The venerable history of the Knights of Columbus

The Knights of Columbus was officially chartered on March 29, 1882, as a fraternal benefit society. The Order upholds its founding principles of Charity, Unity and Fraternity. The Knights of Columbus renders financial aid and other assistance to sick, disabled and needy members and their families. The organization promotes social and intellectual fellowship through educational, charitable, religious, social welfare, war relief, and public relief works.

Great Growth, Great Success

The Knights of Columbus has grown from just a few members in one council to 15,342 councils and 1.9 million members in the United States and throughout the world. Its charitable activities encompass an almost infinite variety of local, national and international projects. These include partnerships with Special Olympics, the Global Wheelchair Mission, Habitat for Humanity, Food for Families, Coats for Kids, and more.  In 2016, the Knights of Columbus made charitable donations of $177.5 million, and its members volunteered more than 75 million hours of service.

Affordable Protection for Catholic Families

The Knights of Columbus offers a complete portfolio of top-quality insurance products to its members and their eligible family members. This includes permanent life insurance, term life insurance, retirement annuities, long-term care insurance, and disability income insurance. In addition, the Knights of Columbus provides many other services to members and their families, including survivor benefits, fraternal benefits, personalized financial analysis service, and end-of-life planning.