Masons have a long history of supporting learning, education and the public schools. In several states, Masons established the first public schools. Many do not know, that in 1817 Masons in Michigan provided the much needed support for the newly-created University of Michigan. Of the total amount subscribed to start the University, two-thirds came from the Masons in Michigan.

In Michigan, Masons have been instrumental in the Juvenile Diabetes Program and the very successful Student Model Assistance Program designed to help teachers identify students who may be suffering from substance abuse.

As such, it is fair to say that Masons have been involved with the school but not necessarily in the schools. When Masons announced the Beacon Projectd , all of that changed.

In January 2001, a statewide team of Mason volunteers in over 400 communities began working with local elementary schools. In capacities large and small, from mentoring to grounds keeping, Michigan Masons work to improve the experience and educational opportunities of children in their communities.

The Michigan State Department of Education calls it wonderful. The Governor calls it outstanding. We call it the right move at the right time.

The genesis for the Beacon Project came from Bob Conley, the Grand Master of Michigan Masons in 2000/2001. "This pledge gives Masons the opportunity to make a difference and make themselves known. Too long in the background, and often shrouded in mystery, our Fraternity is eager to demonstrate its important role in society. Masons need to revitalize, to make real, the values and commitments they stand for and it's my job as Grand Master to support that goal. Beacon is the perfect vehicle for that."

Over the next three years more than 200,000 volunteer hours will have been donated, the largest gift ever of its kind in Michigan. Join us. Affiliated Masonic organizations, families, and friends have all been encouraged to participate in this ambitious program.