Andrew Keech
Digital Donations (QR codes)
Every Lodge with a relief chest can accept digital donations, more commonly referred to as QR codes. Incorporating the QR code within the summons and / or briefing notes will enable all Lodge members to donate alms before the meeting. Naturally these things take time to get used to so for now we recommend encouraging members to try the system alongside traditional gift aid envelopes or collection plates. Ultimately though this system reduces administration for all, particularly the Lodge charity steward and is one less thing to worry about on the night. Refresher information was sent to all relief chest representatives last month so please take a look and ensure your Lodge secretary has the relevant information. Any questions please let me know.
Seminars
We are running two zoom based charity seminars on Tuesday 22nd and Tuesday 29th March 2022 at 7pm. Topics to be discussed will include:-
2022 Festival
Role of a charity steward
Working with the MCF
Digital donations / QR codes
Charity accounts
Fundraising ideas
The Provincial Grand Master will join us for both sessions, together with a representative from the MCF and we really hope every Lodge will be represented across the sessions. If you have not already booked in, please email me to choose your preferred session.
Annual returns
Thanks to many of you for submitting your annual charity return; the information is very important to understand the total funds donated within the Province. Can I please encourage the final 9 Lodges to send me details of any donations made during 2021, thank you.
Charity donations
I am always pleased to receive recommendations for charities to support with a financial grant. If there is a charity you’d like the committee to consider please send me details here.
Andrew Keech
Provincial Charity Steward
charity@oxfordshirefreemasons.org