On Friday 21st April 30 charity representatives and Freemasons gathered for an evening of presentations and Fish and Chips for what was the first charities forum organised by the Isle of Man Freemasons.
The head of the Isle of Man Freemasons, Provincial Grand Master Martin Blackburn, opened the event giving a detailed overview as to how the Masonic charities work and the independent giving by the 19 Masonic Lodges. He was supported by Neil Boyes, Provincial Grand Charity Stewart of the Mark Degree, a companion order of Freemasonry. Craft, Mark Degree and the other companion degrees, all give to charities. The Mark Charity donated its second fully equipped Ambulance to St. John Ambulance on the Island. Many freemasons, including Martin Blackburn as an Ambulance driver, give up their spare time to assist the charities as well.
The Charities
A total of 10 charities were represented, all of which currently receive assistance from the Isle of Man Freemasons. The charity representatives then explained to the audience the work they do, and how they feel Freemasonry can best support them through these difficult times. The help and assistance provided to all walks of life by all those volunteers is extraordinary and more often than not completely under the radar.
- Crossroads Care
- TT Riders Association and Friends of the TT Riders Association
- Isle of Man Anti Cancer Association
- Douglas Coal Fund
- St. John Ambulance
- Live at Home
- Manx Benevolent Fund
- Motor Neurone Disease Association Isle of Man
- Southern Befrienders
The Event
After an evening meal of fish, chips and peas, a waffle was held. A donation of £250 had been received to be given to one of the represented charities. All being well, this sum will be match funded, so the charity may receive a total of £500! The name of each charity was put into a box and a draw was made. The lucky winner was 'Live at Home’ - what a night for the charity. Not only did they win the £250, but Steve Hall, the Immediate Past Master of St. Maughold Lodge, and his wife Tina, also presented a cheque over £1500, being the money raised at their Ladies’ Night.
Besides financial help, Freemasons were able to offer help in the form of volunteers, free use of meeting rooms for Charities, and a group of Freemasons offered the use of a minibus (eight seats plus driver) and if needed, the Brethren would offer their services as chauffeurs!
