ABOUT THE IBPOEW

Incorporated in 1898, the IBPOEW has grown to over 500,000 members in over 1,500 lodges worldwide, making it the largest Black fraternal organization in the world.

 

Our Mission

To practice charity by providing and performing charitable services in our communities throughout the world and by promoting harmony, friendship, and unity among our esteemed members.

Elks Distribute Easter Baskets
 
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Our Purpose

In order that fraternal organization be perpetuated, and that a government be provided for such; that the welfare and happiness of its members be promoted and enhanced; that the nobleness of soul and goodness of heart be cultivated; that the principles of Charity, Justice, Brotherly and Sisterly Love and Fidelity be inculcated; that its members and their families be assisted and protected and that the spirit of patriotism be enlivened and exalted.

Our Organization

Through the efforts of its members and various departments, the Elks sponsor extensive educational scholarship programs, youth summer computer literacy camps, and children with special needs, parades and unequaled community service activities throughout the world. A few of the major departments of the Elks are:

  • Grand Lodge Education Department

  • History Department

  • Medical Department

  • Veterans Affairs Department

 

  • National Youth Department

  • Civil Liberties Department

  • Antlered Guard Department

  • Hobson R. Reynolds National Shrine Department

About Fraternal Organizations

Fraternal organizations proved popular among African Americans for the same reasons that they proved popular among other Americans: providing financial, spiritual, and emotional aid, they were invaluable to the communities they served. African American fraternities, however, had the added purpose of improving self- esteem. First instituted during slavery, the membership, rituals, uniforms, and offices of these societies generated a respect not available outside of the lodges. Fully committed to economic, personal, and academic advancement, fraternal organizations have played a vital role in every phase of the African American experience.

One such organization is the Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks of the World (IBPOEW). Currently boasting 500,000 members in over 1,500 lodges worldwide, the IBPOEW is the largest Black fraternal organization in the world.