John Thurston, the Deputy PGM, presented a certificate to Crossroads Care, marking a grant of £1000 from the Masonic Charitable Foundation.
“I was accompanied by Keith Ward Left), the current master of Vale of Castiard Lodge which, coincidentally, will also be donating their tercentenary £300 to the charity, to be match-funded by GMCA.” Meeting at the Forest Of Dean Crossroads – Caring For Carers centre in Cinderford with Chris Creswick, the Chairman, and Pam Graham, the Chief Exec, they all had a good chat over coffee. “It was good to see Chris again,” said John. “I know him from old as we have been on boards together. So it presented an opportunity to discuss the development and plans for both Crossroads Care and Freemasonry.” MCF grant to Crossroads Care.
“I know Pam will want to thank you on behalf of Crossroads, but I’d like to add my thanks too,” wrote Chris Creswick after the visit. “Thanks also to you and Keith for finding the time to come to Cinderford. As I said, the financial support that the Freemasons have given us over the years is hugely appreciated, not only for the direct contribution it makes towards our charitable services in the Forest of Dean, but because it helps us to demonstrate to our staff, our commissioners and our other funders that our work is appreciated more widely in our community.
“Thank you too for describing some of the changes that the Freemasons have made both nationally and locally. That was not only very interesting, but very impressive in terms of fundraising, organisational change and development. I wish you and your colleagues in the county and elsewhere every success in your continuing work.” Dementia Action Alliance “We also talked about the Dementia Alliance, which is in partnership with Crossroads and to which GMCA have recently given a grant towards a new Dementia Awareness board game. “It may seem like there are wheels within wheels and I suppose that’s actually the case, said John. That all enables better support, however, to our communities and enhances the reputation of Freemasonry. I sincerely believe we are a well-regarded and a respected organisation.”
(Photos Keith Ward)