Sixty-nine years ago, in 1943, an Ararat Shrine committee known as the "Glad Handers" was renamed the Ararat Greeters and re-established as a uniformed Marching Unit at the direction of Illustrious Potentate Cass W. Browning. From their inception, they have provided a climate fostering growth, service, proficiency and esprit-de-corps.

The Unit's objectives are to promote the welfare of Shrinedom in general and at Ararat Shrine in particular. The Greeters are responsible for greeting and welcoming the Nobility at designated Shrine functions, performing such other related duties as the Illustrious Potentate may direct and participating in parades and ceremonials while maintaining a high standard of proficiency, appearance and morale.
The current membership of the Greeters is eighty-six.  There are 40 classified as active, 7 auxiliary and 39 "less active" known, as Honorary Veterans who have achieved and served their "active" service but who are still active.

The Greeter Unit, from its inception, has provided a climate that fosters growth, service, proficiency and esprit de corps.   It is a distinguished performer in the circus ticket sales area.  Members serve actively at the Circus Performances, the annual Swap Meets, the Antique Car Shows, the Ceremonials, Parades and other annual events.

The Unit schedules and enjoys a fantastic yearly social calendar including formal parties, excursions, seasonal events, steak fries, etc.  If it's good fun, the Greeters do it.  

This year's schedule includes: