Local fraternal organizations are groups of people who freely come together for a beneficial purpose. Local fraternal organizations can perform many different functions. Some raise money for charity, and some are service organizations for a particular community. They can promote interest in the arts, education, or religion. Fraternal organizations can have both male and female members. Local fraternal organizations can include service clubs, guilds, honor societies and many other community organizations. Fraternal organizations existed in Greek and Roman times. The eighteenth century saw the beginnings of Freemasonry, which provided a model for groups that followed. One very well-known type of local fraternal organization is the college fraternity or sorority. Though college fraternities are associated with crazy pranks, drunken parties, and strange initiation ceremonies, the college fraternity also can raise money for charity or can help with service projects around campus. Many times they provide housing, friendship and support for their members. Many fraternities and sororities have local chapters which belong to a national organization. Another type of local fraternal organization is the service club. These clubs raise money for worthy causes, and help people all over the world by building hospitals, schools, and running programs for people in need. Many service organizations have local chapters which are governed by a national organization. The national organization helps with fund-raising. The Benevolent Protective Order of Elks is a large American fraternal organization. It has nearly a million members. All members must be over the age of twenty-one, believe in God, and be American citizens. The national headquarters also known as "The Grand Lodge" is located in Chicago Illinois. There are local lodges in approximately 2,100 cities throughout The United States. There is also a lodge in The Philippines which is composed of American citizens.
