What is the Odd Fellows and Rebekahs United Nations Pilgrimage for Youth

What is the Odd Fellows and Rebekahs United Nations Pilgrimage for Youth? Homepage

This unique Educational Program was established by The Sovereign Grand Lodge Independent Order of Odd Fellows in 1949 when the United Nations was just a four year old “toddler.” Annually the UN Pilgrimage brings together high school students from around the world to study and learn about the United Nations. For young adults interested in world affairs, international relations, economics and/or political sciences this is an opportunity of a lifetime to observe the United Nations in person while exchanging views on education, politics and religion. Students tour the United Nations building and listen to behind-the-scenes briefings conducted by specialized United Nations agencies and departments including Ambassadors, Minister Counselors and Country Representatives. Each student (delegate) will participate in in-depth discussions with other young people from around the world as well as make new and lifelong friends. In addition, students experience one of the greatest cities in the world: New York. Attending a Broadway play; St. Patrick's Cathedral, Rockefeller Center and much more.

In the years since it was established, over 43,000 people have participated in the UN Pilgrimage. Growing in popularity, the Odd Fellows and Rebekahs United Nations Pilgrimage for Youth program has been garnering growing public attention in the United States, Canada and abroad. The National Association of Secondary School Principals has placed this program on the advisory List of National Contests and Activities.

When are tours conducted?

Tours are conducted during the summer and vary from six to twelve days in duration. Exact tour dates are usually announced in March by the The Sovereign Grand Lodge Independent Order of Odd Fellows

Which students are eligible?

Competition is open to all high school students 16 or 17 years of age at the time of travel with a minimum of one year of high school remaining. Applications are reviewed by the selection committee for evidence of leadership, character, concern for community welfare, interest in world affairs and general fitness. Each applicant is required to write an essay and also participate in a local speech contest.

A valid PASSPORT is required by the Odd Fellows and Rebekahs United Nations Pilgrimage for Youth for EVERYONE participating in the program. It will be used at all border crossings and at airports. Homepage

United States Citizens click on the following link for passport information: http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html
Canadian Citizens can click on the following link for passport information: http://www.ppt.gc.ca/
Citizens of other countries will need to check with their own government for passport information. In some cases visas may be required by government agencies

How much does it cost?

Expenses including transportation, meals, lodging, and sightseeing are paid by the sponsoring Odd Fellows and Rebekah lodges in your community, county, district, state or province, and donations by corporations and individuals. The tour fee paid by the sponsoring unit of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.
The student must provide spending money for souvenirs, laundry, shopping, extra refreshments and some entertainment. Parents (or Legal Guardians) must give written permission for the student to attend the program and agree to pay for student's return trip when an accident, illness or misbehavior prevents further participation in the tour.

Who sponsors the students?

Odd Fellows and Rebekah Lodges. The Odd Fellows and Rebekahs United Nations Pilgrimage for Youth program is funded by fund-raising activities and donations of the many dedicated members of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, along with corporate and individual donations. This non-profit fraternal organization has sponsored over 43,000 students since the program's inception in 1949!

After more than a half century, the members of Odd Fellows and Rebekah lodges continue to proudly inspire the young people of today to pursue global agendas that will enable them to help their communities relate to world affairs in the future.

Where does one apply?

Students should contact their local Odd Fellows or Rebekah lodge or school authorities for their application today! To find a sponsoring group you may also contact The UN Pilgrimage for a referral to your regional UN Pilgrimage Chairman.

Application

Students or Delegate Sponsors may download an application here; however, Students must apply through their local sponsoring group and comply with their requirements. To find a sponsoring group you may also contact Oregon Grand Lodge or phone 503 236 9300 Mon – Thurs, 8:30am – 4:30pm for a referral to your regional UN Pilgrimage Chairman. Click Here to download an application (MS Word Document). You print the word document and then complete the other items. Click Here for instructions on how to apply and application process.

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