To celebrate the DeMolay Centennial, PA DeMolay will be counting down 100 memories worth celebrating that took place within the DeMolay Chapters and Jurisdiction of Pennsylvania.
For many years now, members of PA DeMolay have been accustomed to the State Charity being the Children’s Dyslexia Centers, sponsored by the Scottish Rite. When did this start? Here is a little backstory of our history with the Learning Centers.
The Children’s Dyslexia Centers officially became the State Charity at the PA DeMolay Convention in 1999. Starting in 2000, the State Sweetheart has taken on the responsibility of working closely with the State Charity, helping to make the Chapters aware of the Dyslexia Centers and helping motivate the Chapters to donate. Here is a list of some of the known fundraisers that have taken place to benefit the Dyslexia Centers:
- PA DeMolay Sweatshirt sales
- “Not just a Fraternity..but a way of life” T-Shirt sales
- Bake Sales
- Penny Wars
- Soda Can and Soda Tab Collection
- Spaghetti Dinners
- Chicken Pot Pie Dinners
- Sub Sandwich sales
- Charity Poker Tournament
- Raffles and Door Prizes
- Dodgeball for Dyslexia
These are just some of the fundraisers that have taken place over the years. One thing that Chapters were encouraged to do was create a fundraiser for Frank S. Land Memorial Day, with the proceeds going to the State Charity. Chapters still do this to date, and are encouraged to be inventive when thinking of ideas. Some Chapters also do more than just raise money; they participate in walks to help bring awareness to the cause, and even visit their local center. A few PA DeMolays have been a product of the Children’s Dyslexia Centers, making them even more a meaningful cause for our youth.
Until next time - "Dad" Joe Pullin
