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.
Members of the Order are organized across the United States and Canada by state/province as Branches, and locally in Unions and Circles.
Branch
“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. The Ontario Branch was established in 1891. The number of Circles in Ontario Branch has fluctuated over the years; however, there are currently seven Circles in Ontario Branch.
Circle
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 (and Branch level – if one exists). Each Circle usually has a particular focus for their service which is often to raise funds and support for local charities or community services.
The Ontario Branch Circles are:
Adanac Circle
Autism Circle
Chautauqua Circle
Faith Circle (Southern Ontario-based Circle)
IOKDS Literacy Circle (virtual Circle)
Starlights/Junior Circle
Vista Circle
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.
In Ontario, the “Ottawa City Union” was organized in 1983. Each of the six Ottawa-based Circle appoints a member to act as the representative of their Circle at the Ottawa City Union meetings.