Philanthropy

Since 1934, Scottish Rite in the Northern Jurisdiction has directed and financed the first coordinated research program into the cause of schizophrenia-the most widespread and serious form of mental illness. This research activity, of benefit to all mankind, is carried on with the cooperation of an advisory committee composed of leading medical scientists, psychiatrists and psychologists. Scottish Rite to date has appropriated more than $12,750,000 for this purpose.

The 32° Masonic Learning Centers for Children program was established in 1994 to provide dyslexic children with specialized tutoring to enable them to read and write more effectively. This service, offered free of charge, will be available at 55 centers in the 15-state jurisdiction by 2003. Twenty-four centers are open to date, already resulting in many success stories of young children being able to overcome their disability. In the year 2000, the Supreme Council has appropriated $4 million to the building and maintenance of the learning center program. To visit the Learning Center Web site, click here.

As a Masonic contribution to the Bicentennial observance, Scottish Rite constructed and opened a Museum and Library devoted to our national heritage. The attractive facility at historic Lexington, Massachusetts, has been erected by Scottish Rite members and friends for the purpose of disseminating knowledge of the country’s history, purposes and ideals among all the people, especially our youth.

Scottish Rite sponsors the Leon M. Abbott Scholarships, named for the former Sovereign Grand Commander who by a generous legacy founded the Supreme Council Education and Charity Fund. Originally, Abbott grants went to university schools of journalism and schools of international service. Now, scholarships are allotted to the 15 states and in turn awarded to the offspring of Scottish Rite members and to young men and women who have participated in such youth organizations as DeMolay, Rainbow, and Job’s Daughters. Recipients may use grants at universities of their choice. More than $790,000 in scholarships has been awarded since 1952

What activities can I take part in as a member of Scottish Rite?

The opportunities for active participation are almost unlimited. The 110 Valleys of the Northern Jurisdiction are continually seeking the variety of talents necessary to the work of the Rite. Degree presentations not only require ritualists and those with dramatic abilities, but choirs, orchestras, stage crews, make-up men and service committees of all kinds. This is also true of plays and other entertainment programs, such as the November "Family Week" events, that many Valleys present for members and families. Scottish Rite Bodies search constantly for officer material, many Valleys have publications which welcome the help of those with a literary bent, membership committees seek personnel to maintain the flow of candidates, and publicity committees need the help of those experienced in this specialized field.

It is the aim of Scottish Rite to provide a suitable place for every member who wishes to have an active role in the advancement of the Rite.