Elks National Foundation Blog

Fallon, Nev., Lodge No. 2239 What does it take to bring together more than 8,000 community members? A park on a sunny day, free activites for people of all ages, and most importantly, the Elks. Using an Elks National Foundation Gratitude Grant , Fallon, Nev., Lodge No. 2239 brought its community together by instituting Fallon Community Day. At the event, more than 50 local organizations provided free resources. With haircuts for seniors, dental check-ups for kids, and CPR training for young adults, the celebration offered something for everyone! The Elks National Foundation helps Lodges serve their communities by offering $2,000 Gratitude Grants. Lodges are eligible to apply for Gratitude Grants after meeting the National President’s per-capita goal for Foundation giving. To find out more about Gratitude Grants and the Community Investments Program, visit www.elks.org/enf/community .   

Norristown, Pa., Lodge No. 714 Wearing a bike helmet can mean the difference between a minor injury and a tragic accident. This is the message Elks at Norristown, Pa., Lodge No. 714 shared with families participating in their second annual Bike Safety Day. Using an Elks National Foundation Promise Grant , the Lodge provided free bike inspections and helmets to all children in attendance. This event has already proved invaluable to the community. Last year, a local boy survived a serious bike accident thanks to the helmet he received at the Elks’ Bike Safety Day. The Elks displayed the boy’s helmet, now split in two, at this year’s event to remind guests that bike safety is vital. Thanks to the Elks, the children rode off after the event armed with the tools and knowledge needed for a fun and safe summer. The Elks National Foundation awards $2,000 Promise Grants to the first 500 Lodges that pledge to host an event that helps build the character and competence of local youth. T

Mid-Westchester, N.Y., Lodge No. 535 Thanks to the Elks, Boy Scouts in Mid-Westchester, N.Y., are even more prepared. Mid-Westchester Lodge No. 535 is the proud founding sponsor of a local Boy Scout troop for boys with physical and developmental disabilities. With the help of an Elks National Foundation Promise Grant , the 10 scouts in Pack 535 can participate in meaningful activities and earn badges through a modified scouting curriculum. This year, the scouts will visit community helpers and responders, participate in outdoor activities, explore local parks, and more. The Elks National Foundation awards $2,000 Promise Grants to the first 500 Lodges that pledge to host an event that helps build the character and competence of local youth. To find out more about Promise Grants and the Community Investments Program, visit www.elks.org/enf/community .

Huntington, W. Va., Lodge No. 313 Using its Elks National Foundation Promise Grant , Huntington, W. Va., Lodge No. 313 inspired a new generation of public servants through a field trip to the West Virginia State Capitol. Young women from the Golden Girls Group Home learned first-hand what it takes to run a state government. While on the field trip, the girls toured the Governor’s Mansion, attended a West Virginia legislative session, and spoke to members of state government. The group was even introduced during the legislative session in both the House and Senate Chambers. The Elks National Foundation awards $2,000 Promise Grants to the first 500 Lodges that pledge to host an event that helps build the character and competence of local youth. To find out more about Promise Grants and the Community Investments Program, visit www.elks.org/enf/community .