As a non-profit organization governed by its members, the lodges are where it all begins. The lodge system gives each member a voice in the governing of the business, and gives each member the opportunity to develop leadership skills through officer positions and to improve their communities through service projects.

Woodmen of the World members share a commitment to family, community and country, and the Woodmen of the World lodge system is a vital part of the thousands of volunteer activities our organization conducts each year. Woodmen of the World members belong to local lodges. Lodge dues are used to fund the lodges' social, community and patriotic projects as well as other costs involved with running the lodges. The lodge members elect officers to lead the lodge and elect delegates to the Jurisdictional and National Conventions. Delegates at the National Convention are responsible for electing Woodmen of the World's Board of Directors.

Simply put, lodge members have fun while socializing, volunteering and providing leadership. While Woodmen of the World was created for the financial and social well-being of its members, it also plays a role in communities across the country.

Lodge benefits for your community include:

• Volunteer opportunities — Members interested in philanthropic activities can become part of the lodge's volunteer network by providing hands-on service to help meet the needs of people in the community.
• U.S. flags and other patriotic projects — Woodmen of the World provides U.S. flags to local lodges for presentation to nonprofit civic and youth groups, schools, chruches, community centers and other worthy groups. Copies of The American Patriot's Handbook are presented by lodges to new citizens, libraries and schools. American History Awards are presented to junior and senior high school students who excell in the study of American history.
• Matching-funds community projects — Woodmen of the World matches lodge dollars, within certain guidelines, that help members provide community needs and to improve their own meeting halls and camp facilities.
• Woodmen of the World/Red Cross Disaster Action Teams — Woodmen of the World Disaster Action Teams provide an essential service to their communities. Through the local lodge, members receive Red Cross training in disaster assistance. You can become part of Woodmen of the World's nationwide member-network of disaster relief volunteers in partnership woth the American Red Cross.
• Award and recognition for lodge and community service — Lodges present a variety of plaques, awards and pins to recognize and honor members as well as individuals in their communities who have excelled or served with distinction.

• Find a lodge near you.

Youth lodges

Adult lodges also sponsor youth lodges where Woodmen of the World members from ages eight to 15 can participate in a variety of youth-oriented activities. These youth lodges organize their own community service projects. Most areas host senior and youth camps throughout the summer.

Woodmen of the World lodges participate in the following annual events:

• JOIN HANDS DAY, May
• Flags Across America, June 14 (Flag Day)
• In Honor And Remembrance, September 11
• Make A Difference Day, October