The "Playground for the Fraternity's Doers"

was the headlined description that appeared in the August 1929 issue of Moose Magazine.

Little did editor Don Stewart know the positive impact these 'Fraternal Doers' would have on the Moose programs during the next seventy years of the Twentieth Century.

In 1913 Director General James J. Davis spearheaded a movement to organize this special group of Lodge members as the "Mooseheart Legion" with only one membership requirement -- be a good standing Moose member with a desire to do just a little more for the fraternity.

Today, that straightforward requirement is still in effect -- and the impact of Moose Legionnaires' deeds is even more impressive. The original purpose of this charter group of 'doers' was to raise a $1 million Endowment Fund. This "Million-Dollar Fund" became a reality in 1938, and has continued to grow many times over - thanks in part to the continued efforts of members of the Degree of Service.

But, this primary objective was not enough. The purchase of Mooseheart's first dairy herd was the Moose Legion's initial endeavor, and, Loyalty Hall became the first major building-fundraising project in 1914. In 1922, Moosehaven became a reality only when the members of the Second Degree funded the purchase of property in Orange Park, FL and for fully 20 years, the Moose Legion undertook financial responsibility for the campus as it became established as the fraternity's "City of Contentment" for our senior members in need. More recently, since 1991, Moose Legionnaires have (through the Moosehaven Seniors' Medical Fund) funded all expenses for the Moosehaven residents' outside medical care.

Since 1960 Moosehearts Camp Ross (60 miles west of Mooseheart) has been developed, maintained and improved solely through support by Moose Legion units. Among other buildings and renovation projects with which the Degree of Service has assisted include the House of God in 1950, the Mooseheart elementary and high school building in 1954, the Mooseheart swimming pool in 1965, and the Paul J. O'Hollaren Centre in 1997. Today Moose Legionnaires are helping to fund the Moosehaven LifeCare Center, and, have additionally accepted the responsibility of renovating the House of God during the 50th anniversary (1950-2000) of this Mooseheart landmark Even with this heavy load the Moose Legion has helped to institute new Lodges, build and remodel Lodge homes, purchase furniture and supplies, and, worked diligently to make their communities a safer, healthier place to live. Since 1913 these 'doers' have more than lived up to their enrollment pledge of 'doing some good thing for someone each day'. And for 87 years, the Moose Legionnaires' playground has been wherever they gather. In the Lodge, at Conventions, and Celebrations, theyve made sure that one very important ingredient was added to make all their efforts worthwhile they've had FUN!