Joining a fraternal organization is one of the most rewarding decisions you can make for personal growth, community service, and lasting friendships. Whether you're interested in the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, the Loyal Order of Moose, the Fraternal Order of Eagles, the Knights of Columbus, the Lions Club, or the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, this comprehensive guide walks you through every step of the membership process. We'll explore the specific requirements, application procedures, costs, and what to expect from each major organization.
2M+ Fraternal Members in U.S.
10,000+ Active Lodges
$3B+ Annual Charitable Giving
125+ Avg. Year Founded
Understanding Fraternal Organizations
What Are Fraternal Organizations?
Fraternal organizations are membership groups dedicated to brotherhood, community service, and mutual support. The word "fraternal" means relating to brothers, and these organizations create bonds between members that extend beyond typical social clubs. Most fraternal organizations maintain detailed traditions, ceremonial practices, and codes of ethics that give members a shared sense of identity and purpose. Modern fraternal organizations combine several key elements: regular meetings where members gather for fellowship and business, charitable programs addressing community needs, social events that strengthen member relationships, and rituals or ceremonies that reinforce organizational values. Unlike purely social clubs, fraternal organizations emphasize character development, community responsibility, and mutual aid among members.Why People Join Fraternal Organizations
People join fraternal organizations for diverse reasons. Some seek meaningful friendships and community connection in an increasingly fragmented society. Others are drawn to the charitable mission and desire to make a tangible difference in their communities. Many appreciate the structure, traditions, and sense of belonging that fraternal membership provides. Still others join because family members were members, continuing a multi-generational tradition. The modern appeal of fraternal organizations lies in their ability to address real human needs for connection, purpose, and community. In a digital age where relationships often feel superficial, fraternal organizations offer genuine fellowship. Their charitable work provides satisfaction that mere entertainment cannot match.
Did You Know? The oldest fraternal organization still active in America is the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, founded in 1819. Some organizations trace their roots even further back to European origins, with traditions spanning centuries.
Step 1: Identifying Your Local Lodge or Aerie
Finding Organizations in Your Area
The first step in joining any fraternal organization is locating a local lodge or chapter near you. Each major organization maintains websites with "find a lodge" tools. The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks operates through the website www.elks.org, where you can search for local lodges by zip code. The Lions Club International's website (lionsclubs.org) allows searching for clubs by location. Similar tools exist for the Moose, Eagles, Knights of Columbus, and Odd Fellows. Beyond website searches, you can ask local business owners, libraries, or community centers about fraternal organizations in your area. Many organizations maintain physical locations with signs, making them easy to spot. You might also check your community newspaper's events section, as fraternal organizations frequently advertise meetings and special events.Visiting Your Prospective Organization
Once you've identified an organization in your area, consider visiting their facility or attending a public event. Most fraternal organizations welcome visitors to observe their meetings or attend social events. This initial visit accomplishes several important things: you'll experience the organization's atmosphere firsthand, meet current members in a relaxed setting, and develop a sense of whether the organization aligns with your values and interests. When you visit, introduce yourself to members and express your interest in learning about membership. Ask questions about the organization's history, current projects, membership costs, and time requirements. Most members are enthusiastic about sharing information and will patiently answer your questions. This conversation helps you understand whether the organization genuinely interests you before committing to the application process.Step 2: Understanding Membership Requirements
Universal Requirements Across Organizations
While specific requirements vary among organizations, most fraternal groups share common membership criteria. You must typically be at least 18 years old (some organizations allow younger members or Junior membership categories). You must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident. You must demonstrate good moral character—most organizations will conduct background checks to verify you don't have serious criminal convictions. You must be able to pay membership dues and any applicable fees. Beyond these basic requirements, most organizations seek members with genuine interest in fraternity and community service. You don't need prior experience or knowledge about the organization—members are happy to educate new recruits about traditions and procedures. Most organizations don't require religious affiliation, though some like the Knights of Columbus are specifically Catholic organizations.Organization-Specific Requirements
Different fraternal organizations maintain specific requirements tailored to their traditions and missions. The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks requires belief in a Supreme Being, though they don't specify religious denomination. The Knights of Columbus requires Catholic faith. The Loyal Order of Moose historically required members to be men, though this has changed in recent years in some jurisdictions. The Lions Club has no age restrictions beyond adulthood and actively welcomes women and people of all backgrounds. Checking the specific requirements of your target organization is essential before beginning the application process. This prevents disappointment and ensures you meet all criteria before investing time in applications. Most organizations publish membership requirements on their websites or through their local lodges.Step 3: Completing the Application
The Application Form
The membership application is typically a straightforward document requesting biographical information. You'll provide your name, address, date of birth, occupation, and contact information. Most applications ask about your community involvement and charitable interests. Some organizations request references from current members or from your community. Applications are generally not lengthy or complicated—they typically require 15-30 minutes to complete. The purpose is to ensure membership eligibility and give the organization basic information about new members. You'll also declare your agreement with the organization's constitution and bylaws, confirming your understanding of membership obligations.The Membership Committee Review
After submitting your application, the membership committee reviews it during a waiting period that typically lasts 30 days. During this time, committee members may contact you with questions or request additional information. If you provided references, the committee may contact those individuals to ask about your character and community contributions.
