Sigma Alpha Epsilon was founded in 1856 at the University of Alabama and has since established 245 chapters inducting over 300,000 members. It operates the 85-year-old Sigma Alpha Epsilon Foundation to accept donations and maintain its headquarters in Evanston, Illinois. Since 1899, the fraternity has upheld a creed of being a "True Gentleman" and inspires members to serve through its annual True Gentleman Day of Service and affiliation with National Youth Service Day.