According to Wikipedia: "The name Oddfellows refers to several friendly societies and fraternal organisations operating in the United Kingdom. It also refers to some Lodges with histories dating back to the 18th century. These various organisations were set up to protect and care for their members and communities at a time when there was no welfare state or National Health Service. The aim was (and still is) to provide help to members and communities when they need it. The friendly societies are non-profit mutual organisations owned by their members. All income is passed back to the members in the form of services and benefits."