Beyond the Lodge: The Charitable Works of Illinois Freemasons

A Long History of Giving

The tradition of organized charity among Illinois Masons is not a recent development. It traces its roots back to the late 19th century, a period of immense growth for both the state and the fraternity. As early as the 1880s, the Grand Lodge of Illinois began establishing major charitable institutions to care for the most vulnerable members of society.36

In 1886, the Grand Lodge opened a children's home in Chicago to provide care for orphans. This was followed in 1888 by the establishment of a home and hospital in Sullivan for aged and infirm Masons and their families.36 The Chicago Children's Home later moved to a larger facility in LaGrange, where, by 1931, it was caring for over 300 children.38 This commitment to youth continued into the 21st century with the opening of a second children's home in Murphysboro in 2004.38 These early institutions laid the groundwork for a lasting legacy of compassion and service.

Modern Charitable Programs

Today, the charitable efforts of Illinois Freemasons are organized under a comprehensive umbrella of programs designed to meet a variety of community needs. These initiatives are a modern expression of the timeless Masonic duty to practice relief.

Illinois Masonic Outreach Services (IMOS): This program is the direct fulfillment of a Mason's oath to aid his brethren and their families. IMOS provides support and assistance to Masons, their spouses, widows, and orphans during times of necessity and distress.49

Illinois Masonic Student Assistance Program (IMSAP): Working within the school system, IMSAP is a proactive, early-intervention program that trains educators to identify and assist students who are at risk due to issues like substance abuse, depression, or family problems.49

Illinois Masonic Academic Bowl: To promote the value of education, the Freemasons of Illinois sponsor this annual statewide scholastic tournament, providing a platform for high school students to receive positive recognition for academic excellence.49

Illinois Masonic Children’s Assistance Program (IMCAP): IMCAP partners with local Masonic lodges to provide direct financial assistance to children and young adults in their communities who have specific needs that cannot be met by other sources.49

Illinois Masonic Family Identification Program (IL CHIP): In a proactive effort to combat the tragedy of missing and abducted children, Illinois Masons hold and fund free identification workshops for families across the state. Parents are provided with a complete kit of identifying materials for their child, including fingerprints, DNA samples, and a video interview.38

The private, internal work of moral instruction that takes place within the lodge is not meant to remain there. It is intended to forge the character of men who are then expected to go out into the world and put their principles into action. The extensive and highly public charitable work of Illinois Freemasons is the direct result of this philosophy. It demonstrates that Freemasonry is not an insular, self-serving society, but one that is deeply committed to the welfare of the entire community. From caring for their own to protecting children and promoting education, Illinois Masons translate the tenet of Relief into tangible, positive, and life-changing action every day.