In New York State, some of the programs supported include Emergency Relief Fund, Social Service, Cheer Fund, volunteer service to Veteran's Hospitals, and Education Assistance. Many local charities benefit from Eastern Star donations. Secret societies are underground and hard to find. Only members are allowed in a closed meeting. Financial position is not considered in the Order.
Members come from all economic stations of life.
Members of all religions may belong to the Order of the Eastern Star. We only require a belief in a Supreme Being. After your Initiation into our Order during a regular meeting, you may attend as your time permits. There is no mandatory memory work except the means of making yourself known if you wish to visit a Chapter, or if you become an officer. A short proficiency examination is strictly voluntary, but encouraged.