For First Lady Colleen Johnson, choosing this year’s charitable focus was deeply personal. Her support of the Veterans & First Responders Fund reflects a shared commitment across Ohio Freemasonry to honor the men and women who safeguard our communities every day.
From assisting local fire stations to supporting specialized equipment in veterans’ hospitals, this fund allows Ohio Masons to make a direct, meaningful impact. Colleen’s hope is to shine a brighter light on this resource and inspire lodges across the state to use it in ways that uplift those who serve.
In this Q&A, she shares the heart behind her choice and her vision for the year ahead.
Why did you select the Veterans & First Responders Fund as your First Lady Charity of the Year?
I wanted to give back to the organization, especially in a way that reflects the values we share. The funds raised by Masons are given back to them through charitable work, and the Veterans & First Responders Fund felt like a natural choice for us. Shawn is a veteran, and with the foundation of this fund already established a few years ago, supporting veterans and first responders was something we felt strongly about.
Can you tell us a little bit about the fund and what it does?
The Veterans & First Responders Fund is dedicated to supporting the men and women who keep our communities safe and free. It helps provide needed equipment and supplies for first responders, as well as specialized equipment for patients in veterans’ hospitals. These individuals rarely ask for help, but the work they do is vital. This fund ensures Ohio Freemasons can step in with meaningful support.
My role is to help encourage Masons to think about the needs they see around them. When a lodge knows of a veteran, firefighter, or other first responder who could benefit, they can request support through the Fund. The goal is to get resources directly into the hands of those who serve our communities, whether that means helping a local department or supporting a veterans’ organization.
What is your role within the initiative?
My role is to help raise awareness that this fund exists and to share ways lodges can use it in their communities. I’ve been gathering examples and ideas so Masons feel inspired to take those next steps. One district recently used the fund to help secure medical equipment for an ambulance, a great example of how quickly these resources can make a difference.
Where do you hope this initiative will be one year from now?
I hope that the support raised throughout the year has reached veterans, first responders, and communities in ways that are meaningful and visible. I want people across Ohio to know that it was Masons who stepped forward to help, and to gain a clearer understanding of the kind of charitable work this fraternity has always done.
My hope is that awareness grows, not only of the fund itself, but of the heart and generosity behind it, and that more lodges feel empowered to participate.
What are you most looking forward to this year as First Lady?
I love traveling around the state and meeting people. Connecting with Masons and their families is truly the best part. Even though the year goes by quickly, I’m focusing on enjoying each visit, making new connections, and spending time with people who share the same values and sense of purpose, both with Masons and their ladies.
How can local lodges and Ohio Masons contribute to the charitable effort?
Lodges can donate to the Fund through their own events and fundraising efforts, but they can also make an impact locally. If a lodge knows of a need, like a volunteer fire station purchasing their own gear, they can choose to support that directly. Whether through the Fund or through local giving, Masons have the ability to strengthen their communities in whatever way feels most meaningful to them.
Do you have any upcoming initiatives planned for the year?
As we travel, the other ladies and I often find time during the day that we’d love to use for charitable work. We’re looking into opportunities in the areas we visit — whether that’s supporting veterans, first responders, or other community-focused organizations. The goal is to give back wherever we can and to demonstrate that we are here to support the work our husbands and our lodges are doing across Ohio.
Closing Thoughts
First Lady Colleen Johnson’s focus on the Veterans & First Responders Fund reflects the generosity and service at the heart of Ohio Freemasonry. Her hope for the year is to inspire lodges, empower communities, and ensure that those who protect and serve are supported with the respect and care they deserve.
Join us in supporting the men and women who protect our communities. Your contribution to the Veterans & First Responders Fund helps provide essential equipment, supplies, and support for those who serve.
Give today and make a meaningful difference.