
The Foundation
The Masonic Foundation of Nova Scotia
Founded in 1969, the Masonic Foundation of Nova Scotia is a registered public charity (# 119034510). We operate independently from the Grand Lodge of Nova Scotia, but we share its commitment to helping others and serving communities.
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Our mission is simple: to make a positive difference through benevolence, education, and community service, guided by the core values of Freemasonry:
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Brotherly Love – Treating everyone with kindness, respect, and unity
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Relief – Offering practical help to those in need through bursaries, health support, and local donations
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Truth – Encouraging honesty, personal growth, and lifelong learning
The Foundation is run by a group of elected and appointed members. Every year, Master Masons are invited to join our Annual Meeting to hear updates on our work and vote on new directors.
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Whether it’s helping students pay for school, supporting local charities, or stepping in during tough times, we’re here to build a stronger, more caring Nova Scotia. All of it is inspired by the lasting values of Freemasonry.
Understanding the Roles in Masonic Benevolence
Individual Masonic Lodges play a distinct yet complementary role in supporting Masonic benevolence, working in collaboration with the Masonic Foundation of Nova Scotia.
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Masonic Lodges and Districts – Community Engagement & Local Leadership
Lodges serve as the frontline of Masonic benevolent outreach. Their responsibilities include:
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Identifying and responding to local community needs
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Sponsoring and selecting recipients for Bursaries and Shared Funds initiatives
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Contributing financial and volunteer support to charitable efforts
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Building relationships with schools, organizations, and individuals
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Supporting individual Masons and their families through benevolent requests
The Masonic Foundation – Strategic Funding & Program Administration
The Masonic Foundation acts as the centralized benevolence entity, providing structure and resources to support the work of Lodges. Its functions include:
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Allocating financial support for Bursaries, Shared Funds, and Masonic Benevolence programs
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Managing large-scale initiatives such as the Administrative Funds Program and institutional partnerships
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Establishing and enforcing program guidelines, application processes, and reporting standards
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Ensuring oversight, governance, and transparency in all charitable disbursements
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Sustaining charitable operations through investment and long-term financial planning
Together, the Masonic Lodge and the Foundation form a dynamic partnership where Lodges deliver hands-on community engagement, and the Foundation ensures sustainability, reach, and strategic impact.
