Endeavor Lodge Almoner’s Fund
Dedicated to the memory of Raymond G. “Bugsy” Harp
Mission – “I will aid and assist all worthy, distressed Brother Master Masons, their Widows and Orphans”
The fund is dedicated to the relief of worthy distressed members and their families and aid in /masonic relief efforts nationwide.
Committee establishment –
One additional Committee member established for the receiving and screening of applications for relief funds. Once an applicant has been screened, the Fund‘s committee member will present the request to the standing WM, the lodge secretary, lodge treasurer and the committee heads of the Sick and distressed and fund raising for review. Once complete it will be voted on in open lodge by all masons attending.
Almoner’s Funds will only be used by approved lodge vote.
Fund creation and management –
An account specific to the fund created and managed by the lodge treasurer. Account balance read at regular Masonic meetings
A percentage of the moneys collected during fund raisers, 2 – 5 % would be placed in the Almoner’s fund.
There will be a $250.00 limit for each applicant
There will be a locked donation box placed in the lodge for the collection of funds and an announcement in open lodge when these funds are required.
No more passing the hat in open lodge.
At least 50 percent of the fund will be paid yearly to qualified applicants who had experienced a hardship.
Application for relief –
Any member, widow or dependent child may apply to the lodge for assistance through a member, standing worshipful Master, or directly to the Lodge Almoner.
If so requested an applicant may request their application be considered in confidence.
The Identity of the applicant will only be known to the Lodge Almoner and the Worshipful Master. The lodge treasurer, Secretary and the committee heads of the Sick and Distressed may be included on an as-needed basis.
Each year the Almoner will submit to the lodge an annual accounting of the Almoner’s Fund.
The lodge will publish in its notice a list of how and why the funds were used to benefit a member or his family at least once a year.
No names will be published (unless written permission is granted).
Action Items –
- The creation of the Almoners bank account
- A naming of the fund specific to Endeavour lodge #17 – Dedicated to the memory of Raymond G. “Bugsy” Harp
- The appointment of a Lodge Almoner – Currently Dave Johns for one year
- A locked box made and placed in the lodge – Currently working and will be available Nov. 10 regular slated meeting
- An initial donation of funds to start the fund