Elks National Foundation Blog

Stevens Point, Wis., Lodge No. 641 Youth in Stevens Point, Wis., are hooked on fishing! Using an Elks National Foundation Beacon Grant , Stevens Point, Wis., Lodge No. 641 partnered with the local police department to hold Cops ‘n’ Bobbers for local youth in need. Thanks to the Elks, guests are now expert fishermen. Elks taught the children and their families the best kinds of bait to use and how to measure and record the fish they caught. Police officers helped with the fishing lessons and taught youth how to play safely around the water. Guests left the shore with fishing knowledge and new friends in the Elks and local police officers. “Cops ‘n’ Bobbers was an excellent cosponsored program,” says Project Manager Michael Kinney. “Our Lodge will definitely be recognized in the community for working with local law enforcement to support local youth.” Through Beacon Grants, the Elks National Foundation gives Lodges the opportunity to develop an ongoing, charitable, Elks-dr...

Kent Island, Md., Lodge No. 2576 Kids near Kent Island, Md., Lodge No. 2576 are having a reel-y good time! The Lodge used its Elks National Foundation Promise Grant to hold a fishing derby for local kids. Elks partnered with several businesses and community groups to hold the event, which featured food, raffles, games, and presentations on safety and drug awareness. There was even a special presentation by the Department of Natural Resources’ working dogs!  The ENF awards $2,000 Promise Grants to the first 500 Lodges that pledge to host an event that helps build the character and competence of youth in their community. To find out more about Promise Grants and the Community Investments Program, visit www.elks.org/enf/community .