Based upon the National Masonic Model, the Masonic Student Assistance Program (MSAP) had its beginnings in Arizona in 1996. Sessions were held in the peaceful solitude of the beautiful pines of Prescott, Arizona but due to the demand for more training sessions training is now being conducted in local areas. Phoenix and Tucson are currently the main sites. We are working to develop sites in other areas that can support a class of 60 or more attendees. The days are pretty well filled with session activities. All session costs, including trainers and food are paid for by the Arizona Masonic Foundation for Children.

   Bikes 4 Books is a program designed to promote the reading skills and desires to read of lower elementary grade school (Grades 1-4) students. It offers students from the lower elementary grades an opportunity to find, read and report on books they read in an effort to receive a free bicycle from the local Masonic Lodge. This program is in conjunction with and the cooperation of the local schools, teachers and Masons. Contact the Lodge Secretary for additional information on how to join us in this very worthwhile program.

   The Arizona Child Identification Program addresses the alarming fact that more children are reported missing each year. While most are found, many are not. All of the identification materials generated by the program are given to the child's family. The Lodge retains none of the information offered by this program. This CHIP program is offered to the public at no charge. Contact the Lodge Secretary for additional information on how to join us in this very worthwhile program. Any Masonic Brother with an interest in bringing this program to the Nogales schools should contact the Lodge Secretary. By the way, this is a program that wives and Eastern Star Ladies can participate in.