Our Mission

The mission of the National Society of Daughters of the British Empire is to bring together women of British or Commonwealth of Nations birth or heritage in friendship, for charitable, cultural, and educational purposes.

Sisterhood, Heritage, and Volunteering

Since 1909, the National Society of Daughters of the British Empire (DBE) has connected women of British and Commonwealth heritage across the United States through Sisterhood, Heritage, Volunteering, and Educational Opportunities.

As a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the DBE provides a welcoming community for women who share British or Commonwealth ancestry and a commitment to making a positive impact.

Who We Are

The DBE is a charitable, non-profit, non-political, and non-sectarian American organization composed of women of British and Commonwealth of Nations birth or ancestry. Our members include professionals, business owners, retirees, community leaders, and volunteers united by a shared heritage and a passion for service.

For more than a century, the DBE has fostered meaningful friendships while supporting charitable initiatives, educational programs, and organizations that improve lives across the United States. We believe that preserving cultural traditions and giving back to our communities go hand in hand. The society was founded in the United States on March 15, 1909, as the Imperial Order, Daughters of the Empire in the U.S.A. It became the National Society, Daughters of the British Empire in the U.S.A. on April 14, 1920. The National Society is incorporated in the State of Delaware.

The Honorary President of the DBE is the British Ambassadress to the U.S. or the Ambassador's spouse.

For over 100 years, the DBE has been a common bond for women of British or Commonwealth of Nations heritage living in America. Members, joining together in fellowship, contribute significantly to the good of their local communities and support the retirement homes for men and women established by the DBE.