Improving Quality of Life - The Masonic Medical Fund
Everyday, new technologies are introduced to enhance the quality of medical services for all. The commitment of the Masonic Medical Fund of Wisconsin---to seek new funding to advance medical technologies, which support public health and safety, will continue to improve the quality of life for residents across the state.
The Masonic Medical Fund of Wisconsin was originally known as the Masonic Medical Foundation of Wisconsin, Inc., when it began in 1972. Since then, the Foundation's name has changed, along with the face of medicine. At its inception, the Masonic Medical Fund supported only one facility, the Masonic Diagnostic and Treatment Center of Milwaukee. Just as the treatment center has expanded over the years, so have the efforts of the Masonic Medical Fund.
By 1986, the Fund had created its Wisconsin Masonic Lodge Hospital, Health Care and Rehabilitation Matching Grants Program. The program encouraged local Masonic Lodges to partner with institutions in their communities to both identify and support health and safety related programs. These partnerships are what allow the Masonic Medical Fund to meet the challenges the future holds.
Accomplishments
Since the Matching Grants Program began, it has supported over 225 projects in 42 of Wisconsin's 72 counties. This means that over 63% of the state's population is within reach of a program supported by the Masonic Medical Fund of Wisconsin. In terms of dollars and cents, the Matching Grants Program has provided over $300,000 for use by medical service organizations across the state.
Funds raised in recent years have:
- Equipped fire departments with thermal imaging equipment
- Equipped rescue departments with life saving devices such as the "Jaws of Life," and the "Rescue Alive" pontoon boat
- Equipped high schools across Wisconsin with automatic external defibrillators through the Medical Fund's involvement with Project A.D.A.M.
In addition 78% of the Matching Grant Funds support health care efforts across the state, including support for the Masonic Diagnostic Center at Sinai Samaritan Hospital, the Masonic Outreach program, and additional support for existing hospital facilities. Most important, it is a known fact the Medical Fund-based programs have saved lives!
Finally, 5% of the Matching Grants Funds support veterans, and 10% of the funds support programs that benefit children.
For information on applying for Matching Funds from the Masonic Medical Fund, please click here.
To find out how you can help the Masonic Medical Fund, click here.