Elks National Foundation Blog

Kayleigh Arcos 2014 Most Valuable Student Scholar Georgetown University—International Business and Relations Major Sponsored by San Antonio, Texas, Lodge No. 216 Kayleigh Arcos is a young woman with vision. As a leader in the Hispanic community, Kayleigh was selected as a 2012 High School Latino Leader for the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute, where she promoted Latino involvement in politics and leadership with other Latino youth. Inspired by her experience, she interned at Communities In Schools of San Antonio, where she helped low-income children improve socially and academically in school through fun and educational projects. These experiences, coupled with a desire to combat stereotypes and promote education, have motivated Kayleigh to help others through charitable acts and community projects. “Being an Elks scholar means being a role model for change and opportunity,” says Kayleigh. “We are symbols of hope and passion who have excelled not only in the clas...

Sahil Suri 2014 Most Valuable Student Recipient Purdue University—Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering and Business Major Sponsored by Sparta, N.J., Lodge No. 2356 Sahil Suri knows the power of education. With this in mind, he co-founded an organization to help refugee students achieve their full potential despite their circumstances. Dreamers Without Borders has already provided free educational resources to thousands of refugee students worldwide. Sahil, who is in charge of technology and social integration, is hoping to expand the organization’s reach by working with the Boy Scouts to create a badge to spread awareness of refugee issues. With the help of his Elks National Foundation scholarship, Sahil will continue to initiate social change. “Global efficacy says that each individual has the ability to make real change in the world,” says Sahil. “Elks scholars genuinely encompass that belief and incorporate it into their everyday lives, striving every day to make a ...

Vincennes, Ind., Lodge No. 291 Elks from Vincennes, Ind., Lodge No. 291 never imagined they’d be able to serve every veteran living in nearby nursing homes. Thanks to an Elks National Foundation Gratitude Grant , the Vincennes Elks were able to do just that! Using the Gratitude Grant, Elks purchased and packaged more than 95 bags—one for each local veteran—full of household supplies, flashlights, calendars and writing utensils. Lodge members delivered the bags to the assisted living homes, providing the veterans with needed supplies, friendship and support. “Among the veterans were those with little to no local contacts,” says Community Investments Program Project Manager Vernon Houchins. “Our Lodge took pride in serving these veterans in need.” 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-member goal for giving to the Foundati...

Logan Brown 2014 Legacy Awards Recipient Vanderbilt University — Computer Science and Public Policy Studies Major Sponsored by Pratt, Kan., Lodge No. 1451 The child of a police officer, Logan Brown developed a passion for law and justice at an early age. She pursued her interest in law enforcement by interning at the local district attorney’s office. While learning about the judicial system and witnessing its effects on real people, Logan realized how a career in law will allow her to help individuals and society. In the fall, she looks forward to beginning her path to law school and dedicating her life to social justice with the help of her Elks National Foundation Legacy Award. “Being chosen to become an Elks scholar is one of the most humbling and rewarding honors I have ever received,” says Logan. “Being an Elks scholar is not a onetime accolade, it’s a commitment and responsibility that I will have for the rest of my life.” In 2014-15, the Elks National Fou...