The American Fraternal Alliance, formed in 1886, unites the not-for-profit fraternal benefit societies operating in 50 states, the District of Columbia and Canada. Alliance member societies represent nearly 8 million individuals, making it one of America’s largest member-volunteer networks. Each year members of fraternal benefit societies invest more than 75 million hours in community works and contribute more than $486 million to charitable programs supporting community service projects. Fraternal benefit societies provide financial services, including life insurance and annuities, as well as a variety of other benefits such as scholarships, educational programs, vocational opportunities, and group discount programs to members.