Royal Arch Research Assistance

A Legacy of Philanthropy and Research

More than five decades of supporting scientific discovery, emerging researchers, and advances in auditory health.

Established in 1974 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit foundation, Royal Arch Research Assistance (R.A.R.A.) has built a longstanding legacy of supporting research into Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD).

Founded under the governance of the General Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, R.A.R.A. has remained committed to advancing scientific understanding, fostering innovative research initiatives, and supporting the development of researchers dedicated to improving the lives of children and individuals affected by CAPD and related auditory challenges.

More Than 50 Years of Research Support

Since 1974, R.A.R.A. has focused its charitable mission on advancing knowledge, encouraging scientific discovery, and helping build the next generation of researchers in auditory science.

Leadership and Governance

Guided by a dedicated Board of Directors composed of Royal Arch Masons, R.A.R.A. is led by the General Grand High Priest, who serves as President of the organization.

Supporting these efforts are Regional Coordinators and State Ambassadors who help oversee public relations, fundraising initiatives, and community engagement across various jurisdictions.

President

General Grand High Priest

Regional Leadership

Regional Coordinators support outreach and fundraising efforts.

State Representation

State Ambassadors help expand public awareness and community engagement.

A Mission Centered on Research

For more than 50 years, R.A.R.A.’s mission has centered on funding research that promotes greater understanding of CAPD, advances early detection, improves therapies and treatments, and contributes toward long-term scientific breakthroughs.

Unlike organizations that operate treatment facilities, R.A.R.A. focuses its efforts on funding vetted researchers and emerging scientists whose work contributes to the future of auditory science and hearing health.

Research Impact

50+

Emerging scientists and researchers supported since 2011.

$1.6M

Contributed to the Hearing Health Foundation.

$43.2M

Estimated matching grants generated through additional charitable and institutional support.

$500K

Approximate amount awarded annually in research grants today.

Strategic Research Partnerships

Hearing Health Foundation

Since 2011, R.A.R.A. has contributed approximately $1.6 million to the Hearing Health Foundation.

That support has helped generate an estimated $43.2 million in matching grants through additional charitable and institutional support.

Autism Speaks

R.A.R.A. has also partnered with Autism Speaks, resulting in more than $1 million in pledged funding.

The partnership helped establish the first Royal Arch Masons Fellowship in 2016.

Recognized Research

Research supported through these initiatives has been recognized by respected institutions including the National Institutes of Health and the Department of Defense.

Supporting Research Today

Today, R.A.R.A. awards approximately $500,000 annually in research grants dedicated to studying CAPD and related auditory disorders.

Grant recipients are carefully evaluated and required to provide ongoing progress reports, ensuring accountability and meaningful scientific advancement.

Research funded through R.A.R.A. has contributed to advancements in early detection, improved therapies, understanding the relationship between CAPD and autism, and innovations in auditory processing research.

Expanding the Reach of Research

Through strategic collaborations with organizations such as Hearing Health Foundation and Autism Speaks, R.A.R.A. continues to expand its impact and support groundbreaking scientific and educational initiatives that bring hope to children, families, service members, and communities affected by CAPD.

Discover the Research We Support

Visitors are encouraged to explore the organization’s funded research initiatives and grantee accomplishments to learn more about the important work being advanced through the support of R.A.R.A. and its contributors.

A Legacy of Philanthropy and Research

$2.9 Million in Grants → $56.1 Million in Research Funding Through Matching Programs 100%
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