Each week, the ENF recognizes CIPerstars who have gone above and beyond in their service to the Elks National Foundation. These CIPerstars are recognized for their outstanding contributions to the ENF and the Elks community.
Senior Programs Associate
Programs Associate
Programs Coordinator
10/29/2024 Springfield, OR Lodge No: 2145
uses its Gratitude Grant to distribute hygiene kits. These kits contain essential items such as toothbrushes, feminine products, hand sanitizer, and first aid supplies tailored to the specific needs of recipients, including individuals experiencing homelessness, veterans and students facing challenges. The project builds on the success of the Lodge's Snack Pack Program, leveraging partnerships with local police and schools for effective distribution.
10/29/2024 Erie, PA Lodge No: 67
uses its Impact Grant for its project, Comfort Care 4 Vets, a project dedicated to providing hygiene items, food, and other essentials to veterans through the Erie V.A. Medical Center. This last quarter, the Lodge discovered a veteran who was skipping meals to ensure his child had enough to eat. Members were able to situate the veteran and his family with food and essentials to provide relief.
10/29/2024 Oshkosh, WI Lodge No: 292
uses its Beacon Grant in partnership with the Oshkosh Boys & Girls Club to provide essential footwear—boots, shoes and socks—for children from under-resourced families. Lodge members assist in fitting children with the appropriate footwear, working closely with the Club to identify those in need. Active participation from Lodge members is crucial, as they will engage directly with the children during fittings, fostering connections and promoting the Lodge to the next generation.
The Elks National Foundation allocated nearly $16 million this year to fund the Community Investments Program. Lodges meet local needs through grants that offer Elks opportunities to serve their community in ways that will raise the Lodge's profile, energize the membership, encourage former members to return to the fold, and gain the notice of people who want to be part of an organization that's doing great things. To learn more about the Community Investments Program, please visit elks.org/CIP. If you would like to speak to someone in the CIP office, we can be reached at 773-755-4730.