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The Absalom
Jones Foundation (AJF) was founded and Incorported in 1996 as part
of the vision of PMWGM Thomas Jackmon. The Foundation received IRS
501c3 nonprofit tax-exempt status January 16, 1997 that enables
the MWPHGL to receive tax-deductible contributions. Recent Charitable
Involvements include:
Youth Festival
Hurricane Katrina relief Effort
The primary mission of the AJF is patterned after
the life and legacy of Absalom Jones, the first MWGM of the MWPHGL,
F&AM of PA, "to improve the quality of life for those in
need". The foundation carries out it's mission via:
- · Philanthropic Projects
- · Youth Programs
- · Education/Training Scholarship
- · Economic Development
- · Community Development
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Each director shall be a citizen of the United States of America
and shall be at least 18 years of age.
No less than fifteen (15) and no more than thirty-one (31) persons.
There are currently 28 members, Twenty-seven (27) Master Masons
and one female member from the Order of Eastern Star
OFFICERS
Chairman of the Board - Michael Watson
President & Chief Executive Officer - Errol Shorter
Executive Vice President - George Simmons
Executive Vice President - Larry C. Woods
Treasurer - Roland K. Lee, Sr.
Secretary - Charles A. Bishop
Assistant Secretary - Donald C. Jones
CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE
The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development awarded
a $99,410 Economic Development Initiative grant to the Absalom Jones
Foundation to be used to make economic development related physical
improvements to the Masonic Temple, 4301 North Broad Street, Philadelphia,
PA. 19140.
- · To restore two deteriorated porches
- · Purchase replacement equipment and perform associated
incidental repairs to the kitchen
- · Purchased architectural services to provide interior
and exterior sketches
- · General project administration
Upon receipt of the assessed needs, AJF can request similar funding
for 1117 Woods Street. In support of this and future development
activities the Foundation has developed a Property Development Workshop
Series that is willing to train Prince Hall Family members throughout
the Commonwealth in the following areas
Venture selection Legal issues
Construction delivery systems Zoning
Programming Communications
Organizational structure Decision-making
Financing Preparation of solicitations of proposals
Open lines of communication have been established and the
Foundation will keep members of the Prince Hall Family informed
by:
- · Submitting regular articles to the Light Magazine;
- · When permitted or upon request, make presentations
at Masonic and Eastern Star regional District Meetings;
- . When appropriate, holding at least one Board Meeting open
to all members of the Prince Hall Family; and
. E-mailing relevant information to members of the Prince Hall
Family.
Additional suggestions regarding ways to increase the participation
of members of the Prince Hall Family with the Foundation are welcome.
If you are interested in becoming a Board Member (Male and Female),
please forward a letter and background information to:
Absalom Jones Foundation
PO Box 27181
Philadelphia, PA. 19118
Or
Place in our mail slot at 4301 North Broad Street, Phila., PA
Committee Membership
Any member of the Prince Hall Family can become a committee member
Contact Errol Shorter, President
215-880-4715
ErrolShorter@Comcast.net
United Way Contribution #12395
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