For 100 years, the Royal Oak Eagles have lived by a simple motto: "People Helping People." As the organization celebrates its centennial in 2026, members are reflecting on a century of charitable giving, friendship and community involvement that has made the club lasting part of Royal Oak's history.

Founded in 1926 as Union Aerie #2092, the Royal Oak Eagles marked the milestone with a weekend-long celebration on June 27 and 28, including an open house, special events and opportunities for members and the public to honor the organization's legacy.

While the Eagles are often known as a social club, charity has always been at the heart of their mission. Through local fundraising efforts and support of national Fraternal Order of Eagles initiatives, members help fund research, patient care, and support services for a wide range of health challenges.

Among the causes supported by the Eagles are diabetes, cancer, heart disease, kidney disease, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and spinal cord injuries. Funds raised by local members contribute to research programs and patient assistance efforts across the country, helping advance treatments and improve lives.

Closer to home, the Royal Oak Eagles proudly support Gilda's Club Metro Detroit, located on Rochester Road in Royal Oak. The organization's cancer support community offers more than 170 free programs designed to help individuals and families navigate a cancer diagnosis.

Gilda's Club provides educational resources, healthy lifestyle programs, support groups, networking opportunities, and referrals for those living with cancer, as well as their caregivers, friends, and family members. Services are also available to individuals grieving the loss of a loved one to cancer.

Each year, both the Royal Oak Eagles and the club's Royal Oak Eagle Riders motorcycle group organize events to benefit Gilda's Club. One of the most successful is the annual motorcycle show, held this past May. Funds raised through the event are submitted through the Eagles' national organization, where grants can be matched, effectively doubling the impact of local donations.

Beyond their house charity, the Eagles support additional causes selected each year by the Aerie president and auxiliary madam president. Recent beneficiaries have included Common Ground, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, veterans support programs, and organizations
serving injured service members.

Community support is only part of what keeps members coming back. The Eagles clubhouse remains a lively gathering place where friendships are formed and traditions continue. Regular activities include shuffleboard leagues, pool nights, karaoke, live entertainment, and special events throughout the year.

The organization's facilities have also evolved to meet the needs of the community. A spacious second-floor hall with a full kitchen and bar is available for private events, while an outdoor patio created during the COVID-19 pandemic proved so popular that it became a permanent addition to the property.

Located in the heart of downtown Royal Oak, the Eagles are within walking distance of the Farmers Market, Centennial Commons, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making the club an active part of the city's social fabric.

As Union Aerie #2092 enters its second century, members remain committed to the same values that guided the organization in 1926: helping neighbors, supporting worthy causes and creating a welcoming place where community comes first.

After 100 years of service, the Royal Oak Eagles are already looking ahead to the next century of making a difference—one act of kindness at a time.