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 Preussen Unterstutzungs Verein. This group, organized in 1884, served German immigrants from Prussia by providing assistance in time of illness. The Verein is still active, offering its members sickness and death benefits and social activities. It is also a member of the city's Federation of German Societies.