Since 1869, we have championed many great causes, keeping true to our promise to visit the sick, relieve the distressed, bury the dead, and educate the orphan.
The Odd Fellows Lodge of Columbia Missouri has greatly improved the chances for less-fortunate children to overcome loss and to develop the qualities needed for personal and vocational success as adults. For over a century this institution significantly contributed to this most humanitarian cause and to the development and distinct character of mid-Missouri. Specifically, IOOF today are dedicated to the following purposes:
To improve and elevate the character of mankind by promoting the principles of friendship, love, truth, faith, hope, charity and universal justice.
To help make the world a better place to live by aiding each other, the less fortunate, the youth, the elderly, the environment and the community in every way possible.
To promote good will and harmony amongst peoples and nations through the principle of universal fraternity, holding the belief that all men and women regardless of race, nationality, religion, social status, gender, rank and station are brothers and sisters.
Ideally, an Odd Fellows lodge is a place for fellowship in all its forms, from hanging out and just having fun, to discussion, to networking, to collaboration on creative and constructive projects, all with an eye not only on our own satisfaction but on what we might offer to the community at large. An ideal lodge is a great venue for a lot of positive energy and all members are encouraged to contribute their share. In addition, lodges provide an international social network of brothers and sisters that extends to more than 26 countries worldwide. If travelling is an interest, membership can provide a valuable network that will very much welcome an international visitor, and assist in their enterprises, and certainly their travels wherever possible.
Our Mission
“Do something for somebody, somewhere,
While jogging along life’s road,
Help somebody to carry his burden
And lighter will grow your load.
Do something for somebody, striving
To help where the way seems long
And the homeless hearts that languish
Cheer up with a little song.”
From poem titled “Do Something” (anonymous) in 1913 IOOF brochure describing the purpose of the IOOF. With those words in mind the Columbia Lodge has supported most of the charitable organizations in our community including The United Way, The Boys and Girls Club, Coyote Hill, The Rainbow House, True North, Columbia Public Schools, Daniel Boone Little League, Welcome Home, Youth Empowerment Zone, Truman VA Hospital, and many many more.
Does this sound like an organization that you could be a part of? Ask us how.