The "GREAT HEART OF ELKDOM," is a permanent trust fund established in 1928 to further the benevolent, charitable and educational programs of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America.
What better way to show the members of our communities that "ELKS CARE - ELKS SHARE" than by administering and promoting the many programs funded through the Elks National Foundation.
Over 4 million dollars is granted annually by the Foundation, which is used to fund the following programs:
- "Most Valuable Student" Scholarship Winners.
- Elks Legacy Scholarships for children of Elks.
- Eagle Scout and Girl Scout Scholarships
- Vocational Training Grants
- The annual Hoop Shoot Free-Throw Program
- The Elks Soccer Shoot Program
- Elks National Veterans Service Commission
- Drug Awareness Education Programs
- Emergency Education Grants for children of disabled and deceased Elks
- Grants to State Associations to help fund their Major Project Programs
- Special Project Grants to State Associations.
In order to continue funding these great programs, we must all participate in and support the Elks National Foundation. Every Lodge Officer, and every Lodge Member, should be encouraged to invest in this program. The goal we have established to ensure the continued growth of the Foundation is $3.65 per Member, or a penny-a-day. Not much money when you consider the outstanding things we have been able to accomplish in the past.
In order to reach this goal of $3.65 per Member, we must ask every new Member initiated into our Order to join the ENF. The best time to accomplish this is during the indoctrination program while you are describing the many great works of Elkdom. Donor Recognition Boards should be prominently displayed at the Lodge to recognize those members supporting this program. Present certificates and pins at Lodge meetings whenever possible and thank them publicly.
The importance of the Elks National Foundation and its philanthropic work cannot be over-emphasized. We need to be proud of what the ENF stands for, and to instill that sense of pride in others. Please participate - its important that we do.
"John F. Malley Society" - The Elks National Foundation recognizes donors who plan gifts to the Foundation through the John F. Malley Society.
Named for the man who first championed the idea of an Elks National Foundation, the society honors people who name the Foundation as a beneficiary of their estate, as well as those who make lifetime gifts of stock, property or insurance. Lifetime gifts must be at least $2,500 to qualify for society membership.
Members names will be listed in the Foundation's Annual Report for the year they join the society. In addition each member receives a letter of recognition and a pin.
For more information about the Elks National Foundation, please call (773) 755-4728