Empowering Legacies: Celebrating Women’s History Month With 1891 Financial Life’s Commitment to Family and Community
March 21, 2025
Women’s History Month was established in March 1987 to recognize and honor the contributions that women have made to society. Each year, the National Women's History Alliance (NWHA) chooses a theme for Women's History Month. The theme for March 2025 is "Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations.” According to NWHA, the theme celebrates “the powerful influence of women who have dedicated their lives to education, mentorship, and leadership.”
Women’s History Month gives our team at 1891 Financial Life the opportunity to reflect on all the ways women have stepped forward and shaped the world as we know it. Now an award-winning life insurance company providing a range of insurance and financial planning solutions, 1891 Financial Life was founded by a visionary woman named Elizabeth Rodgers. She and 12 other women recognized a need and followed through with their vision to improve women’s lives and strengthen the communities in which they live.
The Foundations of 1891 Financial Life
Back in 1891, a mother of six children passed away, and she was so poor that funds were collected from community members to pay for her funeral. When a group of mothers, sisters, and daughters learned this, they felt compelled to form a Society that would uplift, support, and protect women and their families.
Led by Rodgers, the Women’s Catholic Order of Foresters gained momentum with each passing year. Their Society, incorporated in 1894, established a goal to give back and to give women a sense of autonomy — considering that at this time, their possessions, income, and children were considered the legal property of their husbands.
By 1958, men and boys over age 16 were welcomed into the society. Eight years later, the society’s name was changed to the National Catholic Society of Foresters (NCSF) to better reflect our evolving mission, values, and commitment to serving a broader community.
In 2021, the National Catholic Society of Foresters became 1891 Financial Life. Even though times have changed and we operate under a different name, we remain committed to supporting families in need, giving back to the communities we serve, and ensuring that all women have the opportunity to thrive financially.
Life Insurance as a Tool for Empowerment
Throughout history, women have played a crucial role in securing financial stability for their families, often overcoming systemic challenges to do so. Life insurance is one of the most powerful financial tools available to women, providing long-term security and peace of mind. It ensures that loved ones are protected, debts are managed, and future goals — such as a child’s education or homeownership — remain achievable even in uncertain times.
For many women, life insurance represents more than just financial coverage — it is an act of empowerment. Whether as primary earners or caretakers, women can use life insurance to build generational wealth, maintain financial independence, and safeguard their families from unexpected hardships. At 1891 Financial Life, we understand that women don’t just invest in policies — they invest in their futures, their children, and their communities.
Educational Initiatives and Community Impact
Since our inception in 1891, our company has supported educational programs and initiatives designed to uplift women. In 1927, for example, the Society raised funds to host youth programming.
The numerous programs funded by the Women’s Catholic Order of Foresters challenged ideas, sparked creativity, and fostered positive change. The lesson here is that entire communities benefit when women come together with a shared vision.
Celebrating Women's Achievements in 1891 Financial Life
Since its founding, 1891 Financial Life has been shaped by the dedication and leadership of women committed to financial security and community empowerment. Rodgers and her fellow visionaries established the foundation of our Society, ensuring that women had access to financial protection at a time when their economic independence was often restricted. Today, their legacy continues through the women who lead, innovate, and educate within our organization.
In 2023, our commitment to empowering women was recognized on a national scale when 1891 Financial Life was featured on “The Balancing Act,” a television program dedicated to informing and inspiring viewers. Watch our feature to learn more about how we continue to uplift families and communities through life insurance.
Beyond leadership and visibility, we actively invest in women's financial education. In December 2024, we hosted Glitz, Glam & Goals: Take Charge of Your Finances, a financial literacy event designed to help women take control of their financial futures. This event was so successful that we are hosting Spring Into Wealth: Planting the Seeds for a Stronger Financial Future in April 2025 to continue equipping women with the knowledge and tools they need to build financial confidence.
1891 Financial Life Today: Continuing the Legacy
While our name has evolved, our mission remains steadfast: to provide families with financial security and give back to the communities we serve. Today, 1891 Financial Life continues to champion women’s empowerment through tailored life insurance solutions, educational initiatives, and philanthropic efforts.
We recognize that the financial landscape is changing, and we are committed to ensuring that women have access to the resources and coverage they need. Whether it’s offering policies designed for working mothers, providing financial education, or supporting community-driven programs, our focus remains on fostering security and independence for women and their families.
As we celebrate the past, we look toward the future with the same commitment to service that has defined us for over a century. Women continue to shape our organization, our industry, and our world — and at 1891 Financial Life, we are honored to support and empower them every step of the way.
Final Thoughts
The trailblazers who founded our company did so through a simple act of kindness. How wonderful it is to know that their kindness has resonated for well over a century and counting. Throughout Women’s History Month, we will be celebrating the founding women of 1891 Financial Life and the continued relevance of our mission.
Life insurance and financial planning help women and their families build and sustain legacies that empower future generations. To learn more about the specific life insurance products we offer and how they can be tailored to meet your financial needs and goals, contact us today for personalized assistance.
About 1891 Financial Life
Our culture is about looking out — for you, for others, for family, for the community. That is how we go “Beyond Life Insurance.”
At 1891 Financial Life, we don’t just sell policies, we offer possibilities. We pride ourselves on giving back to the communities that we serve by providing quality and comprehensive insurance solutions. We are a not-for-profit life insurance Society, which means the sales from these financial service products help fund member benefits along with social, educational, and volunteer programs designed to respond to community needs. In 2023, 1891 Financial Life was listed by Forbes as one of "The World's Best Life Insurance Companies."
Our portfolio is extensive, ranging from various life insurance policies to our annuities to support your financial needs no matter what stage of life you’re in.