A Shriners’ principles inculcate pleasure, hospitality and jollity without intemperance, coarseness or rudeness. All are also devoted to uplifting those less fortunate, thus the chosen charities among Shriners varies from state to state.

Imperial Council of Shriners was organized in Washington D.C. in October of 1897, and incorporated in October of 1898. Its purpose has always been to serve as the premier philanthropic arm of the Masonic Order, as is evidenced with its recurring contributions to the Sickle Cell Anemia Foundation, Shriners Hospitals and the United Negro College Fund.