Elks National Foundation Blog

 Union, N.J., Lodge No. 1583 Life’s a picnic when shared with the Elks. With the help of an Elks National Foundation Gratitude Grant , Union, N.J., Lodge No. 1583 collaborated with the Lodge’s Veterans’ Committee to host a picnic for veterans living at two local VA hospitals. The picnic allowed the veterans to spend the day in the sun and the fresh air. As some Elks cooked fresh hamburgers and steak sandwiches, others provided good company. The Elks ensured that the veterans left with everything they needed—a full stomach, new friends, clothing, and coupons for the hospital commissary. “The veterans were able to sit, talk and eat on this beautiful day,” says Project Manager Danielle Reed. “It was great the Lodge, the Veterans’ Committee and the VA hospital could work together to make this a special day. We had a wonderful time serving those who served our country.” Did your Lodge meet the National President’s per-member-giving goal in 2012-13? There is still time to apply ...

 Cody, Wyo., Lodge No. 1611 Spring has sprung, and for Cody, Wyo., Lodge No. 1611 that can only mean one thing—baseball season! The Cody Elks know that playing sports is beneficial—it offers youth an opportunity to exercise and learn good sportsmanship. To support the local little league team, the Elks used an Elks National Foundation Promise Grant to hold a barbeque for the athletes and their families. Forget the peanuts and crackerjack. Elks prepared a picnic lunch for more than 600 guests, providing athletes with good food and good company after working hard on the baseball field. To endorse good health even after baseball season ends, the Cody Elks promoted the Lodge’s soccer shoot at the barbeque. “The Promise Grant helped us connect to local youth and encourage them to participate in future Lodge events,” says Project Manager Jerry Fritz. “The soccer shoot participation doubled after the little league picnic.” The Elks National Foundation awards $2,000 Promi...