Building Hope Together: Masons, Eastern Stars, Habitat for Humanity & Way FM 88.1 Unite in West Palm Beach
On a warm Saturday morning, October 18, 2025, a powerful example of unity and purpose unfolded at 712 6th Street in West Palm Beach, Florida. What started as a simple day of service became a meaningful story of collaboration, compassion, and community upliftment. The Walter Johnson Jr. Masonic Lodge No. 765, under the protection of the Most Worshipful Union Grand Lodge, Prince Hall Affiliated, proudly joined forces with Habitat for Humanity of the Palm Beaches, Way FM 88.1, and the dedicated women of OES Valentine Chapter No. 12 to help refresh and revitalize a local home. The effort brought together brothers, sisters, volunteers, and local supporters in a shared mission: to serve.
A Call to Serve in West Palm Beach
Service lies at the heart of Freemasonry and the Order of the Eastern Star. For the brothers of Walter Johnson Jr. Lodge No. 765 and the sisters of OES Valentine Chapter No. 12, this wasn’t just another community event—it was a calling. The opportunity to partner with a nationally respected organization like Habitat for Humanity, supported by the outreach and positivity of Way FM 88.1, made this an ideal moment to live out the values of charity, brotherhood, and civic responsibility.
From 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM, volunteers came prepared—with tools in hand, matching shirts, and a shared determination. The task was simple on paper: clean, paint, and renew a home in the heart of West Palm Beach. But the true goal went deeper—uplifting a local family, restoring dignity, and building hope where it was needed most.
A Home with Heart
The house at 712 6th Street is more than just wood and concrete—it is home to a family with a story, a dream, and a future. Over time, the wear and tear of life had taken its toll. Cracked paint, a tired exterior, and neglected landscaping made the house appear forgotten. But on this day, all of that changed.
Volunteers worked diligently, splitting into teams to cover tasks like pressure washing, painting exterior walls and trim, landscaping, and light repairs. Buckets of paint, rollers, and brushes were passed around like tools of transformation. Ladders leaned against walls, and laughter filled the air. The smell of fresh paint became the scent of renewal.
For many of the participants, this was their first time working on a Habitat for Humanity project. But the coordination was seamless. Habitat staff and site leaders provided direction, ensuring that everyone had a role and the resources to get the job done safely and effectively.
Powered by Partnership
One of the most remarkable aspects of this event was the partnership itself. Each group brought something valuable to the table:
Walter Johnson Jr. Lodge No. 765 offered not only manpower but a legacy of service and brotherhood within the community.
OES Valentine Chapter No. 12 brought a strong and graceful presence, demonstrating the Eastern Star’s unwavering commitment to charity and community uplift.
Habitat for Humanity of the Palm Beaches brought logistical experience, coordination, and deep roots in transforming lives through housing.
Way FM 88.1, a local Christian radio station known for its community engagement, provided on-site support, encouragement, and helped amplify the spirit of the day.
Together, these organizations showed what can happen when different parts of the community come together—not for recognition, but for impact.
A Legacy of Leadership
This mission of service was carried out under the protection of the Most Worshipful Union Grand Lodge,
Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity Free & Accepted Masons of Florida, Belize, Central America & Jurisdiction, Inc, Prince Hall Affiliated, led by The Honorable Gus Harris, 20th Most Worshipful Grand Master.
Being part of this legacy of leadership meant something to everyone involved. It reminded participants that their efforts were part of a larger, historical tradition of making a difference—one act of service at a time.
For many of the younger volunteers and new Masons present, it was a chance to connect with that legacy and see what “brotherly love, relief, and truth” looks like in action.
More Than a Fresh Coat of Paint
While the home at 712 6th Street now shines brighter with its refreshed exterior, the real transformation was in the hearts of those who gave their time and effort. Homeowners expressed gratitude. Neighbors stopped by to watch, thank volunteers, and learn more about the project. Some even asked how they could get involved next time.
This was more than a workday—it was a moment of connection. People who may have never crossed paths stood side by side, painting, laughing, sweating, and serving a shared mission.
It was a reminder that meaningful change doesn’t always require grand gestures. Sometimes, all it takes is showing up, doing the work, and putting love into every brushstroke.
Looking Forward
As the final tools were packed away and the freshly painted home glowed in the afternoon sun, one thing was clear: this event was a success. Not just because of what was built or painted, but because of what was shared—fellowship, purpose, and the drive to uplift others.
And this is just the beginning.
The Walter Johnson Jr. Masonic Lodge No. 765, OES Valentine Chapter No. 12, and their partners are committed to continuing this work. Whether it's through more Habitat builds, school supply drives, food distributions, or mentoring programs, this event has reignited a powerful energy for giving back.
Final Thanks
To all who participated, supported, or simply shared words of encouragement: thank you. Your involvement made a difference.
And to the community of West Palm Beach, especially those in and around 6th Street—you are seen, valued, and supported.
We serve under the protection of the Most Worshipful Union Grand Lodge,
Prince Hall Affiliated,
The Honorable Gus Harris, 20th Most Worshipful Grand Master—and we look forward to continuing to serve with integrity, compassion, and unity.
