Columbia #2 Odd Fellows

Starting almost 150 years ago in Victoria, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows – Columbia Lodge No. 2 is an organization dedicated to the well being of others. Through the honorable values of Friendship, Love and Truth, the Odd Fellows strive to “visit the sick, bury the dead, relieve the distressed and educate the orphan”. Our fundraising revolves around these foundational tenants. The Odd Fellows Columbia Lodge has been in existence since 1874 in Victoria, BC. Since then, the Lodge has taken great pride in supporting the leading community events in support of those in need within our community; namely children, seniors and a multitude of health-awareness charities. In fact, if you were to review the financial support provided over the past 150 years – most charities in Victoria would have received funds from the Odd Fellows at one point or another; and all this with volunteers from all walks of life.

We structure our projects such that a subcommittee of engaged participants will drive a fundraising effort forward, with the understanding that our 60 plus active membership will support every cause with both labour and financial donations. We are also blessed to have a beautiful, spacious historical facility in the heart of downtown, which lends itself to assisting community events, which we actively support as well. For example, in the past the Odd Fellows provided the Victoria Symphony Splash with the use of the Odd Fellows Hall for volunteer training and end-of-event celebrations. Other events, such as Ghosts of the Plaza, a Victoria Heritage-sponsored theatrical performance, were provided the facility over a one month to stage their rehearsals and performances. Numerous other fundraising activities take place at the Lodge under the stewardship of members and their connections. 

The Independent Order of Odd Fellows

As an organization, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows aims to provide a framework that promotes personal and social development. Lodge degrees and activities aim to improve and elevate every person to a higher, nobler plane; to extend sympathy and aid to those in need, making their burdens lighter, relieving the darkness of despair; to war against vice in every form, and to be a great moral power and influence for the good of humanity.

Teachings in the Order are conducted through the exemplification of the Degrees of membership. The Degrees are conferred on the candidate by their Lodge, and are teachings of principles and truths by ceremonies and symbols. The Degrees are presented largely by means of allegory and drama. For Odd Fellows, the degrees in Odd Fellowship emphasizes a leaving of the old life and the start of a better one, of welcoming travelers, and of helping those in need.

Lodges also provide an international social network of brothers and sisters that extends to more than 26 countries worldwide. If traveling 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. The command of the IOOF is to “visit the sick, relieve the distressed, bury the dead and educate the orphan.” Around the world, the Odd Fellows undertake various community and charitable projects.