The Masonic Foundation of Alberta is a charitable organization based in Alberta, Canada, established to support the charitable activities of Freemasons throughout the province and to promote the profile of Freemasonry within local communities. Its core mission is to encourage, stimulate, and provide financial assistance to various Masonic Lodges that have identified specific charitable projects, often matching the funds raised by these Lodges for registered charities. Additionally, the Foundation identifies and directly funds worthy charitable initiatives, particularly those focused on helping young people, which can be either long-term or short-term programs[1][5].

Founded in 1991, the Foundation arose from a committee dedicated to establishing a Masonic charitable entity in Alberta. It serves also as a vehicle for issuing tax receipts for donations, thereby encouraging contributions by maximizing tax advantages for donors. Funds can be allocated to specific charities at the donor’s request, ensuring support is directed according to the donors’ wishes. Over recent years, approximately $50,000 has been raised through individual contributions and collections from Districts and individual Lodges, reflecting active engagement within the Masonic community[5].

The Foundation's activities contribute to the broader history and community presence of Freemasonry in Alberta, a region with a rich Masonic heritage dating back to the late 19th century, when the first Masonic Lodges were established under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Manitoba prior to Alberta attaining provincial status in 1905. This heritage involves a vibrant tradition of Freemasonry deeply interwoven with local history and community development[2][3][4].

Overall, the Masonic Foundation of Alberta plays a significant role in fostering charitable endeavors connected with Freemasonry and enhancing the positive impact of Masonic values and community involvement across Alberta.

[1] https://masonicfoundationofalberta.ca [2] https://masonicshop.com/masonic-articles/article/?a=183 [3] https://freemasons.ab.ca/history-of-grand-lodge-of-alberta/ [4] https://www.yeoldecraft196.com/history-alberta [5] https://freemasons.ab.ca/abfm/ABF199902.pdf