Freemasonry is dedicated to the brotherhood of man under the fatherhood of God. Masons share a tradition of excellence which emphasizes personal integrity, commitment to family, and service to the community. It uses the tools and implements of ancient architectural craftsmen symbolically in a system of instruction designed to build character and moral values in its members. Its singular purpose is to make good men better. Masons are men of good character who strive to improve themselves and make the world a better place.
Beyond its focus on individual development and growth, Masonry is deeply involved in helping people. Community service and charitable work are principal masonic activities. Some of these are vast projects.
The Shrine masons operate the largest network of hospitals for burned and orthopaedically impaired children in the country. The Scottish Rite masons maintain a nationwide network of over 150 childhood language disorder clinics, centers, and programs.
Other masonic bodies support their own statewide and national foundations for research, teaching, and treatment or rehabilitation services for children with learning or speech disorders, cancer, visual problems, and need of dental restoration. Ohio Freemasons also support the Ohio Special Olympics.
Masons everywhere assist distressed brother Masons and their families, including the support of their own Ohio Masonic Home. Masons serve as community volunteers and quietly extend help for countless thousands with scholarship programs and public service activities.
Altogether, the budgets for these community services exceed 2 million dollars per day, which Masons support without regard to the Masonic affiliation of their recipients.
If you think you may be interested in becoming a member, you can begin by contacting a lodge in your area or speaking to a mason.