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
4/29/2026 Watervliet-Colonie, NY Lodge No: 1500
uses its Beacon Grant to distribute school supplies and winter clothing to children in need at a back to school event and again in December. This annual project has been altered from what was a donation of funds. The Lodge says that this change has given its members greater input into the project and has increased participation.
4/29/2026 Clovis, CA Lodge No: 2599
uses its Gratitude Grant to continue its successful backpack project by working with two new Title One schools in its district. Every student at each school receives a backpack filled with school supplies. The Lodge purchases 1,250 backpacks! Elks attend the first day of school to welcome students to the new year and distribute backpacks.
4/21/2026 Loudoun, VA Lodge No: 2406
uses its Spotlight Grant for a Welcome Home project in collaboration with several sister Lodges, and in conjunction with its Freedom and Focus Grants. The project provides veterans who are transitioning out of homelessness with the basic items needed to settle into their new homes. The Lodges provide furniture, bedding, cookware and basic foodstuffs.
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.