In early March, Vicki White contacted Right Worshipful Brother Fred Goldstein of Aerospace Lodge #800 seeking assistance for her mother, Dolores White. She is the widow of a Mason who needed a stairlift to safely remain in her home. Worshipful Brother Tony Collins of Aerospace Lodge #800 responded by reaching out to Brooke Simonson, Central Ohio Coordinator for The Ohio Masonic Communities Resource Center (OMCRC). Brooke then partnered with DeAnna Kinney, Coordinator of OMCRC’s Masonic Volunteer Program, to connect with the necessary resources and volunteers to help the family.
Edsel Emery, a Masonic Volunteer from the 24th Masonic District, coordinated the effort alongside Brother Frank Serrao of Wellsville Lodge and Worshipful Master Tony Collins, who also serves as a Masonic Volunteer in the 19th District. The project began with a generous $500 donation from the Lodge, which covered the majority of the approximately $600 installation cost. An equally generous gift came from Jack Riley, volunteer Edsel Emery's neighbor, who donated a stairlift which had previously been used by his late wife. His thoughtful donation made it possible for the project to move forward and ensured that the equipment was given a second life by helping another family in need.
Demonstrating an extraordinary commitment to service, Edsel and Frank traveled more than 160 miles to transport the stairlift to Mrs. White's home. They were joined by Worshipful Brother Mark Bruns of Aerospace Lodge #800, who volunteered his time and expertise to install a new electrical outlet required for the stairlift's operation. Together, these dedicated Brothers delivered, prepared, and installed the lift, ensuring that Mrs. White could safely access every level of her home and continue living independently.
This is Freemasonry in action—Brothers uniting in service, compassion, and relief for those in need. The generosity of Jack Riley, the financial support of Aerospace Lodge #800, and the dedication of the volunteers exemplify the principles of the Fraternity and highlight the impact of OMCRC’s Masonic Volunteer Program. By working across district lines and combining their time, talents, resources, and expertise, these volunteers made a lasting difference for a member of the Masonic family.
Their actions remind us that the true strength of Freemasonry lies not only in our shared values, but also in our willingness to put those values into action through philanthropy, cooperation, and service.