Organization-Specific Application Processes
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPOE)
Overview: The Elks, with approximately 850,000 members across nearly 2,000 lodges, represent the largest fraternal organization in the United States. Founded in 1868, the Elks maintain a strong commitment to youth programs, veterans' services, and community support. Their motto—"Elks Care. Elks Share."—reflects their service-oriented mission. Membership Requirements:- Must be at least 21 years of age
- Must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident for at least one year
- Must demonstrate belief in a Supreme Being (non-denominational)
- Must have good moral character and reputation
- Must reside or work within lodge jurisdiction
- No criminal record that would reflect poorly on the organization
- Initiation fee: $75-$200 (varies by lodge)
- Annual dues: $150-$400 (varies by lodge)
- Optional donations to charitable programs
Loyal Order of Moose
Overview: Founded in 1888, the Moose operates more than 1,400 lodges with approximately 400,000 members. The organization emphasizes fraternal fellowship and operates the Moose Charities Foundation, which provides educational scholarships and support for children of deceased members. Membership Requirements:- Must be at least 21 years of age
- Must be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident
- Must have lived in your lodge's jurisdiction for at least 30 days
- Must demonstrate good moral character
- Must be able to pay membership dues
- Belief in a Supreme Being is expected but specific faith is not required
- Initiation fee: $50-$150
- Annual dues: $100-$250
- Optional insurance and benefit programs available
Fraternal Order of Eagles
Overview: The Eagles, founded in 1898 in Seattle, operate more than 1,400 aeries worldwide with approximately 900,000 members. The organization is known for creating Mother's Day, advocating for Social Security, and maintaining extensive charitable programs. Membership Requirements:- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
- Must have good moral character
- Must be able to pay membership dues
- No specific religious requirement
- No gender restrictions—men and women welcome
- Initiation fee: $25-$75 (varies by aerie)
- Annual dues: $100-$300 (varies by aerie)
- Widows and Orphans Fund contribution: $5-$15 monthly
Knights of Columbus
Overview: Founded in 1882 as a Catholic fraternal organization, the Knights maintain more than 14,000 councils with approximately 1.8 million members. The organization provides insurance products, charitable giving, and faith-based fraternal fellowship for Catholic men. Membership Requirements:- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Must be a practicing Catholic in good standing with the Church
- Must have received the Sacrament of Communion
- Must demonstrate good moral character
- Must be able to pay membership dues
- Must support the Church and its teachings
- Initiation fee: $50-$100
- Annual dues: $150-$300
- Optional insurance and protection programs available
- Charitable giving opportunities (voluntary)
Lions Club International
Overview: The Lions Club, founded in 1917, operates more than 48,000 clubs across 200+ countries with approximately 1.4 million members. The Lions emphasize service projects addressing hunger, diabetes, vision care, and youth development. Membership Requirements:- Must be at least 18 years of age (no upper age limit)
- Must be of good moral character
- Must be interested in community service
- Must be able to participate regularly and pay membership dues
- No religious affiliation required
- No gender restrictions—actively welcomes women and men
- Initiation fee: $0-$75 (varies by club; many clubs waive this)
- Annual dues: $75-$250 (varies by club)
- Meeting meal costs (typically $10-$20 per meeting)
- Club fundraiser participation (optional but encouraged)
Independent Order of Odd Fellows
Overview: The oldest continuously active fraternal organization in America, the Odd Fellows trace their heritage to 1819. They operate through subordinate lodges with approximately 150,000 members. The organization emphasizes friendship, love, and truth. Membership Requirements:- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Must be of good moral character
- Must be willing to support charitable and benevolent works
- Must be able to pay membership dues
