May 9, 2009 - Free Specialty Pediatric Screening Clinic, courtesy of Shriners Hospital for Children

As one of only a few Masons active in Scouting in our Council, I would like to bring to the council's attention some of the work of Masons who are also Shriners which may benefit the youth of the local community.

The Shriners Hospitals for Children throughout the nation and in Los Angeles provide free specialty pediatric services including but are not limited to pediatric orthopaedic care and other things.

According to Mason and Shriner Mike Powell, President of the Encino Shrine Club:

"The Shriners Hospital for Children screening clinic will be held on Saturday May 9, 2009 from 8 am to 2 pm. at:

San Fernando Masonic Lodge Building
1112 North Maclay
San Fernando, Ca 91340

Hospital professionals (Doctors, Nurses, etc.) will look at local kids to see if they can be helped by us."

There is no charge for the screening. If a child is accepted for health services, there is also no charge for any services provided by the hospital to remediate conditions found at the screening. Shriners, who are a subset of Freemasons, donate substantial financial resources so that children in need (and their families) can utilize the hospital's services without charge.

Particularly but not only in this time of economic uncertainty, and especially with health care beyond reach to many, please circulate this in the Scouting community, particularly but not only in the areas served by our council's Scoutreach division.

Thanks.

David I. Karp, A Mason and a Shriner
Secretary, National Association of Masonic Scouters
Relationships Chair, Western Los Angeles County Council BSA