Membership

 No! You don't need to have been born in Britain. Women residing in the United States may be eligible through British or British Commonwealth heritage by birth, naturalization, or ancestry. Certain family connections through a spouse may also qualify. 

You may be eligible if you were born in, became a naturalized citizen of, or have ancestry from Britain or a British Commonwealth country.  answer to this item.

 You may also qualify if your spouse was born in Britain or a British Commonwealth country, or if your spouse's parent or grandparent was born there. 

No formal documentation is required. If you're unsure whether your family connection meets the membership guidelines, simply get in touch and we'll be happy to discuss it with you. n answer to this item.

Adult membership is available to eligible women. Junior membership is also available to eligible girls between the ages of 13 and 18. 

Each chapter has its own traditions and personality. Meetings provide opportunities for fellowship, chapter business, planning charitable activities, and enjoying time together. Chapters also organise a variety of social and cultural activities throughout the year. 

Most DBE chapters meet monthly. Individual chapter schedules may vary, and chapters often arrange additional social gatherings, outings, and special events throughout the year. 

DBE members enjoy a variety of activities, which may include afternoon teas, luncheons, holiday celebrations, cultural presentations, outings, fundraising events, and community service projects. Each chapter develops activities that reflect the interests of its members. 

Charitable service is central to DBE's mission. Members support The British Home (now Cantata), the British & Commonwealth Remembrance Project, and a variety of local charities and community organisations chosen by individual chapters. 

 Yes. Membership includes annual National and State dues, along with Chapter dues. Current dues are:

• National dues: $30
• Illinois State dues: $15
• Chapter dues: Vary by chapter

 Your total annual dues will therefore depend on the chapter you join. You can ask about the chapter's current dues when you get in touch. 

Absolutely! Prospective members are encouraged to visit a chapter as guests before accepting an invitation to join. It's a wonderful way to meet members, experience chapter activities, and get a feel for the organisation. 

Certainly! If you have multiple chapters within a convenient distance, we encourage you to visit more than one. Every chapter has its own personality, traditions, and group of members. We want you to find the chapter where you feel most at home. 

Please get in touch with DBE Illinois! We'd love to hear from you and discuss possible membership opportunities. We also welcome interest from women who would like to help establish a new chapter in their community. 

The first step is to contact DBE Illinois and express your interest. We'll be happy to discuss the possibilities and explain how to get started.