Will the amount of money an individual donates to the various charities have any effect on their standing in the fraternity. i.e. if someone can’t afford to donate very much will they be left on the lower levels of Freemasonry?

That is a great question.  While there are many Masons who are financially well off and make considerable donations to Masonic charities, there are also many of us who are less fortunate.  The amount of money (if any) that you choose to donate to charities has absolutely no effect on your standing in a Masonic Lodge.  In fact, I think it is safe to say that men who donate their time and skills to helping charities is much more recognized than someone who simply writes a check.  What makes someone a great member of the fraternity is their dedication to the tenants of the organization such as brotherly love and charity, not their income or willingness to spend money.