Royal Arch Charity

Helping Children Hear, Understand, and Thrive

Royal Arch Masons support Royal Arch Research Assistance, a nonprofit philanthropy dedicated to advancing research into Central Auditory Processing Disorder and related auditory challenges.

Our Philanthropic Mission

Turning Royal Arch charity into scientific progress

Established in 1974, Royal Arch Research Assistance—commonly known as R.A.R.A.—is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit foundation associated with the General Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons.

R.A.R.A. does not operate treatment facilities. Its purpose is to fund carefully evaluated researchers and emerging scientists whose work advances understanding, early detection, therapies, and long-term solutions for Central Auditory Processing Disorder.

A Legacy of Impact

More than five decades of Royal Arch support for auditory research

R.A.R.A. combines Masonic charity with strategic research partnerships designed to multiply the value of every contribution.

1974 Founded

R.A.R.A. began its mission of supporting scientific research into CAPD and related auditory challenges.

50+ Researchers Supported

Since 2011, R.A.R.A. reports support for more than 50 emerging scientists and researchers.

$1.6M Contributed to HHF

R.A.R.A. reports approximately $1.6 million contributed to the Hearing Health Foundation.

$500K Approximate Annual Grants

R.A.R.A. reports awarding approximately $500,000 annually for research into CAPD and related disorders.

Impact figures are based on information published by R.A.R.A. and may change as additional grants and partnerships are announced.

Understanding CAPD

Hearing sound is not always the same as understanding it

Central Auditory Processing Disorder affects how the brain organizes and interprets sound. A person with CAPD may have normal hearing acuity while still struggling to understand speech, especially in classrooms, restaurants, groups, or other noisy settings.

Speech Confusion

Words or similar sounds may be misunderstood.

Following Directions

Multi-step verbal instructions may be difficult to retain.

Noisy Environments

Background sound can make conversation difficult to separate.

Listening Fatigue

Processing sound may require exhausting levels of concentration.

An audiologist is the professional qualified to evaluate and diagnose CAPD. Early identification and individualized support can help children and adults manage its effects.

Read R.A.R.A.’s complete CAPD guide →

Funding the Search for Answers

Research today can improve lives for generations

Better Therapies

Scientific investigation can improve interventions, treatment strategies, assistive technology, and supportive environments.

Read research news →
Strategic Partnerships

R.A.R.A. collaborates with organizations including the Hearing Health Foundation and Autism Speaks to expand research impact.

Learn about R.A.R.A. →

Ways to Support the Mission

Every gift helps move auditory research forward

R.A.R.A. offers several ways for individuals, families, Chapters, and other supporters to participate.

One-Time or Monthly Giving

Make a direct online contribution or choose recurring monthly support through the official R.A.R.A. donation page.

Donate online →

Memorial and Honorarium Gifts

Honor a living person or remember someone who has passed while supporting research that brings hope to children and families.

Review giving options →

Recognition Programs

R.A.R.A. maintains donor recognition opportunities for individuals and Chapters, including pins, badges, and certificates.

View recognition levels →

Royal Arch Charity in Action

Help turn compassion into discovery

Contributions to R.A.R.A. support carefully evaluated research intended to improve understanding, detection, and treatment of Central Auditory Processing Disorder and related auditory challenges.