For Fulton Chapter #35, O.E.S., 2025 marked a first; their very first time participating in the Masonic Home of Missouri’s Creating-A-Partnership (CAP) Program.
What began as an idea to support a local therapeutic riding center grew into a story of generosity, teamwork, and the realization that even small chapters can make a big difference.
Cedar Creek Therapeutic Riding Center provides horseback riding for children and adults with mental or physical disabilities. The organization operates entirely through private support, without state or federal funding. When members of Fulton Chapter heard about the work Cedar Creek was doing, they knew it would be a good project.
“One of our members’ sons rides there, and I knew other families whose children had benefited too. It just felt right to help,” Sister Sue Davis, Chapter Secretary and 30-year member, said.
Fulton Chapter #35 members visited Cedar Creek Therapeutic Riding Center and met some of the horses. Pictured (left to right): Karen Grindler of Cedar Creek, Sister Sue Davis, and Sister Orvella Wright.
Turning an Idea Into Action
After learning about other Lodges and Chapters that had participated in the CAP program, Fulton Chapter #35 decided to get involved.
“It sounded like something we could do to give back to our community, and this was our first chance to try it,” Sue said.
With most of their members being older or homebound, Fulton Chapter #35 knew a large fundraising event was not an option. Instead, they hosted a silent no-bake bake sale. This meant mailing letters to homebound members asking for donations. They also collected change and small bills at the end of each meeting.
They raised $530, which the Masonic Home of Missouri matched through CAP, tripling their impact to nearly $1,600. The funds helped Cedar Creek purchase new safety helmets for its riders, which is a critical need for the center’s participants.
One of Cedar Creek Therapeutic Riding Center’s horses.
For Sister Sue and her Chapter, the most meaningful moment of this experience came during the check presentation.
“To see the look on her face, the woman who runs Cedar Creek, it was priceless,” Sister Sue said. “She’s kept that program going for years on her own, and we were able to give her a little help to keep making a difference.”
Fulton Chapter #35 presents its CAP donation to Cedar Creek Therapeutic Riding Center, supporting new helmets for riders. Pictures (left to right): Sister Liz Musgrove, Karen Grindler of Cedar Creek Therapeutic Riding Center, Sister Orvella Wright, and Sister Sue Davis.
Discovering the Power of Partnership
Even as first-time participants, Fulton Chapter #35 found the CAP process smooth and encouraging. Several members had experience with other Chapters that had used CAP, which helped guide the Chapter through the steps.
“Once we started the application process, we realized how easy it was,” Sue said.
The experience showed them that making a difference does not always start with a large fundraiser; it begins with dedication and community spirit.
“We realized we didn’t have to do a big fundraiser to make an impact,” Sister Sue said. “It’s about community stepping up. That’s what the Masonic Family has always stood for.”
Sister Sue said this partnership with the Masonic Home of Missouri will not be Fulton Chapter #35’s last. The experience reminded them of the power of small acts and how communities can come together to fill local needs. Now, having seen what is possible, she hopes more Lodges and Chapters will follow their lead by participating in CAP.
“Just do it,” Sue said. “Find an underserved group in your community and give it a try. Even if you only raised a few hundred dollars, the Masonic Home match can turn that into something much bigger, and that money can make a real difference for someone who needs it.”
For Fulton Chapter #35, what began as a first step became a lasting example of how together, Lodges, Chapters, and the Masonic Home of Missouri can make an impact across Missouri.
