Russ Hennings, 32°
Wise Master
As Masons, we are called to embody the principles of charity, compassion, and community service. One of the ways we live these values in the Valley of Orange County is through our unwavering support of the RiteCare Childhood Language Center (CLC) of Orange County. This incredible organization, in partnership with Chapman University, has a long-standing history of providing life-changing speech and language therapy services to children in need—services that are made possible, in large part, through your generous donations.
The 19 RiteCare Childhood Language Centers across California, including our very own Orange County location, are dedicated to helping children overcome speech and language disorders that can impact their ability to communicate effectively. These services give children the tools they need to succeed academically and socially, empowering them to thrive in all aspects of life. The impact of these programs cannot be overstated; they give children a voice—literally and figuratively—and open doors to a brighter future.
What makes the Orange County CLC truly special is its collaboration with Chapman University. The partnership between our CLC and Chapman’s Communication Sciences and Disorders Program provides tremendous benefits not only for the children who receive care but also for the graduate students training to become licensed speech-language pathologists (SLPs). This partnership creates a unique environment where education, service, and philanthropy converge to deliver the best possible outcomes for both the children and the students.
For the Children:
Through our collective support, the children who come to the RiteCare CLC receive individualized and comprehensive speech and language therapy services at no cost to their families. These services are critical for children who struggle with communication delays or disorders, allowing them to participate fully in their education and social lives. Whether it’s a child learning to express themselves for the first time, gaining confidence in their communication, or improving their academic performance, the work being done at the CLC is life changing.
Our donations help fund the resources necessary for these therapies, from state-of-the-art equipment to the best- trained professionals. Because of this support, families who might not otherwise have access to quality speech and language services are given hope—and their children, a brighter future.
For the Students:
The partnership with Chapman University also provides invaluable benefits to the graduate students enrolled in the Communication Sciences and Disorders Program. Under the guidance of licensed professionals, these students work hands-on with children at the CLC, applying the knowledge and skills they learn in the classroom to real-world situations. This practical experience is essential in helping these future SLPs develop the expertise needed to work in a clinical setting.
In turn, these students bring a fresh perspective, innovative ideas, and the latest research to the table, ensuring that the children receiving care benefit from cutting-edge techniques and personalized approaches to therapy. By supporting the CLC, we are not only helping children in the present, but we are also investing in the next generation of speech-language pathologists who will continue to make a difference in the future.
The Role of Our Valley:
As a member of the Valley of Orange County, your contributions directly impact the lives of children and families in our community. The donations we provide to the RiteCare CLC ensure that these essential services remain available to those who need them most. But beyond the financial support, our Valley’s involvement demonstrates our commitment to making a difference in the world around us—one child, one family, and one community at a time.
Through our ongoing efforts, we help these children find their voices, giving them the ability to express themselves and engage with the world in meaningful ways. It is a powerful reminder of the positive change we can make when we work together for the common good.
Moving Forward Together:
As we look ahead, I encourage each of you to continue supporting this vital cause, whether through financial contributions, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness of the incredible work being done at the RiteCare Childhood Language Center of Orange County. Our partnership with Chapman University and our commitment to the children who rely on these services will remain a shining example of the good we can achieve as Masons.
Together, we can ensure that the RiteCare CLC continues to be a beacon of hope for children in need, and we can take pride in knowing that our Valley is part of this transformative work.
If you would like to donate to our CLC, please go to: https://www.casrf.org/orangecounty
