Missouri Masonic Children’s Foundation

Misssouri Child Identification and Protection Program

“what come you here to do?”

By RWB Mitchell S. Penn MOCHIP Corrdinator Since joining our fraternity, opportunities for personal growth and fulfillment have been very common. From a gentle nudge to take a Steward’s chair during a degree, to being elected to serve as Worshipful Master, the confidence and support of our peers brings about change in a member. It is always for the better, yet sometimes the responsibilities that accompany our ascension are truly frightening. Our willingness to act responsibly in the face of this fear is a keen indication of what our fraternity has given to us. The questions that come to mind are, “How do we give back?,”, “Where in the grand scheme of things do we fit in?”, and “How can we be of service to our fellow man?”

Our great fraternity offers an abundance of ways that we can be a part of something bigger than ourselves. One of these, and my personal favorite, is our very own MOCHIP program. We will always need the help and support of our membership to make it work. Team leaders, event volunteers, Brothers promoting community awareness, and financial support are some of the crucial areas that are always in need.

If you are looking to get involved, we currently have openings for Regional coordinators in the central and southeastern parts of the state. Or maybe you would like to volunteer at an event in your area. Start a conversation with your lodge membership about hosting an event. Or you could simply round up your annual dues payment to the next dollar earmarked for MOCHIP. These are just a few suggestions on how you can be of assistance. Generally, things have been slow due to the restrictions associated with COVID-19 impacting our ability to do events, but there is a lot going on behind the scenes. We are working to stay current with constantly changing technology. For instance, there has been some discussion on how we could be even more mobile, and versatile with events. It seems a drive thru format is possible and would certainly be effective in our current environment. We have also made the decision to suspend the making of dental impressions at events, and instead are asking parents, who are willing, to make them at home. We will provide the wafer and simple instructions for use in the packet, as this is our most powerful tool in identifying a child.

One thing is certain, the need for the peace of mind that we can provide to Missouri families has not waned, nor has our desire to provide it to them. We are working to evolve with our environment to continue to be of service, and as always, would appreciate your help. If you would like to get more involved, give me a call, and let’s talk MOCHIP. You will not regret it.