ILLINOIS GRAND LODGE STATE PROGRAMS
The Independent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF) Illinois Grand Lodge actively engages in various state programs dedicated to fostering the principles of "Friendship, Love, and Truth." These programs encompass a wide range of initiatives aimed at making a positive impact on communities across the state.
The IOOF Illinois Grand Lodge is actively involved in diverse state programs, aiming to make a positive impact on various aspects of community life. The Scholarship Committee, since 1985, has awarded over $600,000 in scholarships to deserving students across the state, reflecting our commitment to education. The Visual Research Program adds another dimension to our initiatives, providing support for visual research endeavors. Additionally, the Grand Lodge, in collaboration with local entities, actively participates in the D.A.R.E Program, contributing to the advancement of drug abuse resistance education. Beyond education, the IOOF Illinois Grand Lodge manages housing initiatives, offering support for the elderly and youth, demonstrating a holistic approach to community welfare. We are proud of our involvement with the Children’s Home and feel it showcases our dedication to providing a nurturing environment for children in need.
The Odd Fellows' Children's Home
The IOOF Illinois Grand Lodge Children's Home, situated on 158 acres of land, is a compassionate haven providing care and support for children facing various challenges, offering a nurturing environment for their well-being and development.
Your Children’s Home Board:
Tim Bright-Secretary, Melissa Richards-President, Geoff Engel-member, Janis Klockenga-VP, Dan Davis-member, fr: Bonnie Hensley-member, Luanne Fuller-member.
Serving the needs of nearly 1,700 children in residence since 1893.
Providing Day Care facilities to over 1000 youngsters since 1977 721 Wyatt Ave, Lincoln, IL.
Youth Activities Promotional Fund Grant available for Lodges to apply for annually.
We also sesnd three Youth 16 years of age on a Pilgrimage to our country's historical sites in Pittsburg Pensylvania, Washing DC, & New York City.
Click for more information.
View Point with Bill Gossett, Darlene Wick, and Janis Klockenga.
Scholarship Programs
The IOOF Illinois Grand Lodge scholarship program, established in 1985, has awarded over $600,000 to deserving students throughout the state, embodying a commitment to supporting education and fostering academic excellence.
Your Scholarship Committee:
Donna Grable-President, Kent Staley-member, Dan Davis-member, Clara Kay Nott-member, Bonnie Hensley-member, Janis Klockenga-Secretary, Not pictured Darlene Wick-member, Cynthia Elam-member, Fran Davis-member.
Scholarships are presented to qualified, needy students.
10 to 20 $1,000.00 academic scholarships annually.
10 to 20 $500.00 agricultural scholarships annually.
Eligible students from throughout Illinois may make application through the Grand Lodge Office in Lincoln. Visit the Scholarship Program page for more information.
Visual Research Program
Illinois is proud to be one of thirty-five States and five Canadian Provinces that have contracts with the Odd Fellow and Rebekah Visual Research Foundation for local eye problems.
JURISDICTIONAL PROJECTS
- Purchase of equipment for Medical
- Schools and Eye Clinics
- Operation of Eye Banks
- Amblyopia screening
- Support for Ophthalmological Research
- Operation of low-vision clinics
- Purchase of Eyeglasses for needy and elderly
- Mobile eye exam units
- Printing of Odd Fellow and - Rebekah Rituals in Braille
- Collecting eyeglasses for third-world countries
- Sale and donation of big eye lamps
CLICK HERE to view brochure.
D.A.R.E. Program
The Grand Lodge of Illinois along with lodges statewide supports and actively participates in the D.A.R.E. Program.
Lodges work on an individual basis with local D.A.R.E. Officers by supplying D.A.R.E. shirts, pencils, and rulers to graduates of the program. The members of the Independent Order of Oddfellows are proud to participate in this worthy community project. Please get in touch with the Grand Secretaries office via the Contact Us section of this website for more information on how you may participate.
Illinois Grand Lodge State Programs Forms
The Illinois Scholarship forms are found on the Scholarship Program page.
State Programs
Oddfellow-Rebekah Home
Built in 1898, Odd Fellow – Rebekah Home‘s original building was part of a private community consisting of a farm, housing for staff, and “The Old Folks Home.” The old 3-story building was torn down and replaced in 1976 with our current single-story building. The Alzheimer’s unit was added in 1996. Our facility is owned by the Odd Fellows Organization and the Rebekah Assembly of Illinois and is operated by Heritage Enterprises.
Odd Fellow-Rebekah Home
201 Lafayette Avenue East, Mattoon, IL 61938
PH. (217) 235-5449
- 120-bed skilled nursing facility
- Private and semi Private room accommodations
- Round-the-clock nursing care
- Dietician supervised meals and snacks
- On-site laundry for clothing and linens
- Full-time fire protection and security
- All-faith church services
- Beauty and barbershop
- Various activities
- Rehab to Home
- 42-bed Alzheimer Wing
- Out-patient therapy
Your Odd Fellow Rebekah Home Board:
Kent Staley-Treaurer, Dick Jones PGM, Charlie Campbell, PGM, Greg Worrell, PGM, Linda Jones, PPRA, Carolyn Waker, Donna Grable, PPRA.
Oddfellow-Rebekah Housing Inc.
You are welcome to the Fellowship Center, where you’re offered apartment living built just for low-income seniors and the disabled. Our facility is located in Mattoon, Illinois next to the Odd-Fellow Rebekah Nursing Home. You can be assured you are choosing the best senior living facility in the area, as we’ve been in business since 1982. We’re celebrating our 32nd year in business. Stop in and you’ll appreciate the modern and secure building that houses 122 clean, one-bedroom apartments. Everything you could need is right here on campus! Learn more about the amenities offered.
Join one of the nicest senior living facilities in the area!
Stop by anytime for a complimentary tour and see for yourself.
Fellowship Center
301 Lafayette Ave.
East, Mattoon, IL 61938z
Phone: 217-235-5414z
Email: fellowshipctr@consolidated.net
Heritage Apartments in Buffalo, Williamsville, and Illiopolis of Illinois is the sister facility to the Fellowship Center in Mattoon.
Heritage Apartments Locations:
406-410 S. Main St. Buffalo, IL 62539
180 N. Elkhart St. Williamsville, IL 62693
145 S. 5th St. Illiopolis, IL 62539
Office: 217-364-4828
Mobile: 217-341-6453
Email: oddfellowh@yahoo.com
Friendship Manor is located on the property of the former Odd Fellow’s Children’s Home.
Choose our residential facility where you’ll be welcomed with comfortable apartments, plenty of amenities, and friendly neighbors all for a price within your budget. You’ll feel at home with a comfortable living space, neutral decor, and ample storage. You’ll have it all here! Chapel, grocery, and beauty salon among other amenities with rural views! Income limitations are mandated by H.U.D. Rent is 30% of your adjusted gross income! Get an affordable and comfortable apartment.
Friendship Manor 925 Primm Rd, Lincoln, IL 62656
Phone: (217) 732-9647
