Since 1983, the Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma has matched over $39 million for local charitable projects.
This program is designed to help Lodges make a real difference in their communities. Each year, the Foundation makes available $12,500 for matching funds efforts, of which $10,000 can be used for community matching (the remaining $2,500 can be used for Promises Matter matching efforts or the Lodge can opt to use all $12,500 for Promises Matter matching efforts).
How The Program Works
- Identify a need in the community
- Vote as a Lodge to approve support
- Submit an online pre-approval form (if fundraiser is a partnership)
- Plan a Lodge-led effort or fundraiser
- Submit a matching request
- The Foundation reviews the application
- Upon approval, the Foundation sends matching funds
- The Lodge distributes the funds to the person or group in need
- Submit an online completion form
Ways to Raise Matching Funds
- Vote to allocate funds from the Lodge treasury
- “Pass the Hat” during a Lodge meeting to collect member donations
- Hold a Lodge-led fundraiser
What Criteria is Applied to Determine Program Eligibility?
For an effort to be eligible for matching funds the following must be true:
- The fundraiser is being initiated and managed in full by the Lodge
- Funds are not being collected to support the Lodge itself
- The fundraiser could not and would not happen without the Lodge
Can We Advertise Matching Funds?
No. Do not mention Matching Funds in any promotions. Funds are not guaranteed and require approval. Advertising them will result in application denial. Best practice: Promote as a Masonic Lodge fundraiser that is for the benefit of a recipient.
