planning Education (AFCPE) organization (www.afcpe. org). A financial counselor guides people through difficult financial situations and provides education for basic financial skills such as budgeting, shortterm financial goals, determination of net worth, and prioritizing debt and income allocations. Unlike a financial planner, a financial counselor does not provide guidance for investments or long-term financial goals. The Financial Counseling Program was born from the growing need for short-term assistance for younger members, realizing that by helping members

to organize their finances and set financial goals, they would not need financial assistance in the future. They would be prepared should their financial situation unexpectedly change again. The Financial Counseling Program will also be beneficial for those applicants applying for long-term financial assistance. An example of someone being referred to the Financial Counseling Program might be a Mason who has considerable credit card debt and who is requesting assistance for payment of their bills. Historically, the Board of Directors does not approve assistance for payment of credit card debt, so this client would be referred to receive financial counseling to implement a plan. Another example of referral to the Financial Counseling Program would be a Masonic couple who finds themself in financial transition as one of them enters a higher level of care, such as assisted or a skilled care facility. A financial counselor can assist them with modifying their budget and seeking additional sources of income and benefits. Unlike the Financial Assistance Programs, the Financial Counseling Program does not have Age & Length of Membership guidelines. For more information, contact Carly Dibben at 800-434-9804 ext. 217.

Important Dates: Saturday, May 18, 2013 * Board of Director’s Meeting Columbia, MO

Saturday, July 20, 2013 * Board of Director’s Meeting Columbia, MO

Saturday, August 17, 2013 *Board of Director’s Meeting Columbia, MO

Saturday, June 15, 2013 *Board of Director’s Meeting St. Joseph, MO

Thursday, August 1, 2013 * Registration forms due for the 11th Annual “Leaves of Autumn” Golf Outing

Sunday, August 18, 2013 * Last day for fee payment for the 11th Annual “Leaves of Autumn” Golf Outing.

Spring Issue 2013 Spring2013.indd 21

page 21 5/13/2013 2:08:12 PM

11th Annual “Leaves of Autumn” Golf Outing The 11th Annual “Leaves of Autumn” Golf Outing will be held on Monday, October 7, 2013. This year the event will showcase the new golf course design at the Columbia Country Club. All procceds will assist the Children’s Outreach and Creating-A-Partnership Programs. This annual fundraiser has become a popular event for Masons and other supporters. The tournament will be limited to the first 30 teams that register and pay by the deadline of August 18, 2013. 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 the August deadline. Some changes this year will include an earlier start time to allow players to enjoy the new design of the course, different sponsorship levels for event supporters, and a full meal at the end of the day. As in years past, we will have a silent auction but this year we are offering a raffle style silent auction.

Participants can purchase raffle tickets and then drop them into containers in front of the auction item they would like to win. At the end of the auction, a raffle ticket will be pulled from the container and that lucky person will win the item. Sponsorship levels have been slightly changed this year. In the past, there was an Ad Booklet for the event and Lodges could place small business card sized advertisement in the ad booklet. This year, they will have the option of having sponsorship of items in the Silent Auction, a hole or even a contest. Sponsorhip levels can be viewed on our website and applications will be mailed to Lodges and former event sponsors in mid-April. All proceeds will go to benefit the Masonic Home of Missouri Outreach Programs. To register and/or pay for a team, please visit our website at www.mohome. org or call (800) 434-9804 to request a registration packet. Be there “Fore” the children!!

I know I am getting better at golf because I’m hitting fewer spectators. ~Gerald Ford page 22 Spring2013.indd 22

Missouri Outreach 5/13/2013 2:08:14 PM

11th Annual Golf Outing Columbia Country Club

October 7, 2013 $125/person or $500/team for Greens Fees, Cart, Food and Drinks Plus these exciting games (at $20 per game per team): Portuguese Caddy Roll the Die ! LEFT S T Choose Your Tee ED SPO AM ST SERV E T IR Y6 & ONL PAID/F T FIRS Putting Contest Registration forms due by August 1, 2013 All fees must be paid by August 18, 2013 (Payment must be received to secure your entry into this event) Cut along line and mail bottom portion to: Masonic Home of Missouri, 6033 Masonic Drive, Ste. A, Columbia, MO 65202 * 800-434-9804 (Return envelope provided for your convenience.)

Contact Name: ________________________________

Contact Phone Number: _____________________

Player Name ________________________________

Address ____________________________________

____________________________________________

___________________________________________

Shirt Size: ___ S ___ M ___L ___XL ___2XL ___3XL

Player Name ________________________________

Address ____________________________________

____________________________________________

___________________________________________

Shirt Size: ___ S ___ M ___L ___XL ___2XL ___3XL

Games:

Portuguese Caddy $20

Roll the Die $20

Choose Your Tee $20

Amount Enclosed: $_________________ You can also register and pay on-line at http://mohome.org/Special-Events.html. your fees may be tax deductible.

Spring Issue 2013 Spring2013.indd 23

Event is limited to 30 teams.

A portion of

page 23 5/13/2013 2:08:15 PM

Masonic Home of Missouri 6033 Masonic Drive, Suite A Columbia, MO 65202-6568 Phone: (573) 814-4663 Toll Free: (800) 434-9804 Fax: (573) 814-4663

D o ubl e Your Donation Did you know that thousands of companies offer corporate employee giving programs? These charitable programs are setup by corporations as a way to give back to local organizations where employees are donating either their time or money. Generally, these programs are available to full-time employees but some companies have extended them to retirees as well. The Committee Encouraging Corporate Philanthropy (CECP) found in their 2011 survey of corporate giving, that 94% of companies offered at least one matching-donation program. These programs are a big part of corporate social responsibility initiatives but at least $10 billion in workplace matching funds go unclaimed each year; often because employees are unaware of this opportunity to double their charitable-giving power. While there is no general standard for employee giving programs, companies typically offer at least one of the following: • Matching Gift – a program in which companies match donations, often dollar for dollar, made by employees, spouses and/or retirees. • Volunteer Grant – a monetary gift made to a non-profit as a way to recognize employees who volunteer with the organization. The average volunteer grant is for $10-$15 per hour volunteered by a company employee. • Annual Stipend – a set dollar amount an employee can allocate to a nonprofit of their choosing; does not require employee to make a gift or volunteer their time for the organization they choose. Does your company offer an employee giving program? When making your next donation to the Masonic Home, be sure to check with your human resources department to see if they will “double your donation” by matching it. For questions or more information on how matching gifts are credited to your Truman Club membership, please contact Julie Wiecken, Donor Relations Specialist, at (800) 434-9804 or jwiecken@mohome.org.

Spring2013.indd 24

5/13/2013 2:08:15 PM