Florence, Kansas (September 11, 2026)—The Kansas Masonic Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to benefiting Kansas communities, has partnered with Advance Lodge No. 114 to donate $1,000 to the USD 408 Head Start Program.
Founded in 1872, Advance Lodge No. 114 is a Kansas Masonic lodge dedicated to Freemasonry, the oldest surviving fraternal organization in the world. The lodge has 38 active members and supports various local organizations and causes, including providing college scholarships to local high school students, sponsoring an interview program for Center High School Juniors and Seniors, participating in the Annual Labor Day Celebration, supporting the local motorcycle race, and helping with the local Chamber activities and the Florence Historical Society. The lodge Brothers also work with the Florence United Methodist Church to distribute commodities to those in need and offer their Masonic Center for various community activities throughout the year.
“Head Start is designed for 3- to 5-year-old children, aiming to prepare them for kindergarten,” said Advance Lodge No. 114 Secretary Leslie Allison. “Lesli Berry emphasizes teaching social and emotional skills to handle situations and better relate to people, and we feel strongly in the importance of this education.”
To further their mission of supporting those in need, the Brothers at Advance Lodge No. 114 have teamed up with the Kansas Masonic Foundation to donate $1,000 to the USD 408 Head Start Program. All funds donated will help provide scholarships to students in need who would not otherwise be able to afford such education. A formal donation presentation will take place on September 14, 2026.
About the Kansas Masonic Foundation: As the philanthropic arm of Kansas Masons, the Kansas Masonic Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to benefiting Kansas communities and supporting fellow Masons and their families. Since its inception, the foundation has invested more than $50 million in Kansas communities and individuals through funding academic, scientific, and charitable endeavors. For additional information about the Kansas Masonic Foundation and to get involved, please click here.
About the Grand Lodge of Kansas: The Grand Lodge of Kansas is the governing body of Freemasonry in Kansas, established on March 17, 1856, five years prior to Kansas’ statehood. Freemasonry is the oldest, largest, and most widely recognized fraternal organization in the world. Freemasons are men, aged 18 and over, of good character who strive to improve themselves and make the world a better place. Kansas Freemasonry encompasses nearly 11,000 Kansas Masons and 170 Lodges across the state. For more information, please visit kansasmason.org.
Help to expand Masonic philanthropy within our state by donating to the Kansas Masonic Foundation.
