WESTFIELD-Melvyn Hook felt drawn to bring the DeMolay program for young men to the city several years ago – knowing that the experience would provide them with the tools they would need throughout their life – as well as create friendships that would last a lifetime.
While membership was low when Hook launched the Tekoa Chapter of DeMolay in 2015, the chapter has seen steady growth over time and on the weekend of Aug. 4, Hook received the “2019 Advisor of the Year” award from Massachusetts DeMolay at Worcester State University during the organization’s annual Conclave celebration.
Members of the Tekoa Chapter of DeMolay are seen with Melvyn Hook, center, along with Anthony Leroux, District Deputy Grand Master of the 29th Masonic District, during Massachusetts DeMolay’s Conclave 2019. Hook received the Advisor of the Year award. (Submitted photo)
“Conclave 2019 will go down as the year Tekoa Chapter of DeMolay made its mark again and has shown that we are here to stay,” said Hook, a former resident of Westfield who now resides in Chester. “I couldn’t be more proud of all my boys. Every one of them has grown so much right in front of my eyes … it truly is the greatest award you could ever receive.”
Hook, who serves as chapter chairman for the advisor board, noted he was “very honored and humbled” when his name was announced as the award recipient.
“The award is given to someone who in the past year has contributed to the growth and success of DeMolay, as well as one’s performance at the chapter, helping young men in daily life situations,” said Hook.
Hook added that during the weekend gathering, Joseph Ruffo of Westfield was appointed state chaplain and Noah Trude of Feeding Hills received a $1,000 scholarship toward college tuition.
While Hook received the award, he said the backbone of the program includes the “moms and dads” who work tirelessly behind the scenes.
“I also have to thank everyone who has been a part of bringing DeMolay back to Western Massachusetts,” said Hook, noting up until 1978, DeMolay had a presence in the area. “Most importantly, I thank my team of advisors who give of themselves for our young men whenever they are called upon. I am honored to work with all of you.”
Hook said his desire to bring DeMolay to the Greater Westfield area had a simple premise – instill values in young men so they would become “outstanding citizens in our community.”
“We teach young men how to do fundraising as well as public speaking from memory,” said Hook. “We also teach comradeship, cleanliness, fidelity, love of country, love of God, and respect for womanhood.”
DeMolay International is now in its 100th year, founded by Frank S. Land in Kansas City, MO, who believed that young men who accepted the “challenge of leadership – both of character and of action” would transform themselves into “citizens of the highest caliber.”
Hook said that mission statement has been the driving force for him and his advisors to continue to grow the Tekoa Chapter – for ages 12 – 21 – over the past four years.
A business meeting, open to the public, is conducted the first Monday of every month at 7 p.m. at the Masonic building on Broad Street.
“If someone is interested in attending a meeting we ask they wear a shirt and tie,” said Hook.
Hook added that a “fun night” is also open to the public and is conducted the third Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Events run the gamut from playing pool or bowling to miniature golf.
Hook has also started a Woronoco Manor of Squires chapter for boys, ages 9 – 11, which meets on the third Monday of every month at 6:30 at the Masonic building. In the near future, Hook hopes to open chapters in the Amherst and North Adams areas.
“During Conclave 2019, Simon Fawell of Haydenville finished his degree work and Tyler Whalen of Westfield took his degrees to move up to DeMolay from Woronoco Manor of Squires so they are now both fully vested members of Tekoa Chapter of DeMolay,” said Hook.
It is apparent when Hook talks about the chapter and the young men who are an integral part of it – he feels truly blessed with the progress that has been made.
“Our chapter is still in the process of growing and learning,” said Hook, adding, “I call it a family.”
Since Hook understands the value of lifelong friendships – he reminds the young men that the friendships they make through DeMolay will “never go away.”
“The boys take care of each other,” said Hook. “There is no bullying – boys are accepted as themselves and come from all walks of life. I always say ‘go find that boy who is eating lunch by himself and introduce him to DeMolay,’ he will have friends for the rest of his life.”
Persons interested in more information about the chapters can call Hook at (413) 354-1066 or send an email to him at [email protected]. Hook, advisors and young men will also have information available when they sell hamburgers, hot dogs and beverages at the Blandford Fair during the Labor Day weekend. Also, a membership drive is planned Oct. 19 during the Masonic Open House on Broad Street. Hook also encourages persons interested in the chapter to visit the Tekoa Chapter of DeMolay on Facebook or www.mademolay.net.
“We welcome young men who are interested in DeMolay to stop by and meet our boys and advisors, and we also welcome adults who would like to volunteer their time as an advisor,” said Hook.
Joseph Ruffo, 17, who is centering his studies at Westfield Technical Academy on aviation, has been a member of the Tekoa chapter for more than three years. He wholeheartedly encourages young men to consider joining DeMolay.
Joseph Ruffo, son of Barbara and Michael Ruffo of Westfield, was appointed state chaplain for Massachusetts DeMolay during the organization’s recent Conclave 2019 at Worcester State University. (Submitted photo)
“I wasn’t involved in groups outside of school,” said Ruffo, the son of Barbara and Michael Ruffo of Westfield. “One aspect of DeMolay that stood out to me was learning public speaking skills. I was a shy kid but now it’s easy to talk in front of a crowd.”
Ruffo added that DeMolay has also shown him that doors can be opened through networking and building connections that will last a lifetime.
“Not only do we have a lot of fun at meetings and state competitions, we also learn about the importance of helping your community through charitable works,” said Ruffo, adding his future plans include joining the Shriners organization. “I know the importance of being a part of a brotherhood that gives back and I look forward to always helping out whenever I can.”
