Mutual benefit societies have served as social support organizations for many immigrant groups, including the German community in Indianapolis. Several societies of this type (known as "Unterstutzungs Vereins" in German) were formed in the city during the latter half of the nineteenth century. Many of these societies drew their members from a specific segment of the German community. One example is the Indianapolis Gardeners Benefit Society. Formed on July 6, 1867, its membership was restricted to Indianapolis area greenhouse and outside gardeners. The society remains active, offering its members sickness and death benefit payments and a monthly fellowship meeting. It is also a member of the city's Federation of German Societies.