In 1995, a group of Scottish Rite Masons, from the Valley of Boston, organized the first Golf Tournament fund raiser, for the Greater Boston 32º Masonic Learning Center for Children. The learning center was the brainchild of M.W. J. Phillip Berquist, 33º, MSA, Past Grand Master of Masons in Massachusetts, and Past Thrice Potent Master of Boston Lafayette Lodge of Perfection. Bros. Bob Johnston, Bill Manchester, Phil Berquist, and Phil Turner, formed the first golf committee. The tournament was held at Juniper Hill Golf Course in Northborough, and established a tradition of fraternal fun, friendships and good sportsmanship. All aimed at supporting the cause of teaching children coping skills to overcome the disorder of Dyslexia.

Over the years the tournament moved around to several golf venues, in 1997 the Teddy Bear moved to Holden Hills Country Club, and 1998 we moved to Pembroke County Club, and now for the last several years, Stow Acres C.C., in Stow, MA. It may move again, but the “Teddy Bear” will maintain its tradition of community support for a valuable resource for children in the Greater Boston area.

Over the last 15 years the Teddy Bear has raised close to $150,000 for the support of the Learning Center. If you are a non-golfer, or just would like to support our efforts you can mail donations to: