Founded in 1882, Knights of Columbus is a fraternal service organization that offers financial assistance for disadvantaged members and families. The organization has more than 1.7 million members in over 13,000 councils throughout the United States, Canada, the Philippines, Mexico, Poland, the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. It organizes fundraising events and sponsors family recognition programs and projects. The organization offers long-term and permanent insurances plans. It also organizes essay and poster making contests for youths. The organization organizes a variety of recreational sports activities, such as golf, softball, soccer, hockey and tennis. Knights of Columbus promotes the development of healthy lifestyles through a range of health care programs. It organizes blood donation camps and offers heart disease, smoking, and alcohol and drug abuse prevention programs. Knights of Columbus maintains a location in Paw Paw, Mich.