Loyal Order of Moose

The Loyal Order of Moose is a nonprofit fraternal and service organization founded in the spring of 1888 by Dr. John Henry Wilson in Louisville, Kentucky. Initially, it served as a men's social club but evolved into a major fraternal organization under the leadership of James J. Davis, who transformed it into a dynamic force with a focus on community service and support for members in need.

History

The Loyal Order of Moose was established with minimal success until James J. Davis became involved in 1906. Recognizing the potential for growth, Davis was appointed Supreme Organizer and vigorously expanded the organization by introducing an affordable insurance program with membership dues ranging from $5 to $10. This initiative attracted thousands of members, primarily from the working class, by offering a social safety net for their families in the absence of governmental support. By 1912, the Order had grown to nearly half a million members across over 1,000 lodges.

Community Programs and Services

Today, the Loyal Order of Moose operates numerous community programs, supporting causes such as children in need, seniors, and broader community welfare projects. The organization encompasses:

• Mooseheart Child City & School: A 1,023-acre community located about 40 miles west of Chicago, providing a home and educational opportunities for children of deceased or disabled Moose members.
• Moosehaven: A 63-acre retirement community for members and their spouses near Jacksonville, Florida, established in 1922.
• Community Service Programs: The organization conducts extensive humanitarian efforts at both local and national levels, including community service projects worth approximately $70 to $100 million annually.

Membership and Presence

With a presence in all 50 states, four Canadian provinces, Great Britain, and other regions, the Loyal Order of Moose boasts a large membership base engaged in various social, recreational, and philanthropic activities. The organization supports numerous charities and local community initiatives, fostering a culture of mutual support and service.

Legal Status and Structure

The Loyal Order of Moose is classified as a 501(c)(8) nonprofit organization, emphasizing its focus on fraternal benefits. The organization operates under a hierarchical structure with various degrees of membership, including the Moose Legion and the Fellowship Degree, with the Pilgrim Degree being the highest honorific rank.

Educational and Retirement Initiatives

In addition to its community programs, the Moose Fraternity emphasizes the development of strong familial bonds among its members through shared activities and charitable endeavors. Mooseheart and Moosehaven remain core components of its mission, providing comprehensive support for children and seniors respectively.

Recent Developments

The organization continues to evolve, expanding its charitable and service initiatives. It has also developed internal programs such as Tommy Moose, which aids children in traumatic situations, and collaborates with external organizations like the Salvation Army and St. Jude.

Conclusion

The Loyal Order of Moose stands as a testament to the power of fraternal organizations in fostering community service and mutual aid. From its humble beginnings as a social club to its current status as a major service-oriented organization, the Loyal Order of Moose continues to support its members and wider communities through multifaceted programs and initiatives.