Heritage and Traditions
IODE is proud of its heritage and traditions. In 1900, Margaret Polson Murray of Montreal encouraged the formation of a federation of women to promote patriotism, loyalty and service to others.
The first chapter, Federation of the Daughters of the Empire, was formed in Fredericton, New Brunswick on 05 January 1900. Primary chapters were formed in quick succession across Canada as were junior chapters. In 1901, the Federation was incorporated as Imperial Order Daughters of the Empire and Children of the Junior Branch. IODE was incorporated as a Canadian women's organization by a special act of the Parliament of Canada in 1917. IODE TodayUnder the jurisdiction of the National Chapter of Canada IODE are Provincial, Municipal and Primary chapters across Canada. With approximately 4,000 members across Canada in more than 200 chapters, the IODE tradition of serving children, youth and those in need continues. The name IODE was officially adopted in the 1970's. We are a federally chartered charitable organization.
IODE Canada and our members across Canada undertake an extensive variety of charitable and philanthropic projects every year. These include financial assistance and contributions of time and effort to students, educational institutions, hospitals, the under-privileged and those in need. |