The Order of Elks was
founded on February 16, 1868, in New York City by a
group of fifteen budding artists and thespians for their
mutual self-help. It's declared purposes are to practice
it's four cardinal virtues, Charity, Justice, Brotherly
love, and Fidelity; to promote the welfare and enhance
the happiness of it's members, to quicken the spirit of
American patriotism, and to cultivate good fellowship.
The Order has grown to a membership exceeding 1.2
million members from all walks of life in over 2000 Elks
lodges in cities across the country, in all 50 states.
The full corporate name of the Order is " The Benevolent
and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of
America". Membership in the Order is limited to citizens
of the United States of America who are at least
twenty-one years of age, and believe in the objects and
purposes of the Order. While no-one is barred from
membership due to religious or political affiliations,
race or creed, a belief in God is a requirement for
membership.
A charitable organization, the Benevolent and Protective
Order of Elks is close to the United States Government
in the granting of scholarships to our nation's youth.
It has been first on the scene of many national
disasters to aid with time and money collected by it's
members. It's members are in the forefront of community
efforts to provide food for the needy and shelter for
the displaced.
A
patriotic organization,
Elks have been quick to respond to the needs of the
nation in time of war, were first to respond to the
massive effort to refurbish and restore our Statue of
Liberty, to provide for the needs of American veterans
and to provide support as polling places for local
elections.
Finally, the Elks are American citizens, the people next
door who love to donate their time and energy to
alleviate many of the problem areas of our community.
Through the dedication and resourcefulness of the Elks,
funds are raised to help handicapped children, to
provide comfort for the sick and elderly, to help
provide places and activities for our children to grow
up safely. Funds raised by these people, the Elks, help
support Boy Scout Troops, Little League teams, Youth
Soccer teams..... all to provide alternative activities
to prevent
Drug and Alcohol abuse.
The Elks have a busy agenda. The task list is long.....
and expensive. Although we can't all give a million, we
can be part of a million to give of our time, our
effort, and our change.