Alpha Phi Omega

Overview

Alpha Phi Omega (APO) is a coeducational service fraternity and a nonprofit organization in the United States. It was founded on December 16, 1925, at Lafayette College in Easton, Pennsylvania, by Frank Reed Horton and 13 other students who were former Boy Scouts or scouters. The fraternity is dedicated to providing community service, leadership development, and promoting friendship among its members.

Purpose and Pillars

The primary purpose of Alpha Phi Omega is to assemble college students into a national service fraternity that embodies the principles of the Scout Oath and Scout Law of the Boy Scouts of America. The organization focuses on three key pillars: Leadership, Friendship, and Service. These pillars guide APO's activities and initiatives.

Service Areas

Alpha Phi Omega provides volunteer service in four main areas:

• Service to the Community: Engaging in local and international community service projects.
• Service to the Campus: Enhancing college campuses through various service events and activities.
• Service to the Fraternity: Developing and strengthening the fraternity itself through leadership and organizational efforts.
• Service to the Nation and World: Participating in national and international service projects.

Structure and Chapters

As of the latest information, Alpha Phi Omega operates with over 744 active chapters, including 250 chapters in the Philippines, and additional chapters in Australia and Canada. It does not operate fraternity houses but may maintain meeting rooms at the discretion of its members. Membership is open to college students, and the fraternity does not restrict its members from joining other organizations.

Nonprofit Status

Alpha Phi Omega is designated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donations to the organization are tax-deductible. The fraternity's financial activities are focused on supporting its service initiatives and leadership development programs.

Leadership and Partnerships

APO partners with organizations such as the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance to provide leadership training and certification opportunities for its members, enhancing their career prospects in the nonprofit sector. This partnership reflects the organization's commitment to developing leaders who can make a positive impact through service.