What is a fraternal benefit society?

Everence is a member-owned fraternal benefit society, meaning it’s a nonprofit that provides financial security to its members and their beneficiaries. As an organization under the IRS’ 501(c)(8) designation, Everence can use funds that would otherwise be paid in taxes to support members like you, as well as your community and the causes you care about.
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Our history

Fraternal benefit societies were established starting in the 1860s, built on a cultural heritage or a religious tradition. There are more than 50 fraternal benefit societies in the United States, with over 7.3 million members.

Everence, originally called Mennonite Mutual Aid, became a fraternal benefit society in 1966.

Everence is built on the religious tradition of Anabaptism, and our bylaws state that our purpose is to associate members of Anabaptist groups, as well as those who subscribe to the Anabaptist interpretation of Christian stewardship.

Fraternal organizations like Everence operate local chapters, where fraternal members can gather and help those in their communities. Everence has nine local chapters, based on where our members reside.

Supporting members and strengthening communities through charitable and fraternal efforts is the heart of a fraternal organization.

Core principles

Fraternal benefit societies were established with two core principles:

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Mutual aid

Members helping each other and their communities.
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Financial security

Helping members be financially self-sufficient.

What does it mean to be an Everence fraternal member?

As a member, you have access to benefits, such as grants, insurance, college scholarships, and a will preparation rebate.

Taxes saved on our fraternal products (Medicare Supplement and annuities) are used for these member benefits, as well as for the benevolent funds distributed as Sharing Fund grants to help those in need.

 

Our impact

According to the American Fraternal Alliance, fraternal benefit society members gave nearly 46 million service hours and more than $690 million to community organizations in the United States. Truly a testament to the important purpose of fraternal societies to practice mutual aid and charity in their communities!

In small and large ways, Everence has helped thousands of families through fraternal benefits.
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$786,000

in Sharing Fund grants in 2025.
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$49,000

college scholarships provided annually.
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Coming soon!

New member benefit grant.

Become a member

Want to be part of something bigger than yourself? Explore more about what it means to be part of a community of people who care about the people and places around them, all working together to cultivate and enrich the lives we share.