2024 Battle Within Fundraising Gala

As New York Masons, we are proud to support many charities, some of which you may be familiar with like the Shriners hospitals and toys for tots. We believe that every man (and woman) can-and should- step into their best self and make a difference in the lives of others.

In the past 40+ years, since the end of the Vietnam War, we have lost more American heroes due to suicide than all foreign wars and conflicts in that time period combined. Despite the very best efforts of family, friends, the VA, and scores of highly dedicated veteran-based organizations, approximately 20 veterans each day are lost to us due to complications from wounds and injuries we cannot see.

That’s 7200 brave men and women a year who volunteered, stood on the yellow footprints and swore an oath to God to protect and defend our country. They proved this commitment, many seeing and experiencing the unimaginable in our name. Unfortunately, they made it through one war, only to come home to fight another.

The Brothers of Harmonie Lodge No. 699 O.M. had their Damascus Road moment when this ongoing tragedy personally touched them. Many other brothers across this state have also felt the same impacts in their personal lives. We could not simply let this continue without stepping up.

To better understand the cause and effect of PTSD, The Battle Within Foundation announced a first-round $25,000 donation to the Masonic Medical Research Institute (MMRI). This initial contribution will be used to enable the expansion of their neurocognitive disorder research. The funds garnered for the donation were collected from tributes made directly to BWF in memory of Lady Joanne Kessler, the wife of MW Richard J. Kessler, the Grand Master of New York State Masons.

Through the Battle Within Foundation Gala, taking place Memorial Day week on Thursday May 30th, we hope to raise an additional $25,000 in support of the research being done around PTSD. If successful, we hope to make this an annual event.