Why Be A Member of your local Elks Lodge?
An Elk is an American Citizen who takes pride in him/herself and his community. An Elk guides their life by the cardinal principles of our Order - Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love, and Fidelity. The Order of Elks has a great deal to offer it's members, their families and the community they live in. A member is asked to take an obligation to uphold our principles and support fellow members. This obligation does not conflict with any personal, political or religious beliefs that a candidate may have. Below is a brief overview of membership requirements, and contact information. I have also outlined some of the basic programs of the Elks. For further information on our programs, please go to Elks.org.
To be eligible for membership in the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, you must be a citizen of the United States over the age of 21 who believes in God.
We seek to bring into our family only those who delight in wholesome associations with life long friends. Only persons who possess a deep sense of patriotism, fair play, chivalry and dedication to noble causes. Persons who find the fulfillment of their existence in service to humanity, aiding those in distress; proving themselves to be true friends to all in need.
We question no one's religion, nor do we exclude anyone because of creed, race, ethnic origin, educational attainment, vocation, material status or physical stature. We measure character by what one is and does, not by titles or position. We do not seek to impose different beliefs in place of personal commitments to God, Family and Country, nor do we ask anyone to act in any manner contrary to the dictates of conscience. We do not permit religious or political differences to intrude into or have any effect upon fraternal deliberations at the local, district, state or national levels.
We expend over two million dollars annually to bring encouragement, cheer and comfort to hospitalized veterans throughout the United States in fulfillment of our solemn pledge: "So long as there are veterans in our hospitals, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will never forget them."
Through the Elks National Foundation, a perpetual fund with assets exceeding three hundred and twenty million dollars, in 2009 - 2010, the Board of Trustees approved appropriations and distributions totaling a record $17.4 million dollars! Programs that were supported include, but not limited to, college scholarships, emergency educational grants, the Elks Drug Awareness Program, Elks Hoop Shoot, Elks Soccer Shoot and of course our Veterans! In our many benevolences, Elks and Lodges throughout the United States, spend over forty-five million dollars annually in our various works of community betterment and charitable programs. This does not take into consideration donated hours equivalent to over thirty-five million dollars.
The Elks Lodge in your community affords you the opportunity to join your neighbors and friends, and take a prominent role in the improvement of community life.
|
If your interested in learning more about our organization or becoming an Elk please fill out the form to the right or you can call the Exalted Ruler at 719-384-9161.
|
|
|
