How do I find a fraternal lodge near me?
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Use our comprehensive directory by browsing by state, city, or searching our map. FraternalFinder includes 5,485 verified Elks, Moose, Eagles, Knights of Columbus, Lions Club, and Odd Fellows lodges across all 50 states with complete contact information, phone numbers, websites, and community ratings. Simply click on your state above to view all lodges in that area, or use our state directory to filter by city and organization type.
What are the major fraternal organizations?
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The major fraternal organizations covered by FraternalFinder include: the Elks (founded 1868, focused on community service), the Moose (established 1888, emphasizing mutual aid), the Fraternal Order of Eagles (founded 1898, with a "People Helping People" mission), the Knights of Columbus (founded 1882, the world's largest Catholic fraternal organization), Lions Clubs (founded 1917, dedicated to community service), and the Odd Fellows (established 1819, one of the oldest fraternal organizations). Each has unique membership requirements and focuses on different charitable and community initiatives.
How do I join a fraternal lodge?
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To join a fraternal lodge, first determine which organization interests you and verify your eligibility. Visit the local lodge's website or call them directly using the contact information in our directory. Most lodges conduct regular membership meetings and welcome prospective members to attend. The lodge will have a membership officer who can guide you through the application process, which typically includes meeting character requirements, paying membership dues, and completing membership forms. Many lodges have social events and open houses where prospective members can meet current members before joining.
What happens at a fraternal lodge?
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Fraternal lodges serve as community hubs with a variety of activities and functions. Regular events include membership meetings, social gatherings, holiday celebrations, and fundraising events for charitable causes. Many lodges operate dining facilities and event halls, host entertainment and recreational activities, organize community service projects, and support youth development programs. Lodges also provide members with networking opportunities, fellowship, and ways to make a positive difference in their communities. Members often volunteer together for local causes and participate in statewide and national fraternal events.
How many fraternal lodges are in the United States?
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FraternalFinder includes 5,485 verified fraternal lodges across all 50 U.S. states. The major organizations we cover include the Elks with approximately 2,100 lodges, the Moose with about 1,800 lodges, the Fraternal Order of Eagles with over 1,400 aeries, the Knights of Columbus with approximately 16,000 councils worldwide, Lions Clubs with nearly 48,000 clubs globally, and the Odd Fellows with hundreds of lodges worldwide. These organizations collectively represent millions of members dedicated to community service and mutual support.
What is the difference between the Elks, Moose, Eagles, and Knights of Columbus?
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While all four are fraternal organizations focused on community service, they differ in history, membership, and mission. The Elks (BPOE) were founded in 1868 and are known for their veterans programs and youth scholarships — membership is open to U.S. citizens aged 21+. The Moose (LOOM, est. 1888) emphasize family welfare and operate Mooseheart, a residential community for children in need, and Moosehaven, a senior care facility. The Eagles (FOE, est. 1898) championed Social Security legislation and focus on "People Helping People" through local aeries. The Knights of Columbus (est. 1882) are a Catholic fraternal organization with parish-based councils that donate over $185 million annually to charitable causes. Each has its own culture, dues structure, and eligibility requirements.
How much does it cost to join a fraternal lodge?
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Membership costs vary by organization and local lodge. Typical annual dues range from $30 to $150 per year, with a one-time initiation fee of $10 to $75 in most cases. Elks lodges usually charge $75–$150 annually. Moose lodges average $40–$65 per year. Eagles aeries generally run $25–$50. Knights of Columbus councils charge about $30–$50 in annual dues. Lions clubs typically ask $50–$100. Many lodges offer reduced rates for military veterans, first responders, and younger members. Contact your local lodge directly for their current fee schedule — you can find phone numbers and websites in our directory.
Can anyone join a fraternal lodge, or do you need an invitation?
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Most fraternal lodges welcome new members who meet basic eligibility requirements — you typically do not need a personal invitation. The Elks require U.S. citizenship, a belief in God, and sponsorship by an existing member (though many lodges help connect prospective members with sponsors). The Moose require sponsorship from a current member. Eagles aeries are open to anyone of good moral character aged 18 or older. Knights of Columbus membership is open to practicing Catholic men aged 18+. Lions Clubs are open to adults of good character with no religious or political requirements. Odd Fellows require a belief in a Supreme Being. The easiest way to start is to visit a lodge in person during an open event or call them to express your interest — most lodges are actively seeking new members.
Are fraternal lodges the same as Masonic lodges?
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No. While Freemasonry is a fraternal organization, the lodges listed on FraternalFinder — Elks, Moose, Eagles, Knights of Columbus, Lions, and Odd Fellows — are separate and independent organizations with their own histories, traditions, and membership requirements. Masonic lodges (also called Blue Lodges) are part of Freemasonry and have different rituals and membership processes. Some members may belong to multiple fraternal organizations, but each operates independently. FraternalFinder focuses specifically on the six major non-Masonic fraternal orders in the United States.
Can women join fraternal lodges?
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Yes, several fraternal organizations welcome women as full members. The Fraternal Order of Eagles has admitted women since 1927 and many aeries have active women's auxiliaries. Lions Clubs have been open to women since 1987 and today nearly one-third of Lions members worldwide are women. The Odd Fellows accept both men and women and also have the Rebekah Degree specifically for women. The Moose has a parallel organization, Women of the Moose (WOTM), with its own chapters. The Elks began admitting women in 1995. The Knights of Columbus remain a male-only organization, though the Columbiettes serve as an affiliated women's auxiliary. In practice, most lodge social events and dining facilities are open to spouses, families, and guests regardless of membership status.
