B'nai B'rith is the oldest and largest of the national Jewish service organizations in the United States. It was founded in New York City in 1843 to unite "persons of the Jewish faith in the work of promoting their highest interests and those of humanity." B'nai B'rith sponsored Americanization classes, trade schools, and relief programs for immigrants, including aiding Jews to leave the East coast of the United States and settle in other parts of the country. B'nai B'rith created the Anti-Defamation League in 1913 to strengthen cooperation among different religions and to protect the status and rights of Jews. B'nai B'rith also founded the Hillel Foundation, which looks at the religious, cultural, and social needs of students, as well as B'nai B'rith Youth Organization (BBYO). B'nai B'rith is now the oldest and largest Jewish Service organization in the world. The lodges, youth organizations, and women's chapters are located throughout the world.
The B'nai B'rith Denver Lodge No. 171 received its charter from the Independent Order of B'nai B'rith on April 7, 1972. David Kline was the first president. The Denver Lodge developed out of the Denver Hebrew Cemetery Association. Lodge No. 171 has been very active in Colorado and the Lodge was one of the largest in the West. When the Ku Klux Klan rose to power in Colorado politics, the Denver Lodge organized the Anti-Defamation League to battle the Klan. During World War II the Denver Lodge sent packages to soldiers, promoting the sale of War Bonds, and raising funds for the Red Cross. One of the largest projects of Lodge 171 was the establishment of the National Jewish Hospital for Consumptives in 1899. In addition, Lodge 171 established the West Side Boys Club to help juvenile delinquents. The Denver Lodge is currently involved in restoring the Jewish cemetery in Leadville.
The B'nai B'rith Youth Organization is comprised of the Aleph Zadeck Aleph (AZA) boys group and the B'nai B'rith Girls (BBG). The Rocky Mountain Region includes the organizations within a seven state area. The organizations have leadership training and social and recreational programs.
From the guide to the Independent Order of B'nai B'rith Lodge 171 (Denver, Colo.) records, 1872-1993, (Ira M. Beck Memorial Archives, Special Collections and Archives, Penrose Library, University of Denver, 2150 E. Evans Ave., Denver, CO 80208-2007)
