Freemasonry in the Community (FITC) is an exciting, province-wide initiative dedicated to engaging with the public to promote Freemasonry and strengthen the bond between Freemasons and our local community! We’re boosting the visibility and understanding of Freemasonry by diving into a variety of fun and engaging public events and activities.
At the heart of our programme is a commitment to recruit, retain, and retrieve members who share our passion for community, charity, and camaraderie. And guess what? We’re proud to say that we work closely with women Freemasons too! By collaborating together, we celebrate inclusivity and diversity, making our events even more vibrant and welcoming for everyone.
- Recruit: We’re always on the lookout for enthusiastic individuals—both men and women—to join our ranks! By showcasing the joy and benefits of Freemasonry at lively events, we inspire others to become part of our dynamic fraternity.
- Retain: We keep the excitement alive for all our members through continuous engagement in diverse activities. There’s always something happening, ensuring everyone stays connected, involved, and proud to be Freemasons.
- Retrieve: We warmly welcome back those who’ve drifted away. FITC provides the perfect opportunity for past members, both male and female, to rekindle their connection and reignite their passion for Freemasonry.
Our enthusiastic volunteers are the heartbeat of FITC—they love connecting with people and making a real difference. Whether you’re attending events, helping transport equipment, or becoming an Ambassador for Freemasonry, there’s a role that’s perfect for you. Working alongside women Freemasons adds a fantastic dynamic to our team, enriching our experiences and broadening our reach within the community.
It’s a wonderful opportunity for Freemasons and their families to get involved, support their community, and proudly promote the values of Freemasonry together. By teaming up with women Freemasons, we’re not just strengthening our fraternity—we’re embracing a more inclusive future for all.
What events could I attend?
When you dive into FITC, you’ll discover a vibrant array of events happening all year round, catering to people with a wide range of interests. Whether you’re passionate about classic cars, enthusiastic about charity work, or simply love community gatherings, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a glimpse of the diverse events you can be part of:
- Classic Car Shows: Rev up your excitement at events showcasing vintage and classic automobiles. These gatherings are perfect for car enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates automotive history and craftsmanship.
- Hospital Charity Walks: Lace up your trainers for walks like the Ward Walk for Queen Alexandra Hospital. It’s a rewarding way to support vital healthcare services while enjoying the outdoors with fellow community members.
- Festive Celebrations: Join the fun at Christmas lights switch-on events and bring joy to the holiday season. These celebrations are family-friendly and filled with warmth and cheer.
- Community Galas and Festivals: Immerse yourself in local culture at events such as the Portchester Castle Gala. From music to food and crafts, these festivals offer something for every taste.
- Fireworks Displays: Light up your nights at spectacular fireworks events like Guy Fawkes Night. Experience the electrifying atmosphere and connect with people from all walks of life.
- Agricultural and Tasting Events: Indulge in local flavours at the Blackmoor Apple Tasting. Celebrate the harvest and support regional farmers while enjoying delicious produce.
- National Exhibitions:
- The British Motor Show: Engage with the latest innovations and timeless classics in the automotive world.
- The Southampton Boat Show: Dive into maritime excitement, whether you’re a seasoned sailor or simply love the ocean vibe.
- Charity Coffee Mornings: Share a cup and conversation at MacMillan Coffee Mornings. These gatherings are a heartfelt way to support those affected by cancer.
- Hospice Fundraisers: Walk with purpose in events like the Sunflower Walk for Mountbatten Hospice. Show solidarity and support for hospice care in your community.
- Local Fairs and Community Days: Enjoy year-round fun at local fairs, fetes, and community days. From summer picnics to autumn festivals, there’s always an occasion to celebrate together.
These events span every season, ensuring that no matter when you’re available, there’s an opportunity to get involved. The year-round schedule means you can choose events that fit your interests and timetable.
Sounds interesting, how can I get involved?
Getting involved in FiTC is simple:
- Express Your Interest: If you’re keen to volunteer, you should be confident, friendly, and enthusiastic about Freemasonry. Enjoying engaging with the public and discussing the rewards of becoming a Freemason is a big plus. Experience in selling concepts can be beneficial, but it’s not essential.
- Contact Organisers: To officially sign up, forward your name, Masonic rank, area, and any FITC experience (if applicable) to the contacts provided:
- Peter Close at SEA.FITC@HantsIOWMasons.org
- Peter Buchanan at peter@stclaireopals.com
- Volunteer: You can volunteer your time to attend events, transport equipment, or assist with logistics and setting up events. Your role could include being an Ambassador for Freemasonry, operating the Display Trailer and Lite units, or working at Masonic Centres during provincial events.
- Join the Events: Participate in a variety of events such as classic car shows, the British Motor Show, Ward Walk for QA Hospital, Christmas lights, Blackmoor Apple Tasting, Portchester Castle Gala, fireworks displays, MacMillan coffee mornings, the Southampton Boat Show, and the Sunflower Walk for Mountbatten Hospice.
- Bring Along Friends and Family: Area management teams, Light Blues, and wives/partners are especially welcome to join and enjoy the events.
It’s a wonderful way to support your community, promote the values of Freemasonry, and make new connections. If you need more details or have.
Why Attend?
- Connect with a Diverse Community: Meet new people who share your passions and discover different perspectives.
- Explore Varied Interests: With events ranging from automotive shows to charity walks, you can delve into existing hobbies or try something entirely new.
- Make a Positive Impact: Many events support charitable causes, so your participation contributes to meaningful change.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Many events welcome friends and family, making it a perfect opportunity to spend quality time together.
Ready to Get Involved?
Jumping into FITC events is easy and rewarding. Whether you’re keen to volunteer, bring along loved ones, or simply attend and enjoy, your involvement makes a difference.