The dream of a freestanding school for children suffering from the learning disability of dyslexia has been realized in Central Texas. Children from throughout the Valley of Austin have gone from "learning-impaired" to productive students, thanks to the Scottish Rite-developed learning program. Classes are available, free of charge, to any dyslexic child, regardless of race or financial circumstance. Our Learning Center is located at 508 W. 14th Street, and the phone is (512)472-1231.

Austin Masonic Theatre and Museum, Inc.

The newest and most ambitious project of the Austin Scottish Rite Bodies is to bring our historic building at 18th and Lavaca Streets into the twenty-first century as a monument to Freemasonry in Texas' capital city.

Built in 1871-72, our building predates the Texas Capitol and is the oldest legitimate theatre in Austin. Since 1910, the building has served as home to the Nobles of Ben Hur Shrine Temple, Hill City Lodge 456, University Lodge 1190. Ruh Neb Temple, Daughters of the Nile, Travis Chapter, Order of Eastern Star and Stephen F. Austin Chapter, Order of DeMolay also meet in the Scottish Rite Temple.

Over the past few years, the ground floor dining room was renovated and the theatre has received a thorough restoration at the hands of the former Capitol Architect Alan McCree. The theatre and lobby areas are in great demand for public and private events, giving the non-Masonic visitor a positive image of our great fraternity. In addition, an ever expanding collection and display of historic artifacts in the Temple compliment the central Masonic theme: "Let There Be Light!"

Scottish Rite Educational Foundation (The Scottish Rite Dormitory)

Since 1922, the Scottish Rite Dormitory, adjacent to the campus of the University of Texas at Austin, has served as the home-away-from-home for thousands of daughters of Masons, as well as young women sponsored without financial obligation by Texas Blue Lodge Masons. The modern, yet gracious, facilities speak well of Texas Scottish Rite's dedication to higher education.

The Almoner's Fund

Charity is the great virtue of mankind. The Scottish Rite practices this virtue through our Almoner's Fund. At each meeting of the Bodies, in the annual dues statement, and through bequests and other gifts, the Almoner's Fund is remembered. Monies collected go directly to those who are in real distress. Not one cent of the fund goes for administrative cost, and recipients are screened for need.

Scottish Rite Children's Hospital

The "crown jewel" of Texas Scottish Rite philanthropies is the Scottish Rite Children's Hospital in Dallas. Originally a "crippled children's" hospital, the facility continues its role in orthopedic treatment and research, while meeting the challenge of other childhood and adult disabilities. Dyslexia and learning disability programs designed by the Scottish Rite Children's Hospital are in use throughout the nation.

The Scottish Rite Foundation, Inc.

While in Waco, Scottish Rite Masons should visit the Lee Lockwood Library and Museum. Named in honor of Past Grand Master of Masons in Texas and Sovereign Grand Inspector General of Scottish Rite Masons in Texas, the late Ill.: Robert Lee Lockwood, the magnificent facility houses an extensive library and museum of Texas and Masonic memorabilia. In addition, the Scottish Rite foundation, Inc. provides numerous scholarships to graduatestudentss in various academic fields.

The above Scottish Rite charitable entities are covered under Internal Revenue Sect. 501-C3, whereby donations are deductible to the full extent of the law. They may also be included as self-directed contributions for participants in the United Way program. Should you have questions about the tax implications of your gift, please call the Business Office at (512)472-7247 or toll-free at (800)754-3079.