- Belief in a Supreme Being is expected but not dogmatically defined
- Initiation fee for each degree: $50-$150
- Annual dues: $100-$200
- Optional degree advancement fees
Comparison Table of Major Fraternal Organizations
| Organization | Annual Dues | Age Requirement | Religious Requirement | Number of Lodges | Membership |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks | $150-$400 | 21+ | Belief in Supreme Being | ~1,900 | ~850,000 |
| Loyal Order of Moose | $100-$250 | 21+ | Belief in Supreme Being | ~1,400 | ~400,000 |
| Fraternal Order of Eagles | $100-$300 | 18+ | None | ~1,400 | ~900,000 |
| Knights of Columbus | $150-$300 | 18+ | Catholic Faith Required | ~14,000 | ~1,800,000 |
| Lions Club International | $75-$250 | 18+ | None | ~48,000 | ~1,400,000 |
| Independent Order of Odd Fellows | $100-$200 | 18+ | Belief in Supreme Being | ~1,000 | ~150,000 |
"The process of joining a fraternal organization is designed to be welcoming and straightforward, ensuring new members are genuine in their commitment while maintaining the organization's values and traditions."
Step 4: Preparing for Initiation
What to Expect During Initiation
Initiation is a ceremonial experience that varies by organization. In most cases, initiation involves explanations of the organization's principles, traditions, and expectations. Some organizations use ceremonial elements—regalia, degree work, and symbolic gestures—to make the initiation memorable and meaningful. The purpose is to welcome you formally into the fraternity while emphasizing the seriousness of your membership commitment. Most initiations last 1-2 hours and occur during a regular lodge meeting or a special initiation event. You'll typically be escorted by a current member and positioned in front of the lodge leadership. The initiation may include recitation of pledges, explanations of organizational values, and remarks from lodge leadership welcoming you. Initiation is not meant to be intimidating or unpleasant. Organizations recognize that you're making an important commitment, and the ceremony is designed to honor that decision. Many members describe their initiation as one of their most meaningful fraternal experiences.Financial Obligations and Payment Schedule
Before initiation, you'll arrange payment of initiation fees and your first dues payment. Most organizations offer flexible payment arrangements. Some allow payment plans spreading costs over several months. Understanding your financial obligations before initiation ensures you're prepared and can begin your membership on solid footing. Initiation fees typically range from $25-$200 depending on the organization. Annual dues vary more widely, from $75 for some Lions clubs to $400+ for larger Elks lodges. Beyond these standard costs, some organizations offer optional insurance programs, charitable giving opportunities, and special event costs. You control how much additional money you invest in optional programs.Step 5: Getting Involved After Joining
Orientation and Member Education
After initiation, most organizations provide orientation to help new members understand lodge operations and find ways to contribute. You'll learn about regular meeting formats, committee structures, charitable programs, and social activities. Many organizations assign a mentor—an experienced member who helps you navigate your early membership experiences. Orientation typically lasts several months as you attend meetings, meet more members, and gradually participate in different activities. This gradual introduction prevents overwhelming new members while allowing them to develop a genuine understanding of the organization.Finding Your Role in the Organization
Every fraternal organization offers different opportunities for member involvement. You might serve on charitable project committees, participate in social event planning, take on leadership roles, or focus primarily on attendance at regular meetings. Most organizations recognize that members have different availability and interests, so they accommodate various levels of involvement. Many members eventually serve as lodge officers or committee chairs. These positions involve additional responsibility but provide deep involvement in organizational leadership. Other members prefer to participate without seeking leadership positions, focusing instead on enjoying the fraternal fellowship and supporting the organization's charitable work.
