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What is the RFBI ?
The Royal Freemasons’ Benevolent Institution was founded in 1880. Freemasons believe in making the world a better place for all. Charity is a primary activity which Masons value. (See “What is Freemasonry” … click here)
The RFBI is the second-oldest benevolent institution formed in NSW to assist and support people in need.
Note that any needy person can receive help from the RFBI.
We assist people– whether or not they are Masons - whatever their origins or religious beliefs.
The founders expressed our philosophy like this:
“For the sake of the poor - of our own obligations - and of the credit of the Order, it is hoped that a generous and universal support will be accorded to an Institution whose function will be to provide succour in distress and relief in necessity.”
RFBI Retirement Villages
- In recent years, the RFBI has extended its support and benevolence activities by providing retirement accommodation and lifestyle care facilities in village communities around NSW and the ACT.
- Today there are 22 RFBI villages. All are well regarded for their high standard of affordable attractive accommodation.
- All are staffed by friendly, sincere carers.
- All are fully accredited in every aspect of their operations by the Department of Health and Ageing.
We provide for your lifestyle
RFBI Retirement Village accommodation is designed to suit individual needs
- Self-care housing and apartments or units where aged persons who are still active can maintain their independence in a comfortable, secure lifestyle
- Hostels where friendly capable staff provide for the daily needs of those who require some care but who may not need continuous nursing supervision
- Nursing homes with professional medical facilities for people who, for reasons of infirmity, illness or disability require a higher level of nursing care.
Ask any of the 21,000 Freemasons in New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory this question, and you’ll probably get 21,000 different answers!
Freemasonry means different things to each member.
- Some would say it’s a personal development program which promotes family and community values.
- Others would describe Freemasonry as a chance for both social interaction and "philosophical brainstorming".
- Freemasonry also provides an opportunity for public service, and hands-on involvement in charitable or community issues.
The short answer to the question, "What is Freemasonry" is that it’s one of the world’s oldest and largest fraternal organisations.
Made up of 5 million Freemasons around the world, it has adopted the
fundamental principles of integrity, goodwill, and charity as foundations
for an individual’s life and character.
- So, a Freemason strives to be moral and ethical.
- He strives to show justice, act honourably and be loyal.
- A Freemason teaches and practices concern for people.
- He cares for the less fortunate, and helps those in need.
- And all this is done irrespective of cultural or ethnic background.
- Irrespective of religious beliefs.
- And irrespective of any differences in social standing or education.
RFBI OBJECTIVES
To provide varying kinds of retirement accommodation within a village environment to suit citizens' individual needs.
Such accommodation ranges from self-care units in which residents can live an independent life, to hostels where staff cater for daily needs, to care in nursing homes with professional medical facilities.
To enter into partnerships and joint ventures with communities, governments, religious, masonic and other charitable and service organisations to promote and effect community projects for retired citizens.
To grant special relief to citizens with emergency and or special needs via the Benevolent Assistance Scheme.
To make special grants and or assistance to charitable entities via the Benevolent Assistance Scheme.
To help needy aged men and women by regular monthly grants when the need is determined and approved.
TODAY "CARING" MEANS
Enhancing the residents' self image by further development of independence and individuality.
Encouraging the residents to take advantage of the opportunities available in retirement.
Assisting residents to adjust to the new social experience of living together in a community, as distinct from private housing.
Compensating residents for their declining ability to freely participate in their environment.
Reducing the fears commonly associated with ageing.