What is a fraternal?
A fraternal benefit society is operated solely for the benefit of its members and the profits are used to fund fraternal and community projects. It is organized around a lodge or branch system and has a representative form of government. Besides offering their members a variety of “fraternal benefits,” these unique organizations support numerous community endeavors, thereby providing individuals with the opportunity to make meaningful contributions to society.
Our Story
The UNA was founded in 1894, when the first wave of immigrants from Ukraine came to the United States to work in the coal mines of Pennsylvania. It began as a small fraternal union that was formed to primarily provide benefits for families when loved ones were claimed by mining accidents. Its other significant accomplishment was the education and enlightenment of immigrants, who required protection from exploitation, as well as assistance in adjusting to life in their new country.