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My Journey to the ENF!


 by Blaire Shaffer
Communications Assistant


After graduating from Luther College with a major in Communication Studies, I found myself in Chicago, and like many other graduates, I embarked on a massive job hunt. A PR and social media internship with a Humane Society created my desire to pursue a career in the  non-profit sector. So, I was thrilled by the prospect of working as the Elks National Foundation’s Communications Assistant.  I feel very lucky and honored to be given the opportunity to share news about the ENF as well as service work done by Elks through writing and social media!

I have only been working at the ENF for a little over two months now, yet each day has been filled with fascinating lessons and challenges. It has been wonderful to work in a place with extremely kind and funny co-workers, who have all been incredibly welcoming from my very first day. I am looking forward to April, because I am excited to experience the Hoop Shoot National Finals and MVS Leadership Weekend for the first time! Although it is only February, the Communications Department has started preparing for the Hoop Shoot National Finals, which has only encouraged my anticipation.

My duties as a Communications Assistant deal with assisting in social media management. This means creating posts and responding to comments or mentions.  I also oversee the blog. I aid in the creation of content for the ENF, which includes writing Speaking points, News to Use, and any stories or letters that I am assigned, or helping design save-the-dates or announcements. I help keep the ENF website up to date with fresh content for visitors to enjoy. I also assist in organizing Frontline, which is an email newsletter for registered ENF Fundraising Chairs. 


When I’m not at the ENF, I am usually found hanging out with my dog Bruno (a Border Collie and German Shepherd mix) or my friends, running, reading, exploring Chicago, watching movies or TV, and cooking/baking.
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