Why I Give: To Be Part of Something Bigger Than Myself

Paul Dana, a Master Mason at Phoenix Lodge No. 144 joined Masonry because he felt a deep connection between the fraternity and his own values - particularly his brothers' efforts to give back, within their community and their lodge.

"I found exactly what I was looking for," he says. "A group of guys from all sorts of different backgrounds with common goals and common ideas of charity and giving back.

Paul has given back within the fraternity through volunteer events, and by joining the officer line. Now senior deacon, he's proud to demonstrate his commitment to the fraternity by supporting the Annual Fund.

Because Paul feels a strong personal connection to public education, he chose to direct his support to California public schools. "The desire to learn, to know more - that is Masonry in itself," he says. "This is our opportunity to give love and charity, and hope that it grows into something great."

Join Paul in supporting California Public Schools: Give to the Annual Fund.

And, read more about Paul in the Masons of California 2013-14 Annual Report.

All freemason.org articles may be repurposed by any Masonic publication with credit to the Grand Lodge of California. Print this article and post it at lodge; include it in your Trestleboard or website; email it to members; or use the buttons at the top of this page to share it on Facebook or Twitter.