A Message from our Grand Exalted Ruler

September Message

ENF grants, programs strengthen our communities

The most important program in our Order is the Elks National Foundation. The support we provide makes the Foundation’s work possible. The goal we established for the 2024–2025 fraternal year is $5.00 per Member.

This year the Foundation has allocated $16.3 million for Lodge Community Service Grants. This grant program allows our Lodges to do more for your communities. I encourage all Lodges to seriously consider forming an ENF committee to educate themselves on the various grants to assist their communities.

Also, make use of the fundraising program through the ENF Fidelity Club. Any Member can sign up at elks.org to make the automatic recurring donations for as little as $5 per month or $15 per quarter. I encourage you to consider joining. I felt good when I joined and knew that it was an easy and efficient way to donate. This is once again a way for you to show your communities that “Elks Care — Elks Share.”

My theme “Elkdom’s Heart for America” focuses our attention on what we can do outside of the Lodge to help others. Another important program we must focus our attention on is Red Ribbon Week. This is our nation’s oldest and largest drug prevention program, held annually from October 23-31.

There are many ways to celebrate. Have your local elected officials issue a proclamation declaring Red Ribbon Week. Pass out red ribbons to your local school administrators, government officials, and members of law enforcement.When we wear a red ribbon, it means we are looking to take a stand against the horrible ramifications that drugs can have on our communities. Standing together will have a positive impact on the citizens where you live. The Elks will always lead the charge against the devastation that drugs have on families.

Again, another way to impact your community is by supporting the ENF. This foundation is the backbone of “Elks Care ­— Elks Share.” This year the Elks will show their generosity by donating a total of $41.6 million to make a difference in America. You make an impact, and when united with our fellow Elks across the nation, we are making a huge positive change.

By now, school is in full swing. It’s a good time to introduce the Americanism Essay Contest to your local schools. The deadline for submission is mid-December. There is complete essay information on the Elks website in the GL Fraternal Committee section under Forms and Contests.

It’s time to let our youth be able to express themselves about respecting patriotism and our country’s heritage. These essay-winning students should be recognized by your Local Lodge. Hold an event for them and give these students recognition certificates to administer to the schools. I am always amazed at the wisdom and knowledge that students can express. All Americans would benefit from reading these essays.

God bless you and God bless America.