The Grand Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star presented OMRF with two checks totaling $49,061.09 at its annual conference at the Scottish Rite Masonic Temple in Guthrie last night.
The donation will fund OMRF research on breast cancer and other diseases, including lupus, heart disease and multiple sclerosis. With this donation, the Eastern Star has now donated a total of $228,915 to OMRF research since 2002, when the Grand Chapter selected OMRF as its charitable beneficiary.
“One of our ideals is helping people and the community,” said Eastern Star Worthy Grand Matron Melissa Griffin of Indiahoma. “The research done at OMRF not only helps us locally, it has a worldwide impact.”
Each year, the Worthy Grand Matron chooses a specific cause and Griffin wants to focus on breast cancer research and awareness.
“I’ve lost a very close friend to breast cancer and known numerous others who have had to deal with the horrible disease,” she said. “Almost everyone knows someone affected by breast cancer. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to find a cure? When we work together to raise money, we’re doing our part to make it happen.”
Eastern Star members support OMRF through individual donations made at chapter meetings statewide. This year they also raised funds through events including a miniature golf tournament, a pink ribbon luncheon and auctions.
“Each year, we are honored by members of the Eastern Star who show such generosity in the fight against disease,” said OMRF Director of Development Ginny Bass Carl. “Their gifts will have a lasting impact, funding research that will ensure brighter, healthier futures for us all.”
The Order of the Eastern Star is the largest fraternal organization in the world to which both men and women may belong. It counts approximately one million members worldwide and is dedicated to furthering charity, education, science and fraternity. It has approximately 10,000 members and more than 100 chapters in Oklahoma, including groups in:
Bartlesville
Blanchard
Broken Arrow
El Reno
Enid
Guthrie
Lawton
McAlester
Muskogee
Woodward
