Why join Sons of Norway?

Wondering whether joining Sons of Norway is for you? Here are some commonly asked questions about Sons of Norway:

What is Sons of Norway? What is its purpose?

The mission of Sons of Norway includes the preservation of Norwegian heritage and culture. We are now the largest Norwegian organization outside Norway. The Leif Erikson Lodge 6-83 was formed in 1966 to bring the benefits of Sons of Norway to Salt Lake City and to assist in the preservation of Norwegian culture. Some of our ambitions include:

• Providing scholarships to students pursuing higher education with an interest in Norway and Scandinavia.

• Maintaining the Norwegian section of the International Peace Gardens, including the stabbur.

• Supporting our community through service and participating in the annual Syttende Mai celebration.

• Hosting regular events to teach Norwegian traditions and culture, including an annual Christmas party celebrating Norwegian music, dance, art, and food.

The dues and contributions of members help fund these efforts and more.

Is Sons of Norway only for men?

While Sons of Norway was founded as an insurance company by a group of men more than 130 years ago, its cultural program has always been open to all. In today's Sons of Norway, you will find women represented in all local leadership roles. In addition, the current leadership of the national Sons of Norway organization is comprised of five women and four men.

Do I have to be Norwegian or have Norwegian ancestry?

Not at all. We accept anyone who has an interest in helping maintain Norwegian culture and traditions as experienced in America, Canada, and Norway.

How much does it cost to join?

For individuals, a membership is $84 per year. For families (parents and children living at the same address), a membership is $124 per year.

What are the benefits of joining?

Sons of Norway has prepared a helpful guide to the benefits of being a member of Sons of Norway. This PDF covers all the benefits, including a subscription to Viking Magazine and various discounts available to members. Be sure to read it!

Most of all, though, the benefit of being a member of Sons of Norway is knowing that you are contributing to the preservation of Norwegian culture in Utah and surrounding areas. Through Sons of Norway, you can establish lasting friendships, create or revive traditions, and enhance your understanding--and your family's understanding--of your connection to Norway and the faith and courage of those who journeyed here.

Do I have to buy insurance?

No, but that's a surprisingly frequent question. To explain: Sons of Norway was organized as a fraternal benefit society by 18 Norwegian immigrants in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on January 16, 1895. The purposes and goals of the Founders were to protect members of Sons of Norway and their families from the financial hardships experienced during times of sickness or death in the family. Over time, the mission of Sons of Norway has expanded to include the preservation of Norwegian heritage and culture in our Society. We have grown since our beginning and are now the largest Norwegian organization outside Norway.

However, if you are interested in life insurance or annuities, Sons of Norway carries a variety of products that may benefit you. Learn more here: https://www.sofn.com/financial_products/products_we_offer/

Are Sons of Norway activities geared primarily toward adults?

We try to provide a range of events and activities for all ages. Looking back over the last two years of events, only the Ski for Light service project might have been difficult for younger children to participate in. While some activities may be more meaningful to adults, children and grandchildren are always welcome--even encouraged--to come. After all, it is difficult to pass on traditions and culture without the participation of the next generations!

What is the relationship between the national Sons of Norway organization and the local organization?

All Sons of Norway local lodges are chartered by the national organization, headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Each lodge operates under the national organization's rules and guidelines but are free to hold activities and events appropriate to their location.

Who runs Sons of Norway in Utah? How are leaders selected?

There is currently only one Sons of Norway unit in Utah: Leif Erikson Lodge 6-83. It received its charter from the national Sons of Norway organization in 1966 and has operated continuously since. Leaders are nominated from among the membership and voted on in elections. Local lodge leaders serve without pay. You can learn more about the current leadership of the Leif Erikson Lodge 6-83 on our About page: https://www.sonsofnorwayutah.org/about.

Where can I get an idea of what goes on in Sons of Norway?

You can see a list of the last two years of events and activities on the Events page of our website: https://www.sonsofnorwayutah.org/events

How long has Sons of Norway been in Utah?

The first unit of Sons of Norway in Utah was formed in Salt Lake City in November, 1966. You can read more about the early years of Sons of Norway in Utah here: Humble and Hopeful Beginnings

What is the difference between sofn.com and sonsofnorwayutah.org?

The first URL is for the national Sons of Norway website. It is where you go when you join Sons of Norway or renew your membership. It is also where you go to enjoy member benefits like the online version of Viking Magazine and the Sons of Norway Recipe Box.

The second URL is for members of the Leif Erikson Lodge 6-83. This is where you can find out what is going on with Sons of Norway in Utah, including upcoming events, news and resources relevant to the Utah area.

Can I attend Sons of Norway events if I am not a member of Sons of Norway?

Of course! We welcome everyone at our events and want to share our love of Norway and its culture with as many people as possible. And we hope that all who come will be inspired to share their talents, knowledge, and experience with us.

Naturally, we would love it if you (and your family) join Sons of Norway, so that we can grow our organization and fulfill its mission. If you haven't already, read the "What are the benefits of joining?" section above on how being a member of Sons of Norway can benefit you and your family.

Ready to join or re-activate your membership? Just click on the button below. Be sure to select Leif Erikson Lodge 6-83 (Salt Lake City). Still have questions? Click on the blue chat box in the lower right corner and we will reply as soon as we can.

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