kfd, proud of its long-standing tradition of volunteer commitment, dates back to the year 1856 when Christian mothers founded the first groups. It grew steadily when local groups united, forming larger entities on regional level. Eventually in the year 1928, the Federal Association was founded and today has 21 regional member associations under its wing. Its headquarters are located in Düsseldorf.
Since then, it has been a strong advocator for women's rights, gender equality in church and politics as well as an important element of local social life. It reached a significant milestone in the summer of 2019 when its highest governing board, the National Assembly ("Bundesversammlung"), unanimously passed the declaration "equal and entitled" for the admission of women to all ministries and services within the Catholic church.
While kfd deals with political issues on a national level, its communities in parishes are places for members to meet, with varying purposes and programmes: In general, they offer cultural and social activities and - especially in rural areas - have great significance for communal life.
