Veterans
“So long as there are veterans, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will never forget them.” In each of the 172 VA Medical Centers nationwide there is an Elk committee at work. Since 1917, hundreds of thousands of Elks and their families have given generously of their time, energy and resources so that the lives of our ill and aging veterans will be enhanced.
Army of Hope
Just as the Elks/Wounded Warrior project assists injured veterans of the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, the Elks’ “Army of Hope” assists the families of Military Reservists and the National Guard who have been called to active duty during these times of crisis. The response from members and non-Elks has been overwhelming, and government officials at the local, state and national levels have responded favorably to the initiative.
Adopt-a-Veteran Program
If you’ve ever been hospitalized, you know the loneliness and depression you can experience. Think how tough it must be for hospitalized veterans, especially those who are far from home or have no family. With that thought in mind, George Schwarz of Clawson-Troy, Michigan, Lodge devised a simple yet effective solution in 1980: the Adopt-a-Veteran program.
Community
“The Elks National Foundation will unite the forces of the order into a mighty army for the service of mankind.” – John F. Malley The Elks National Foundation’s Community Investments Program spends $9.77 million to invest in Elks communities through Lodge grants that help Elks meet local needs.
Youth
The Elks National Foundation provides $3.74 million in college scholarships each year through its three scholarship programs.