Ann Ittoop Fabiana Lowe [email protected] [email protected] 704 525 3937 ext 125 813 281 7164

MYTH: International is an organization just for men.

FACT: While it is true women aren’t official members of the Shriners fraternity, they play a vital role in the organization. The First Lady of Shriners International is instrumental in promoting for Shriners Hospitals for Children through her fundraising program. There are also several groups for women that support the fraternity and philanthropy, which include: Daughters of the Nile, Ladies Oriental Shrine of North America, Shrine Guilds of America, Inc. and Order of the Eastern Star.

Organizations for children and young people include: DeMolay International, Job’s Daughters International and the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls.

MYTH: Shriners International is a religious organization.

FACT: Shriners are not affiliated with any one particular religion and there is no requirement to follow a particular faith. MYTH: Shriners International is a secret society.

FACT: Throughout history, both the Freemasons and Shriners have had a reputation for secrecy, but the mission of Shriners International is straightforward. Shriners are committed to:  Fun, fellowship and philanthropy  Providing quality programs and services for their members, families, friends and community in a spirit of fun and camaraderie.  Welcoming others to join their mission of serving their official philanthropy, Shriners Hospitals for Children

MYTH: Shriners International is a Middle Eastern organization.

FACT: While near Eastern in theme, the first temples (chapter), Mecca Shriners, actually started in in 1872. As word got out about the fledgling organization, membership grew rapidly, spreading across the U.S. Shriners International is a fraternity based on fun, fellowship and the Masonic principles of brotherly love, relief and truth. There are approximately 310,000 members in 194 temples (chapters) in the , , , , the , Puerto Rico and the Republic of Panama. MYTH: You have to be born into being a Shriner.

FACT: If you hold the title of Master Mason in , you qualify and are invited to join the Shriners. If you are not a Freemason, you must pursue that by getting a virtual mentor on www.beashrinernow.com, who will assist you. Once you are a Master Mason you are eligible to petition to become a Shriner. In order to become a Shriner you must ask a current Shriner to support and sponsor your application.

MYTH: Shriners International is only for men who are older.

FACT: Shriners International boasts a rich membership of men of all ages. Racecar driver Sam Hornish Jr. and country music star are among the ranks of young men who proudly call themselves Shriners. Visit www.beashrinernow.com for more information.

MYTH: Shriners International is only for prominent men.

FACT: While there are members of the fraternity who are prominent figures, Shriners International welcomes men of integrity from all walks of life.