Masonic Lodge Scholarship

Freemasonry is the oldest and the largest fraternal order in the world. It is a fraternity that has spread around the globe based on the shared principles of brotherly love, relief, and truth. Freemasons are dedicated to serving their families, communities, and countries, while striving to improve themselves through a system of moral teachings. Modern Freemasonry eschews discussion of politics or religion in the lodge, although all members profess a belief in a Supreme Being.

One of the lessons taught through Freemasonry is the great value and satisfaction derived from charitable acts. Additionally, Freemasons have long believed in the vital importance of an educated populace, and promoted the availability of public education for all who wish it.

Since 1958, there have been two Masonic Lodges active in Corvallis: Marys River Lodge and Corvallis Lodge. For many years, it has been a shared goal of Freemasons in the Corvallis area to establish a scholarship program in furtherance of public education for our community’s youth.

Around 2004, members of Marys River Lodge formed a committee to create the current scholarship program. One committee member was familiar with Benton Community Foundation (BCF) and realized the Foundation and Freemasons have a shared goal: investment in the youth of our community.

Marys River Lodge began a series of fundraising events, culminating with the creation of a scholarship fund through BCF in 2007. Freemasons and members of associated Masonic Family organizations from Corvallis and the surrounding area participated in past and ongoing fundraising efforts. Working through BCF allowed the lodge members to focus on fundraising, knowing that BCF would handle the important details of managing the investments and endowments. Additionally, donors can now make tax-deductible contributions, increasing the attractiveness of the fund.