WSA Fraternal Life

WSA Fraternal Life is a fraternal benefit society located in Westminster, Colorado. Known until 1989 as the Western Slavonic Association (WSA) or Zapadna Slovanska Zveza, it was originally an ethnic fraternal benefit and social organization for Slovene immigrants and their descendants in the United States[2].

History

Founded under its earlier name, the organization's activities included visiting the sick and bereaved, offering college scholarships, promoting Slavic culture, and organizing trips to Yugoslavia before its breakup[2]. In 1958, membership was opened to people of all nationalities and ancestries. Notable mergers include the integration with the Sociedad Protección Mutua de Trabajadores Unidos (SPMTU) in January 1996, following a merger agreement in June 1995[2].

Programs and Activities

WSA Fraternal Life provides life insurance to its members for their mutual benefit and that of their beneficiaries[5]. The organization also supports various community activities through its Lodge Activity Funding Program, which allocates funds annually to active lodges to support local charities and community initiatives[4].

Charitable Contributions

Through its funding program, WSA Fraternal Life supports a wide range of charitable initiatives, including organizations focused on health, education, youth development, and community service. Supported organizations range from local youth and senior centers to major national causes such as the American Heart Association and Boy Scouts of America[4].

Membership and Operational Scope

As of the mid-1990s, WSA was licensed to sell insurance in several states, including Colorado, Utah, Minnesota, and Pennsylvania, with additional licenses later acquired in Illinois, New Mexico, Ohio, and South Dakota[2]. The organization is part of a broader network of fraternal associations through its affiliation with the American Fraternal Alliance[1].

Financial Status

WSA Fraternal Life emphasizes financial stability and strength within the fraternal life insurance industry[1].

Cultural and Community Impact

In addition to financial services, WSA continues to publish a newspaper titled The Fraternal Voice, which helps disseminate cultural and community information among its members and supports cultural heritage events[2].