Some new ideas suggest how Masonry can improve its community image
by working with local public schools.

Men of vision, with bold ideas that work, build great institutions, and there is no better place to implement these ideas than in your own community. Good public relations are a necessity for any organization that wishes to succeed. Creating a positive image enhances Freemasonry's status in the minds of the general public and creates a favorable climate for attracting good men to our Fraternity. That in turn, provides vitality to local Lodges and all Appendant Masonic Bodies.

To enhance Masonry's image in your community, explore the possibility for channeling scholarship monies into other educational directions and innovative programs. Some suggestions follow, but first identify a Brother or Brethren in Lodge who will truly be interested in pursuing these new aims. If it becomes a labor of love for the person or persons chairing it, the program will stand a much better chance of success.

The days of the annual scholarship of $100 are history. It's time to use whatever funds a Lodge has for education in a more direct meaningful way. Given budget restraints, the local school principal will certainly have a need for additional school equipment for the academic classroom, science laboratory, or sports field. Consider funding an item on the wish list of the current Teacher of the Year. It is very likely these gifts will be mentioned in the school's or district's publication, and, because of it, a Lodge or Temple will benefit immensely from this noble act. If at all possible, arrange a photo opportunity for presenting the equipment at a PTA meeting or school assembly and submit the photo with a written story of the event to your local newspaper. If suitable, place a placard on the equipment so that the message of the Masonic support extends beyond the moment of contribution.

Also, supporting the local Parent Teacher Association's efforts could create an excellent source of possible future members, as well as improve Masonry's public image. Ask the school librarian for suggestions. Perhaps there is something needed in the library that the school budget could not support. Also, donate or purchase books to fill their needs, including selective books on Freemasonry. The Scottish Rite has many excellent books on Americanism for school children. I suspect, your local public library would certainly be appreciative for these types of books, due in part because of our Country's present activities.

Some Masonic Bodies, as in Baltimore, have a carefully prepared program for approaching a librarian and offering appropriate Masonic books for inclusion in the library's collection. A brochure on how to do this effectively is available from the Masonic Service Association of North America for only $.50 each. Ask for "The Baltimore Book Program," catalog I-95. (Masonic Service Association, 8120 Fenton Street, Silver Spring, MD 20910-4785; 301-588-4010; Fax: 301-608-3457; e-mail: msana@ix.netcom.com.)

Don't overlook the possibility of assisting or supporting a career or special interest club in your local high school, community college, or university. Any assistance will help students and may someday be paid in kind with a petition for Masonic membership, either from the student or her husband.

Generally, we think of teens as students, but we should remember that many young men and women are seeking their education too. Some of them may also need assistance, and once impressed with the character of Freemasonry, they too may be interested in joining or supporting our good work.

Two things are needed to advance Freemasonry in your community--good creative thinking and energy to put your plans into action. A vital local Fraternity can result from these grass-roots efforts. Plant the seeds, and they will grow!

Joseph P. C. Surace is a member of Christopher Diehl Lodge No. 19, Magna, Utah. After his retirement from the U.S. Marines in 1985, he received his Master's Degree in Education and has worked in various public school systems. An avid Masonic researcher, he serves as the Assistant Grand Secretary and Assistant Grand Lodge Librarian for the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Utah. He has been a member of the Scottish Rite Research Society since 1994.