Our commitment to caring began on May 24, 1883, in Chicago.
At that time, impoverished immigrants streamed into the United States seeking a better life. When families lost their breadwinner, friends and neighbors typically collected money to assist survivors financially.
Those collecting money eventually formed associations generally based on religious or ethnic backgrounds. Often these societies became focal points for community life. 42 men saw a need in their community, so they decided to financially protect their families by each placing $1 on a wooden desk to be used to protect any family in need. This desk resides in the Memorabilia Room at the Home Office in Naperville, Illinois. Catholic Order of Foresters grew from this foundation and, for over a century, has aided individuals, families, and communities in need.
The name “Catholic Order of Foresters” refers to us being called to care for our Catholic community. As a forester cares for the forests and animals, we must care for our brothers and sisters in need.
Today
Each member holds an insurance certificate and eligibility for COF’s member benefits, just one of many things that sets us apart from other life insurance companies. By offering members fraternal benefits, including scholarships, we bring Catholic values to life.
We have nearly than 88,000 adult and youth members nationwide. As a fraternal benefit insurance society, we operate under a representative system and hold a National Convention every four years. (Learn more about this process here.) COF is licensed in 40 states and Washington, D.C. Our product portfolio includes Term Life, Whole Life, Universal Life, and Annuities.
Members can be confident in the ease and security of doing business with COF. Our website allows members to view policy information in real time and pay bills securely online. All COF agents are trained in e-App, our digital life insurance application. Members and those interested in learning more about COF can communicate with us via phone, email, web form or text message, knowing we will be there when you need us most.
Our Home Office is located in Naperville, Illinois.