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The Beacon Project
Submitted by Site Administrator on Fri, 2006-06-23 19:21.
[ Beacon Project ]
Masons and Education
Masons have a long history of supporting learning, education and public schools. Masons in New York City established the first public schools, which became the model for public education in the State under Gov. DeWitt Clinton. It is fair to say that Masons have been involved with schools, but not necessarily in the schools.
If there is one fact we know about the new century it is that we cannot count upon the government or even our taxes to support many public institutions, including our community schools. Therefore, the importance of volunteerism has reached a new high and the demand has outstripped the supply.
Volunteers are generally welcome in the schools in New York. They play a daily and component part in nearly every aspect of the school day. They help in classrooms, cafeterias, on the playing field, on field trips and at special events.
Beginning in September 2002 a statewide team of volunteers, sponsored through the Masons of the State of New York, will begin working with local schools. In capacities large and small we will work to improve the experience and educational opportunities of the children in their community.
Our goal over the next two years is to donate 100,000 volunteer hours to our schools; the largest gift of its kind in New York. If just 10% of New York Masons contribute just two hours a day, ten days a year we will reach our goal of the 100,000 hours. What a gift to give to our children and grandchildren!
And, one need not be a Mason to enroll with us. This project involves everyone: spouses, family members, friends, business associates, neighbors and affiliated Masonic groups are encouraged to participate.
The project is for our children and our communities and everyone is a partner.
Questions & Answers
Can I customize my schedule?
Yes
What would I be doing?
The school will define its individual needs. In most cases you will be assigned a teacher/classroom who will supervise your activity. It may be reading with a student, hall patrol, assisting in the office or being apart of a group effort to improve the playground. In New York City one of the Districts helped to create and improve the school library. The school, the students and our Fraternity became the richer because of their efforts.
Is there an age limit?
No. In fact, this is an ideal program for retirees who are looking to productively occupy their time and contribute to their community. Besides, being with children helps to keep one young.
What if a school is nearby and my Lodge is at a different location?
Not a problem. The Lodge nearest to your school will be contacted and you can be assigned to that school through that Lodge, and your Lodge will be credited for your volunteer time. This is not a contest of who can do what; this contest is how can we best serve our children and our community? This is Masonry in action.
How do I volunteer?
Through your Lodge Beacon Project Chairman, or the DDGM or Staff Officer (who are directly responsible in their District). You may sign up non-Mason volunteers ca and give their names to the above.
And if I have further questions?
You can always contact the Beacon Project State Chairman,
R.·. W.·. Marwin Meller at: 1-732-462-7344 beacon_project@nymasons.org beacon2@nymasons.us
The need is there, you are there... is it within the length of your cabletow?
