The History of the Fraternal Benefit System

The Fraternal Benefit System consists of men and women from many nations, religions, and vocations who share a common bond. The System operates under a representative form of government.  It represents a charitable force of over 10-million members in nearly 85 not-for-profit societies in North America. GBU is proud to be part of a system which in 2000 alone contributed $367,551,114 to charitable causes.

Local districts are formed for the membership of a Fraternal Benefit System.  It is through district activities that men and women are encouraged to participate and resolve problems of mutual interest. These activities impress upon them the responsibilities and rewards of service to each other and to the community.

GBU and the Fraternal Benefit System

The Greater Beneficial Union of Pittsburgh (GBU) was founded on April 13, 1892, by German immigrants that settled in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The purpose of formation was to provide financial security, fraternalism and social activities to its members.

Today, GBU offers a wide variety of life insurance products, retirement savings programs and fraternal benefits to its members.  GBU promotes German cultural activities and events, and encourages community and patriotic involvement. Charitable, recreational and social activities are developed and offered for the entire family. GBU encourages its members to perform charitable acts for their fellow members and communities. GBU differs from commercial insurance companies in the following ways:

• The members are the owners of GBU
• GBU wants its members to prosper
• Excess profits belong to the members of GBU
• GBU encourages its membership to become active in their community
• GBU provides financial services with a fraternalism touch

Privacy Policy

GBU is a Fraternal Benefit Society domiciled in the state of Pennsylvania.
GBU is licensed to conduct business in the following states ...

CA, CO, FL, IL, IN, MI, MN, MO, NJ, NY, OH, PA, & WI

Not all products are available in all states.

GBU...Your circle for life...Just Ask!

Greater Beneficial Union
4254 Clairton Boulevard
Pittsburgh, PA  15227-3394
1-800-765-4GBU or (412) 884-5100
Fax:  (412) 884-9815
E-mail: info@gbu.org

This page was last updated on Monday, May 13, 2002