The International Order of The King’s Daughters and Sons (IOKDS) is an international, interdenominational organization of Christian men and women whose aim is to carry out religious, educational, and philanthropic projects in their communities. The Headquarters office is located on the grounds of the Chautauqua Institution in Chautauqua, NY.
Members of the Order are organized across the United States and Canada by state/province as Branches, and locally in Unions and Circles. Individuals who wish to join IOKDS, but do not have a Circle in their area, may join as a “member-at-large”.
What awaits you as a member?
As a member, you have the opportunity to…
- make lasting friendships with people from all backgrounds and ages;
- use your talents and grow your experiences;
- receive and give inspiration, comfort and joy;
- improve the lives of people in your community and globally; and,
- add to the legacy of an interdenominational group with more than 133 years of service.
Circle Membership
The Circle is the unit of membership in the organization. Three or more members may organize a Circle, adopting their own rules and conducting their own affairs in any manner consistent with the policies at the International level. Each Circle usually has a particular focus for their service which is often to raise funds and support for particular charities or community services, or to organize and deliver their own service programs e.g. dental support programs for children, school backpack programs, etc). Circle members also promote interest in IOKDS by supporting the various International programs and services.
Member-at-Large
Individuals, who reside in an area without a Branch and are not members of a Circle, may become members of IOKDS as members-at-large. Members-at-large of a Branch are those individuals who do not belong to a Circle in the Branch.
Branch Membership
“Branch” is the name given to the subdivision of the organization, in a geographic sense, by state or province. In any of the United States, or Canadian provinces, one or more Circles having fifty enrolled members of IOKDS may nominate a Branch President and establish a Branch.
Chapter Membership
Whenever fifty or more members of IOKDS choose a special activity, they may organize a Chapter. Membership in a Chapter is in addition to Circle membership and may include members from any geographic location. An example is the Chautauqua Chapter whose focus is on all activities related to Chautauqua Institution.
Districts, County, and City Unions
In some areas, the members may also decide to form a District, County, or City Union. Unions are often created to support and coordinate the charitable works of Circles within a City or District especially on larger projects – e.g. community housing, hospitals, retirement homes, schools, etc.
Junior Membership
Junior Membership is for those from birth through seventeen years inclusive.
With the guidance of adult members, they may join into Circles, carry out many projects, programs, activities, and enjoy holding office or being chairman of a committee.
Eligibility
Any person may become a member of the International Order of The King’s Daughters and Sons whose purposes and aims are in accord with its objects and who holds themselves responsible to The King, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. (IOKDS Bylaws, Art. III)
Dues
All members pay dues annually. Dues are set in the following ways:
- The International portion of dues is set by the membership at the Annual Conference;
- Some Branches will set an additional amount to support Branch work;
- Some City or District/County Unions may add a fee;
- Some Circles may decide to add a Circle fee; and
- Chapters add a small fee.
For more information about Ontario Branch dues, please contact info@thekingsdaughtersandsons.com.