Coatesville Lodge No 297 Loyal Order of Moose

Coatesville Lodge No 297 is a local chapter of the Loyal Order of Moose, a fraternal and service organization known as Moose International. Located in Pennsylvania, this lodge is part of a broader network of similar lodges across the United States and Canada, contributing to community service and charitable causes.

History

The Loyal Order of Moose, from which Coatesville Lodge No 297 originates, was founded in 1888 by Dr. John Henry Wilson in Louisville, Kentucky. Initially intended as a men's social club, it evolved under the leadership of James J. Davis in the early 20th century into a vibrant organization focused on community support and service[1][3].

Mission and Activities

Like other Loyal Order of Moose lodges, Coatesville Lodge No 297 is involved in various community service activities. These efforts often include supporting local charities, participating in health-oriented initiatives, and engaging in civic projects. The lodge also contributes to broader Moose International initiatives such as Mooseheart Child City & School and Moosehaven, a retirement community for members[2][3].

Community Contributions

As a fraternal beneficiary society, Coatesville Lodge No 297 plays a role in generating funds and organizing volunteer efforts within its community. The Moose organization as a whole conducts substantial community service, with members contributing more than $70 million annually in monetary donations and volunteer hours[3].

Structure and Affiliation

Coatesville Lodge No 297 operates as a part of the Moose International organization, which includes a network of men's lodges and women's chapters across North America and beyond. The organization's headquarters is located in Mooseheart, Illinois[1][5].

The lodge is a recognized 501(c)(8) fraternal beneficiary society, indicating its status as a nonprofit organization providing benefits to members while also engaging in community service[2][4].

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loyal_Order_of_Moose [2] https://www.charitynavigator.org/ein/230822990 [3] https://dgmoose.net/loyal-order-of-moose/ [4] https://givefreely.com/charity-directory/nonprofit/ein-230822990/ [5] http://www.geocities.ws/moose1478/history.html