Portland, Maine · Since 1886

Get Involved

A Lodge Is Built by Those Who Take Part

Becoming a Member

Learn the Work

As members work through the different positions in the lodge, they learn responsibility to their Brothers and Sisters, how to uphold the values of the IOOF, and why attending and helping at lodge functions matters.

That learning is practical: ritual roles, speaking before a group, respectful debate, leadership and mentoring, formal meeting procedure, committee work, recordkeeping, finance, and the care of lodge property and historical materials.

Ritual & Meeting Practice

Take part in lodge ritual, learn different roles accurately, and understand formal business meetings through Robert’s Rules of Order.

Speaking, Debate & Leadership

Speak or read before a group, debate disagreement respectfully, lead with confidence, and mentor others who wish to learn.

Committees, Events & Administration

Work with others on committee plans, events, and fundraisers; run a meeting; keep minutes; and maintain important records properly.

Stewardship of the Lodge

Maintain financial records and budgets, promote the lodge through social and traditional media, and care for property, tenants, documents, and artifacts.

As Responsibility Grows

Carry Responsibility

As members take on more of the work of the lodge, their responsibility may extend beyond Portland. Past Grands may represent their lodge at Grand Lodge Session, work on jurisdiction-wide committees, and assist other lodges when they need help.

Member

-Attend and help with lodge functions.
-Learn ritual roles and meeting practice.
-Work alongside other members.

Lodge Officer

-Run meetings and mediate disagreement.
-Manage records, budgets, assets, and property.
-Serve as trustee charged with the care of the lodge hall and its history.

Past Grand

-Represent the lodge at Grand Lodge Session and take part in votes on legislation.
-Work on statewide committees, write proposals and bills, and conduct Order business when called upon.
-Assist individual lodges as a coach and consultant; manage membership information, investments, and assets responsibly.

What Can You Do for Us?

Bring What You Know

The Order is made up almost entirely of men and women who volunteer their time and talents. This grassroots approach allows the lodge to direct most of what it takes in toward helping others.

Website & Social Media

Assist with building and managing websites and social media for lodges and Grand Lodges.

Community Relations

Act as a liaison between the IOOF and other community organizations and foundations.

Accounting & Data

Use organizational and accounting skills to help with data, financial records, and the management of lodge assets.

Fundraisers & Events

Help organize fundraisers, events, and awareness campaigns.

Arts, Music & Writing

Use drama, art, music, and writing to make lodge life a fun and enriching social experience.

Marketing & PR

Promote the IOOF on a local and national scale.

Leadership

Engage, empower, and motivate other members.

Grant Work & Goals

Use grant-writing and grant-management skills; help set and accomplish short- and long-term goals for the lodge.