Boston GLASS
Grand Master Erik Fearing’s project for this year is Boston GLASS – GLBTQ+ Adolescent Social Services.
GLASS is a program run by the Justice Resource Institute serving queer youth of color up to age 25. Their service model addresses young people’s immediate needs, equips them with tools to make healthy decisions and live fulfilling lives, and creates communities in which they can thrive.
GLASS operates drop-in centers for LGBTQ+ youth of color in Boston and Framingham, with program offerings including support groups, educational workshops, and social events. They also provide access to computers and internet, food, toiletries, clothes, games, and more.
Odd Fellows Home
The Odd Fellows Home of Massachusetts was founded in 1891 and remains in operation today as a high quality, nonprofit nursing facility with 100 beds. Fundraising efforts which benefit the Home allow us to provide affordable care to a more diverse group of residents while maintaining high standards as an employer.
Elected officers of the Grand Lodge serve on the Board of Directors and frequently enjoy events with residents, their families, and the Odd Fellows supporting out work.
Arthritis Foundation
Massachusetts has been leading the way for the rest of the country and in 1985, Sovereign Grand Master George E. Shaw recognized that a national relationship with the Arthritis Foundation would make a huge difference for the millions afflicted with this debilitating disease, and with the help of Past SGM, Hugh Bradley, enacted and passed legislation making Arthritis an approved Sovereign Grand Lodge Activity. It took seven years to raise the first $1,000,000 and only three years to raise the second. Currently, we are contributing over $500,000 annually, and for the past 21 years, the Jurisdiction of Massachusetts has received the SGL Platinum Award for making the largest annual contribution to the Arthritis Foundation.