Welcome to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF), a global fraternity founded in 1819, united by the values of Friendship, Love, and Truth. If you’re seeking a community where you can forge deep connections, create meaningful change, and grow as a person, you’ve found your home! Our diverse members—spanning all walks of life—share a passion for making the world a better place. Below, discover why you’ll love being an Odd Fellow, meet some of our famous members (including celebrated figures and heroes), and learn how you can join our welcoming family.

Why Become an Odd Fellow?

Joining the IOOF means becoming part of a vibrant, worldwide community! Here’s why our order is so special:

• Build Lasting Friendships:
  Connect with a diverse, inclusive network of Brothers and Sisters who share your values. From local lodge events to international gatherings, you’ll find a sense of belonging wherever you go.
• Make a Real Impact:
  Live our motto—“visit the sick, relieve the distressed, bury the dead, and educate the orphan”—through heartfelt community service. From local charity drives to global initiatives like arthritis research or our Living Legacy tree-planting program, your efforts create lasting change.
• Grow Through Tradition:
  Our centuries-old rituals and degrees teach lessons of compassion, tolerance, and leadership, helping you become your best self. Members like Schuyler Colfax, who became U.S. Vice President, credit the IOOF for building their confidence and character.
• Enjoy a Warm, Fun Community:
  Our lodges host lively events like dinners, dances, and creative projects. We’re open to all genders, races, faiths, and backgrounds, creating a space where everyone feels included.
• Develop Valuable Skills:
  Gain hands-on experience in leadership, event planning, and nonprofit work, enhancing your personal and professional life while making a difference.
  Being an Odd Fellow means living with purpose, surrounded by a community that inspires you to uplift others and grow.

Ready to join our family? Becoming an Odd Fellow is simple and starts with a single step. Here’s how to get started:

• Connect with Us: Reach out to a local lodge through our website, by phone, or by attending an IOOF event. Not sure where to begin? Visit our IOOF Lodge Directory to find a lodge near you or contact the IOOF Grand Lodge in your area and they can assist you with finding a local lodge..
• Explore Our Mission: Dive into our website, check out library resources, or chat with members on our social media to see if our values of Friendship, Love, and Truth resonate with you. We’re happy to share what makes us unique!
• Find a Sponsor: You’ll need a current member to recommend you. Don’t know one? We’ll connect you with someone to guide you through the process.
• Apply and Get to Know Us: Submit an application (provided by a member) with a small initiation fee. A friendly interviewing committee will meet with you to answer questions and learn about you—it’s a warm conversation, not a test!
• Join the Lodge: If approved by a member vote, you’ll be invited to an initiation ceremony, marking your first step as an Odd Fellow. From there, jump into lodge activities, degrees, and community projects.
• No Lodge Nearby?: If there’s no lodge in your area, you can gather 15 people of good character (or 5 third-degree members) to petition for a new lodge. The Sovereign Grand Lodge will support you every step of the way.
• Who Can Join? We welcome anyone of good character, loyal to their country, and who believes in a Supreme Being (interpreted broadly to respect diverse beliefs). Our order is open to all races, genders, and backgrounds, with a minimum age of 16 for adult lodges (or 8 for Junior Lodges).

Take the First Step Today!

Joining the Independent Order of Odd Fellows is your chance to follow in the footsteps of legends like Eleanor Roosevelt, Burl Ives, and Ulysses S. Grant while building friendships and making a difference. Fill out our membership form at odd-fellows.org or contact us to start your journey. We can’t wait to welcome you to our family!

Our order has been home to remarkable individuals, including political leaders, celebrities, and heroes who’ve shaped history. Here are some notable Odd Fellows:

• Schuyler Colfax (1823–1885): U.S. Vice President under Ulysses S. Grant, Colfax joined the IOOF at 21 and credited it for transforming him into a confident leader and renowned orator.
• Wyatt Earp (1848–1929): The legendary Wild West lawman and folk hero was an Odd Fellow, embodying our values of service and community through his storied life.
• Eleanor Roosevelt (1884–1962): First Lady, humanitarian, and global advocate for human rights, she joined the Rebekah Assembly, the women’s auxiliary of the IOOF, championing equality and justice.
• Charles Lindbergh (1902–1974): The celebrated aviator, known for his solo transatlantic flight, was an Odd Fellow who valued our emphasis on character and service.
• Burl Ives (1909–1995): The beloved folk singer, actor, and Academy Award winner (for The Big Country) was an Odd Fellow, reflecting our commitment to community and creativity.
• Ulysses S. Grant (1822–1885): The 18th U.S. President and Civil War hero, Grant was an Odd Fellow whose leadership and dedication to unity aligned with our mission.
• William McKinley (1843–1901): The 25th U.S. President, McKinley was an active Odd Fellow whose service-oriented leadership mirrored our values.
• Al Oerter (1936–2007): A four-time Olympic gold medalist in discus throw, Oerter was an Odd Fellow whose athletic achievements and community spirit inspired millions.
• Thomas Wildey (1782–1861): The founder of the IOOF in North America, Wildey was a true hero of our order, establishing a fraternity dedicated to charity and brotherhood in 1819.

These icons—from political giants and cultural stars to everyday heroes—show how Odd Fellowship fosters leadership, compassion, and lasting impact across diverse fields.