In 2024, Ivanhoe Lodge No. 446 played a pivotal role in providing more than $18,000 to support the Honor Flight Network of Kansas City, ensuring local veterans could travel to Washington, D.C., to visit the memorials built in their honor.
Founded in 2005, Honor Flight is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing veterans to the nation’s capital to reflect, remember, and share their experience with fellow service members. These trips give veterans the chance to honor their fallen comrades, connect with others who served, and experience a deeply meaningful moment of recognition.
Bringing a Vision to Life through Community Collaboration
Inspired by his grandfather’s military service, Brother Mason Sewing of Ivanhoe Lodge helped lead the inaugural Kansas City-wide BBQ Competition in May 2024, rallying support from across the region to raise funds for Honor Flight.
In total, 10 different Lodges came together, along with dozens of community members, to make the event a success. Through the Masonic Home’s Partnering To Honor Program, the money raised was matched, bringing the total $18,000. These funds helped cover the cost of two buses for Honor Flight participants, lunch and dinner, a park police escort, and several veteran flights.
The event’s success set the stage for the second annual Kansas City BBQ Competition, held on May 31, 2025, further strengthening the partnership between area Lodges and Honor Flight.
Ivanhoe Lodge set out to exceed its previous goal in 2025. Not only did they accomplish that, but they surpassed it.
The Lodge more than doubled their success of the inaugural year, providing a total of $45,000 after the Masonic Home match to support the Honor Flight Network of Kansas City.
Through this growing annual tradition, the Lodge has deepened its connection to the community and demonstrated the power of collective giving, setting a strong example that continues to inspire other Lodges and Chapters across the state to get involved and lead with purpose.
Veterans on the Honor Flight gather for a group photo in front of the Washington Monument during their visit to Washington, D.C.
A Lasting Impact on Veterans
According to Scott Sheridan, President of the Honor Flight Network of Kansas City, the dedication shown by Ivanhoe Lodge and the broader Masonic Community made a real difference.
“…the support is invaluable! Not only do community partners like Ivanhoe Lodge spread the word about what Honor Flight is, but the funds raised ensure that Veterans make it to see their memorials,” Scott said.
For many veterans, the trip is emotional from beginning to end. Upon returning to Kansas City, they were greeted by cheering crowds of family, friends, and community members. Many hold signs, wave flags, and welcome them home with gratitude.
“I cannot tell you how many tears of joy are shed during these trips, especially when they come home to the big crowds at the airport that are there to thank them and welcome them home,” Scott said.
A veteran’s family proudly welcomes him home from the 2024 Kansas City Honor Flight, waving signs and flags after his trip to Washington, D.C., to visit his memorial.
Make a Difference in Your Community
Your Lodge or Chapter — no matter the size — can make a meaningful impact.
Through the Masonic Home’s Partnering To Honor Program, every dollar counts. Even small donations can grow into significant support for Missouri veterans when matched by the Masonic Home. For many Lodges, especially smaller ones, this match is what turns a simple fundraiser into something truly transformative.
Your Lodge or Chapter can raise funds to support the Honor Flight Network, assemble care packages, or help stock clothing pantries for veterans and active-duty service members.
When we each do what we can — big or small — we honor our veterans and strengthen our communities. Together, we can ensure that every act of generosity goes further and helps those who have served us all.
