Voluntary nonprofit associations, also known as fraternal societies or benefit associations, that are organized for the mutual aid and benefit of their members. Fraternal orders have a lodge system of organization, a representative form of self-government and do business in confidential meetings which often involve secret ritual. They generally provide death benefits and, in some cases, benefits related to accident, illness or old age, mainly through a form of insurance known as fraternal insurance; and many undertake community improvement, educational, religious or other charitable projects as part of their activities.

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