Trinity Justice Unity Lodge of Egg Harbor Township recently celebrated a significant milestone, announcing that its educational scholarship program has awarded more than $1 million to students pursuing higher education since its inception.
The scholarship program traces its roots to 1948, when Justice Lodge member Harry Hoffman established a fund to help fellow lodge members send their children to college. With support from other members, Hoffman collected voluntary contributions that were maintained separately from the lodge treasury.
Over the following decade, the program expanded throughout the 23rd Masonic District. In 1987, proceeds from the sale of the Atlantic City Masonic Temple helped further strengthen the fund when Justice Lodge contributed $100,000 to establish an official educational trust. The Internal Revenue Service approved the trust that same year, and the Justice Lodge No. 285 F&AM Educational Trust was formally established on July 16, 1987.
The trust’s original trustees included Harry Hoffman, Frank Seidel, Max Landsman, Marvin Rimm, Marvin Davidson, Dean Scarpa and Bruce Peskoe.
Since its creation, the trust has continued to grow through donations and community support, providing scholarships to students pursuing college and advanced degrees.
This year, the trust awarded a total of $60,000 in scholarships to three recipients:
Olivia Carlton — $30,000
Emily Santos — $15,000
Emma Preissman — $15,000
“This is only one part of our mission,” said Brian P. Hurley, senior warden of the lodge. “As Masons, we strive to make a positive impact in our communities and encourage others to be the change they wish to see in the world.”
Justice Lodge has since merged its membership and educational trust into Trinity Justice Unity Lodge No. 79. Lodge leaders say the organization remains committed to the principles of Freemasonry while helping members develop leadership skills, character and community involvement.
Trinity Justice Unity Lodge No. 79 welcomes men ages 18 and older who are interested in learning more about Freemasonry and its charitable initiatives.
The lodge is located at 563 Zion Road in Egg Harbor Township and also offers a banquet hall and commercial kitchen available for community use.
For more information, call 609-927-7979 or visit BeAFreemason.org.
