Sachs was determined to change that, at least in his corner of the state. So he got involved in the fraternity’s lodge outreach program, which trains volunteers from Masonic lodges in each division to get in contact with elderly or needy Masons, their families, and their widows, and to explain the services available to them. Now, at quarterly meetings, he and other volunteers talk about their toughest outreach challenges and how to lean on one another to solve them. They learn about the services that MOS offers to fraternal family members—benefits just waiting to be tapped into.

While most Masons are familiar with the Masonic Homes senior housing campuses in Union City and Covina, it’s actually through Masonic Outreach Services—a division of the Masonic Homes organization—that the vast majority of Masonic assistance reaches those in need. MOS provides guidance, care management, and in some cases financial support to Masons, widows, and eligible family members no matter where they live, even outside California. It’s helped hundreds of elderly people age at home safely and with dignity by connecting them with in-home care. It’s helped others navigate health crises, job losses, and major challenges regardless of age. “MOS was created so our members and their loved ones don’t have to face tough times alone,” says Sabrina Montes, executive director. “Aging at home, financial insecurity—these problems can be really hard to solve by yourself. But you don’t have to.”

Since launching in the early 2000s, the program has quietly become the fraternity’s dominant source of Masonic relief. In 2021, it served 492 people through $3.5 million in support, up 20 percent from five years ago.

It’s all thanks to two things: funding through members’ dues and donations, and volunteers through the lodge outreach program.