The Order of the Eastern Star is the largest fraternal organization in the world that both men and women can join. It has approximately 10,000 chapters in 20 countries. Its symbol is a five-pointed star. Members of the Order are men who are Masons and women with specific Masonic relationships.

The Order has a charitable foundation and from 1986-2001 contributed $513,147 to Alzheimers disease research, juvenile diabetes research, juvenile asthma research, and also provides bursaries to students of theology and religious music. In 2000 over $83,000 was donated.