Riverhead-Potunk Lodge Fires Up Annual Fundraiser

The Riverhead-Potunk Masonic Lodge will fire up the grills Oct. 3 for its annual Pig Roast and Chicken BBQ, bringing together food, fellowship and fundraising in support of Maureen’s Haven Homeless Outreach.

The family-friendly event will run from 2 to 6 p.m., featuring roasted pork, barbecued chicken, side salads and beverages, along with a 50/50 raffle. Tickets are $35 in advance and $40 at the door, with all proceeds benefiting Maureen’s Haven. The general public is welcome.

“This is about more than barbecue,” said Jim Geiger, Potunk Lodge Secretary and a longtime Mason. “It’s about carrying forward the same spirit of brotherhood and generosity that built this more than 100 years ago.”

The barbecue continues a long tradition of community service for Potunk Lodge No. 1071, which was chartered in 1925 after Masons from Westhampton, Hampton Bays and neighboring communities sought to establish a lodge closer to home. They are hosting the event in conjunction with Riverhead Lodge 645.

Over the decades, members have raised money through pig roasts, golf outings and other events, supporting local families, charities and scholarships for area students.

Maureen’s Haven has become a particular focus for the lodge. The Riverhead-based organization assists people experiencing homelessness, and Potunk members have prepared monthly hot dinners for its guests during the colder months.

“It’s about giving back, the same way the founding members did 100 years ago,” Geiger said.

The lodge’s commitment has been carried through generations of local businessmen, veterans and craftsmen, including families whose members helped build and maintain the organization over the years.

“When I joined, I was the youngest guy in the room,” longtime member Tim Rumph said. “Now I’m one of the oldest. We want to bring in new members, young people who can carry the torch for the next 100 years.”

For the lodge, the October barbecue combines that history with a simple formula that has served it well for generations: neighbors gathering together, enjoying a meal and helping those who need it.