MWUGL Foundation Inc.

06/15/2026

To know where we are going we must know where we have been!

06/15/2026

06/15/2026

Our Education Chair Genaro Antoninus Pius Urso giving one of the first ever tours of the Lavilla Lift Ev'ry voice and sing Hertiage Trail to the community showcasing The Most Worshipful Union Grand Lodge and the Sollie Mitchell Masonic and Civil Rights Museum. .

06/15/2026

The Most Worshipful Union Grand Lodge Foundation is a proud supporter of communities and the education of the contributions of African Americans in America and across the state of Florida.

As we comemorate and celebrate 250 years of America we highlight the contributions and diversity of American Florida heros.

The Most Worshipful Union Grand Lodge of Florida, under the leadership of the Honorable Gus Harris Jr., 20th Grand Master, proudly participated in unveiling and ribbon cutting for the lavilla lift ev'ry voice and sing history trail. Representing the Grand Master were District 13 District Deputy Grand Master Bolden, Grand Historian Genaro Urso, Grand Worthy Matron Renee Bolden, Foundation Board Member and Immediate Past President Brandon Cooper J.D. along with all the members of MWUGL Fl Prince Hall affiliated Masons from across Florida, joined by members of the LaVilla Heritage Trail Committee, and numerous dignitaries, including Mayor Donna Deegan, Council Member Rahman Johnson, and Councilwoman Ju'Coby Pittman.

The LaVilla Lift Ev'ry Voice & Sing Heritage Trail was developed by the Downtown Investment Authority (DIA) through the efforts of a specially appointed committee consisting of local historians, community advocates, and stakeholders dedicated to preserving the history of Jacksonville's historic LaVilla neighborhood.

The LaVilla Heritage Trail and Gateway Committee was co-chaired by Ennis Davis and Shawana Brooks, with members including Rodney Hurst, Marsha Phelts, Carol Alexander, Suzanne Pickett, Rahman Johnson, Ayesha Covington, Mamie Davis, Dr. Tim Gilmore, Mitch Hemann, Adrian Swanigan, Adonnica Toler, Genaro Urso, and Lloyd Washington.

Spanning 1.7 miles and featuring 22 historical markers, the trail was brought to life through the collaborative efforts of community leaders, historians, artists, and consultants. Key contributors included Carla Jones (storytelling), Erin Kendrick (visual design and marker artwork), and Ashanta Williamson (project management). Ongoing preservation and community development efforts continue through LaVilla Preservation, an organization dedicated to protecting and promoting the neighborhood's historic legacy.

This achievement stands as a testament to what can be accomplished when community leaders, historians, elected officials, and citizens unite to preserve and celebrate the stories that define our shared heritage. The LaVilla Heritage Trail will serve as a lasting educational and cultural resource, ensuring that future generations understand and appreciate the remarkable contributions of Jacksonville's African American pioneers.

05/28/2026

We are very proud of this moment and honor given to our very own Education Chair Jerry Urso. The MWUGL Foundation continues to champion accurate and authentic history and education to the community.

05/27/2026

📍 Save the Date: Honoring the Rich History of LaVilla!
We are thrilled to invite the public to celebrate a monumental milestone in the preservation of our community’s deep heritage. Join us for the official opening ceremony and ribbon cutting of the LaVilla: Lift Ev’ry Voice & Sing Heritage Trail.
This new trail honors the profound legacy of LaVilla—historically celebrated as the "Harlem of the South"—and features brand-new historical markers throughout the neighborhood that tell the true stories of the people, places, and moments that shaped our history.
🗓️ Date: Friday, June 12, 2026
🕙 Time: 10:00 AM
📍 Location: Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Park (120 Lee St, Jacksonville, FL 32204)
🗺️ Event Schedule:
10:00 AM: Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony at the Park.
Immediately After: A guided tour of the new Heritage Trail Markers throughout LaVilla.
Following the Trail Tour: An exclusive tour of the Sollie Mitchell Masonic History and Civil Rights Museum (410 Broad St.).
Come walk the trail, explore the history, and stand together as we honor our shared legacy. All are welcome!

04/16/2026

03/24/2026

Promoting a great opportunity for High School Seniors sponsored by the Memorial Foundation where our Foundation President Cooper is a prestigious member of the Innaugeral 2021 cohort of Memorial Foundation Global Fellows!

Please share with anyone who has High School Seniors.

🎓 Calling All Graduating Seniors! 🎓

Your HBCU journey could start with this one step. Join the HBCU Scholarship Virtual Info Session II to connect directly with recruiters, learn how to qualify for scholarships, and access resources that can shape your future.

📅 Sunday, March 29, 2026
⏰ 5:00 PM ET
💻 Virtual Event

✨ What you’ll gain:
✔️ Meet HBCU recruiters & representatives
✔️ Access important college and scholarship resources
✔️ Learn how to qualify for funding opportunities

🌍 The MLK Global Youth Leadership Conference returns to Nassau, The Bahamas — April 18, 2026
📌 Attendance at this session is highly recommended for scholarship eligibility.

📲 Scan the QR code to register and secure your spot.

Your future. Your legacy. Your HBCU experience starts now.

03/19/2026

The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Alabama proudly participated in the 61st Selma Bridge Crossing Jubilee on Sunday, March 8, 2026, honoring the legacy of the historic Selma-to-Montgomery march. Brothers from across the jurisdiction gathered in unity, proudly representing Prince Hall Masonry while marching across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in remembrance of those who fought for voting rights and social justice. The event showcased a powerful display of brotherhood, community engagement, and continued commitment to service, as members stood alongside civic leaders, organizations, and citizens to reflect on the past while inspiring future generations.

Here is the recap live!

https://youtu.be/VYe3DUk2-yI?feature=shared

03/19/2026

The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Alabama highlighted powerful voices during participant interviews at the 61st Selma Bridge Crossing Jubilee on Sunday, March 8, 2026. Members shared heartfelt reflections on the significance of the historic march, emphasizing unity, resilience, and the ongoing fight for equality and justice. Brothers spoke with pride about representing Prince Hall Masonry while honoring the sacrifices of those who paved the way, reinforcing a continued commitment to community leadership, civic engagement, and uplifting future generations.

See the interviews here!

The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Alabama highlighted powerful voices during participant interviews at the 61st Selma Bridge Crossing Jubilee on...