Provided by Kena Shriners
After 67 years in Arlington and Fairfax Counties, Kena Shriners opened their new headquarters in Manassas. Mayor Hal Parrish joined local and national fraternity and community leaders at the ribbon cutting ceremony on Saturday, Dec. 15 at the new location at 9500 Technology Drive in Manassas.
“For the past year, the nobles of Kena Shriners have worked tirelessly to bring us to this day,” said Kena Shriners Potentate Larry D. Parks. “With members from all over the region, we look forward to continuing our history of service and community involvement throughout Northern Virginia.”
The ceremony included the opening of a cornerstone that was laid in 1976 at their previous facility in Fairfax. A piece of American history, the cornerstone is made from Aquia sandstone that was once part of the U.S. Capitol removed during a renovation in 1958. The capsule contained historical documents including a newspaper, program from the 1976 event and membership cards from the members of the temple at the time.
Charitable Works
The newly renovated building is specially designed to support the 700+ members of the organization and provides ample space for their charitable works supporting Shriners Hospitals for Children. The building will be used for organizational meetings, community events, and fundraisers. Clubs and units that participate in parades across the region will also be housed in the new space.
“As Shriners, we are passionate about our support of Shriners Hospitals for Children and the communities where we live and work,” Parks said. “With this new facility we hope more community-minded individuals will get involved and help us help kids with special medical needs.”
Shriners around the world are recognized by an ancient and iconic symbol – the red fez. They are also known for their charitable efforts supporting Shriners Hospitals for Children. Their philanthropic efforts support the health care system’s 22 facilities across the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Children up to 18 years of age who have orthopedic conditions, burns, spinal cord injuries, cleft lip and palate and more are provided care regardless of the families’ ability to pay.
