What is an “Elk”

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks is one of the oldest and largest private organizations in the United States, formally meeting since February 16, 1868. Fifteen actors and entertainers attended that first meeting in New York City. The organization has since grown to nearly 1.3 million men and women in 2,200 local “Lodges” throughout the country, embracing all occupations and professions.

The organization’s philanthropic bent grew out of the founders’ desire to assist members in need and young actors who were out of work. In 1871, the Elks staged a benefit for the Chicago Fire, and the organization has responded to every major disaster since then, from the Seattle fire and Johnstown flood in 1889, to the Oklahoma City bombing of 1995, the Red River flooding of 1997, the Columbine shootings and tornado disasters of 1999. This in addition to the community service that has become an Elks tradition.

The Order is best noted for its work with youth. The Elks annually award scholarships at the local, state and national levels and sponsor activities such as the Elks “Hoop Shoot,” Drug Awareness programs, Scouting, Little League, summer camps and in-home treatment for children with disabilities.

Of the many additional prides in Elkdom, two stand tall. The first is the patriotism displayed by the Order. In 1907, the Elks became the first fraternal organization to observe flag day on June 14. More than 40 years later, President Harry S. Truman, a member of the Order, declared the date a national observance.

The second is the promise made in World War I that disabled American veterans would never be forgotten. The Order of Elks supplied and equipped the first two field hospitals in France. For returning wounded, the Elks constructed the first hospital in Boston and then donated it to the federal government. This was the start of today’s veterans hospital system.

The Order’s history of patriotism and service has set the tone for the modern Lodge. Last year, the Elks and their families contributed more than 5.6 million volunteer-hours and $143 million in philanthropic service. As they have for more than 140 years, the Elks continue to make a difference in their communities, their states and their country.

What Do Elks Do for the Community?

The Elks strive to lead by example through our civic activities. We feel that American citizenship carries with it certain responsibilities and these include community service. We try to make our communities better places to live through our scholarship program, major projects, sponsorship of Boy Scouts and Little League teams, etc.

The Elks believe strongly that service to others, especially those less fortunate, is the rent we pay for living. Our charitable and philanthropic activities include drug educational and youth athletic programs, college scholarships, veterans service and aid for people with disabilities. Each year, the Order contributes more than $140 million in time and money in support of these programs.

The Elks believe the future of this country is in the hands of its youth. Therefore, we are dedicated to providing safe, healthy environments in which today’s youth can learn, grow and mature into tomorrow’s leaders. Nationwide, the Elks award $6.3 million in college scholarships every year; in the Elks “Hoop Shoot” free throw contest, we operate the largest coeducational sports program in the country; the Elks contribute more than $45 million a year in support of youth groups and organizations, athletic and drug educational programs, and other youth activities.

Elks Lodges are social centers providing fun, wide-ranging activities that appeal to all members of the family. Picnics, dances, social events and friendship - the heart of our organization.