From its earliest days, Freemasonry has been concerned with charity and care. Today, over $2 million is donated each day to help people who need it – with much of that assistance going to non-Masonic recipients. Whether it’s caring for children with physical and mental disabilities; funding research into eye disease, diabetes and Alzheimer’s; or providing education for young people, the values of integrity, kindness, and honesty are taught at every level. It’s a simple principle: We gather together to help each other become better men, and through our charities we strive for a better world.

Masonic Charities in Virginia: Helping Hands Across the State

There are several different Masonic charities in Virginia that are supported by the members of the fraternity. For example, the Shrine Masons operate the nation’s largest network of hospitals for burned and orthopedically impaired children; the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry maintains a national system of more than 150 childhood language disorder clinics, centers, and programs; and many other organizations sponsor philanthropies and perform public services in their communities. Masonic appendant groups also exist, including the Order of the Eastern Star for women and girls; and boy scouting and girl scouting programs which are open to both Masons and their non-Masonic family members.

The most important Masonic charity in Virginia is the Masonic Home of Virginia (MAHOVA). Established in 1778, MAHOVA is a private facility located on ninety pristine acres just outside Richmond, VA. MAHOVA offers a Life Plan Community and an Outreach Program for in-home care and assistance, serving Masonic families throughout the state. MAHOVA exists and thrives because of donations from donors who believe in our mission to enhance the quality of life of older Virginia Masons by offering a lifetime of care.