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April Director's Update

By Elks National Foundation Director Jim O'Kelley
 
A long time ago, a speaker at a workshop I attended hit us with a quote that left a lasting impression:

“Change is inevitable, but progress is optional.”

April 1 marked the 18th turning of a fiscal year for me as director of the Elks National Foundation, and I still get excited when we flip the calendar.  Each fiscal year ushered in at least one interesting and significant change. Most of them have moved us forward. We’re making progress, and that’s what keeps me and the staff going.

Here's one small change that will inspire big ideas!
Mary, Jocelyn and Sarah talk CIP around their new table.
Every single one of our major programs has at least one big change coming, from the latest expansion to the Community Investments Program to the new Elks Scholar Service Trips. It’s going to be a great year for our programs and the people who count on our services.

But even on the fundraising side—on both the front and back ends—we’re making changes that you may not even notice but that will move our organization forward. New solicitation and stewardship efforts. Better document management. More functional work space.

From the staff who raise money to the ones who process the gifts, the programs people who spend it all to the communications folks who tell you all about it—we’re all working together to move the Foundation and the Elks organization forward.

That’s why I get so excited when April 1 rolls around, and that’s why I love working here.

This new fiscal year is going to be fantastic. Enjoy the ride. I’m glad you’re with us.

Sincerely,

Jim O’Kelley
ENF Director
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