Common Concerns About Joining
Time Commitment Questions
One common concern is whether fraternal membership requires excessive time commitment. In reality, most organizations are flexible about participation. Regular meetings typically occur once or twice monthly and last 1-2 hours. Beyond meetings, you choose your level of involvement in charitable projects and social activities. You can be a successful member attending only regular meetings, or you can become deeply involved in multiple initiatives. The organization accommodates different schedules and availability levels.Cost Concerns
While fraternal membership involves dues and fees, the costs are generally reasonable and transparent. Most organizations publish their dues structures, allowing you to budget accordingly. Compared to country clubs, gyms, or other membership organizations, fraternal dues are typically modest. Additionally, the social benefits—meetings with meals, access to facilities, participation in events—often provide good value for members.Concerns About Compatibility
Many people worry whether they'll fit in with existing members. In reality, fraternal organizations are designed to welcome diverse members. While individual lodges may vary in personality, they share common values of fraternity, community service, and mutual support. If you visit before joining and find you don't connect with the members, you're under no obligation to proceed. Conversely, most people find that shared interest in fraternity and community service creates natural bonds with other members.Red Flags and Concerns to Avoid
Legitimate vs. Illegitimate Organizations
When researching fraternal organizations, verify they are legitimate established groups with national organizations. All major organizations discussed in this guide have national offices, websites, and national leadership structures. Be wary of organizations that don't have clear national affiliation, don't publish information about membership costs, or pressure you to recruit friends before you've experienced the organization yourself. Legitimate fraternal organizations are transparent about their structures, costs, and expectations. They welcome questions and encourage visits before you commit to membership. They don't use high-pressure sales tactics or make unrealistic promises about benefits.Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to know someone in the organization to join?
While knowing a current member can be helpful, it's not required. Most organizations actively recruit members and welcome inquiries from interested individuals. If you don't know a member, simply contact your local lodge directly and express your interest. They'll guide you through the membership process.
What's the difference between a lodge and an aerie?
These are simply different terms for the same thing—the local chapter of a fraternal organization. The Elks, Moose, and Odd Fellows use "lodge." The Fraternal Order of Eagles uses "aerie." The Knights of Columbus use "council." The Lions use "club." They all function similarly as the basic unit where members gather, conduct business, and perform charitable work.
How long does the membership process take?
The process typically takes 6-12 weeks from initial contact to full membership. After your initial visit and application submission, there's usually a 30-day application review period. Then your application is presented to the membership for affirmation (usually the next regular meeting). Initiation typically occurs at the following meeting. However, some organizations move faster, so check with your specific lodge.
Can I visit multiple organizations before deciding to join?
Absolutely. Most organizations encourage potential members to attend meetings and events to experience the organization before committing to membership. Visiting multiple organizations helps you find the one that best matches your interests and personality. There's no obligation to join based on a visit.
What happens if my application is denied?
Denial of membership applications is extremely rare for qualified applicants. In the vast majority of cases, applications are approved by the membership committee and full membership. If an application is denied, the organization typically provides general feedback but may not explain specific reasons due to privacy concerns. You could inquire about reapplying after addressing any concerns, but most organizations approve applications from people with good character and genuine interest.
Can women join fraternal organizations?
Yes, most major fraternal organizations now actively welcome women members. The Lions Club has always welcomed women and now has nearly equal gender representation. The Eagles, Elks, and Moose welcome women members, though some traditional membership structures may reflect the organizations' historical male membership. The Knights of Columbus traditionally limited membership to men, though some councils have begun including women. Organizations continue evolving to be more inclusive and welcoming to all genders.
Conclusion: Joining a fraternal organization is an accessible and rewarding process. Whether you choose the Elks, Moose, Eagles, Knights of Columbus, Lions Club, or Odd Fellows, you're joining a community dedicated to brotherhood, charitable service, and mutual support. The membership process is designed to be welcoming while ensuring new members are genuinely committed to the organization's values. Start by visiting a local lodge or aerie, meeting members, and experiencing the organization firsthand. Most people find that the friendship, purpose, and community connection gained through fraternal membership far exceed their expectations and costs. Take the first step today by contacting your local organization.