June 2022: Through MHC, the “Crown Jewel” Is Available to You

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Through MHC, the 'Crown Jewel' Is Available to All

Note: Download our new virtual booklet full of simple answers to common questions about Freemasonry and advice for talking about it with non-members.

June is Masonic Homes Month, a time when the Masons of California typically salute the staff and residents of the two senior residential communities that make them—as they’re often described—the “crown jewels” of the fraternity.

This year, however, we want to flip that equation on its head.

Rather than recognize those within the Masonic Homes, we want to make sure those on the outside are fully aware of the wide range of services available to them through MHC. California Masons have an incredible resource at their disposal in the Homes, and one that far too often, they simply don’t know enough about. Says Sabrina Montes, the executive director of Masonic Outreach Services, “We’re here to support you, no matter how big or small that is.”

Understanding the Masonic Homes of California's Services

The most visible part of the Masonic Homes of California is, well, the homes themselves. And as important to the mission of Masonic relief as the residences in Union City and Covina are, they are only one part of it. (Or rather, two.) In fact, many of the Masonic Homes of California’s other services ultimately reach a far greater number of people, including Masons, than the senior homes do. They include:

Masonic Assistance Line and Masonic Outreach Services
This hotline connects California Masons from any part of the state with a team of counselors and staff from the Masonic Outreach Services team who can identify and connect them to resources they need, whatever that is. Oftentimes that involves health-related issues—assistance with obtaining a wheelchair or arranging in-home care for a loved one—but it can also involve financial assistance or advice for those facing hardships. These aren’t only for seniors or those meeting certain financial criteria. The help line is open to all Masons of all ages. Lodges can schedule for a member of Masonic Outreach Services to speak to their lodge about the range of services they offer and how to access them. 888-466-3642.
Masonic Center for Youth and Families
Based in San Francisco and Covina, MCYAF specializes in emotional wellness services for children, teens, adults, and seniors—in other words, everyone. This includes both in-person and virtual services, including therapy and family and marriage counseling. Additionally, MCYAF offers a host of programs for school-age children and teens including academic support, testing for learning issues, and dealing with mental and behavioral challenges. No Masons are ever turned away from MCYAF, and fees are charged on a sliding scale, making them within reach for all members and their families. mcyaf.org.
Memory Care and Assisted Living for Everyone
The newly opened Pavilion at the Masonic Homes, in Union City, represents an important expansion of MHC’s leading work on memory-loss conditions like Alzheimer’s and dementia. With an entire floor devoted to those experiencing memory loss and a second floor for those in need of assisted-living services, the Pavilion is bringing MHC’s model of care to the wider population. While Masons are given priority admission to the Pavilion, its services are open to all—meaning that California Masons can now refer family members who aren’t in the fraternity there for care. pavilion-unioncity.org.
Masonic Value Network
Understanding all that goes into senior care can be difficult for anyone, whether you’re looking for care yourself, or for a parent or loved one. Through the Masonic Value Network, California Masons can get help finding and connecting to needed and affordable senior care services. The network includes independent providers in several areas of care, including in-home care, senior living communities, and senior-care placement services. Also, the Masonic Value Network includes a pharmacy discount program to help you find the best prescription drug prices at pharmacies in your area. masonichome.org/valuenetwork
Post-Surgery Rehab in Union City
Another service offered to the public in Union City is Transitions, a short-term care program for neurological and post-surgical rehabilitation. Through it, those recovering from a stroke, heart attack, or other health issue can tap into MHC’s care services and residential facilities for a matter or weeks or months after they’re discharged from the hospital. masonichome.org.

Your June Checklist

Stay on track of lodge business and prepare for important deadlines. Here’s your June checklist.

Senior Warden, along with Executive Committee

Identify and approach members for 2023 open elected and appointed officer positions.
Identify and approach members for the 2023 Audit, Membership Retention, and any other committees.
Set calendar for 2023 and identify event leaders.
Continue preparing 2023 budget.
Set installation date and approach installing officer, master of ceremonies, and chaplain.
Review all candidates’ progress towards advancement.

Junior Warden

Continue tracking 100% officer giving to the Annual Fund, with officers setting an example through gifts that represent their capability as well as their commitment to our charitable programs.

Secretary

Send list of members with late dues to the Retention Committee.
Send any suspension notices via certified mail.
Provide necessary information so Charity Committee can consider remissions.
Review roster for accuracy in preparation for the end of the Grand Lodge membership year, June 30.
If you haven't yet, register for the August Secretary Association virtual meeting.

Questions? Contact Member Services at memberservices@freemason.org or (415) 776-7000.