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
3/4/2025 South Orange, NJ Lodge No: 1154
used its Beacon Grant to support the Lodge’s long-running community garden. In its 13th year, the South Orange Elks Rent Party Garden provided over 2,000 lbs. of fresh produce to three local food pantries. Throughout the growing season, the Lodge hosts open houses to welcome volunteers from both the Elks and the wider community.
3/4/2025 Bakersfield, CA Lodge No: 266
uses its Gratitude Grant to provide clothing for children whose families are living below the poverty line. The Borel Fire, which affected families in the Kern Valley area last summer, caused more need in the community. The Lodge supports 40 students in need of winter clothing and school uniforms by accompanying them on shopping outings and purchasing these necessary items.
2/25/2025 Terre Haute, IN Lodge No: 86
used its Gratitude Grant to support new mothers with children in Union Hospital's neonatal intensive care unit. The Lodge provided thermal tote bags that help mothers transport breast milk and personal care items. The project aimed to alleviate some stress for these mothers; this is particularly needed in the Terre Haute community, where young women make up a high percentage of those experiencing poverty.
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.