The International Order of Alhambra
The Order of Alhambra was founded in Brooklyn, New York in 1904. It was named after a palace in Granada, Spain; where the Moors after occupying Spain for almost 800 years surrendered to Ferdinand and Isabella in 1492. Members belong to Caravans and our local unit is called Diego Caravan #255, Chartered in Englewood, Florida in 1997.
The Order of Alhambra provides direct financial assistance and service through its programs/projects that support institutions or organizations dedicated to serving persons with developmental disabilities. It also makes donations to private schools educating developmentally disabled children and providing them with vocational skills. In the last ten years the Order of Alhambra provided grants and/or loans to build or renovate buildings, which are constructed or purchased to house 4 to 6 developmentally disabled residents throughout North America, including Jamaica, West Indies.
The Order of Alhambra is international in scope, as there are subordinate Caravans located throughout the United States and Canada. Soon it is hoped that we will add Caravans in Jamaica, West Indies and the Philippines. The headquarters of the International organization is located in Baltimore, Maryland. Administration is carried out by a thirteen member Council of Viziers that is elected at a biennial convention.
The Order of Alhambra provides scholarships to college juniors and seniors who are enrolled in the field of Special Education, and who after certification will teach developmentally disabled students during their careers.
Diego Caravan provides support, aid and assistance to the Loveland Center, STAR, and other organizations and their many developmentally disabled students, programs, and projects right here in Southwest Florida. Ninety percent of all money raised locally for charity stays right here in the Englewood, Rotunda and Port Charlotte areas.
The members of the Order focus on sociability and fund raising to advance its goals and objectives. The wives and lady friends of members are an integral part of these functions. The sociability aspect provides camaraderie and lasting friendships. Fund raising provides the means to conduct the charitable programs and projects of the Order of Alhambra.
Membership in our Order is open to Catholic men who have a desire to help and support God’s Special People. You’ll love the work we do. Contact us or any of our Sir Nobles if you are interested.