“Once everyone started sweating and finding each other’s faces smeared with dirt, the ice broke,” says Project Manager Jacqueline Gaudet. “Nothing brings cohesion like a group effort. This project did a world of good for morale.”
“It’s such an honor to work with the Elks and 1,000 New Gardens,” says Valor House Program Director Tessa Johnson. “They’ve been so great and helpful. We’re just so thrilled to have their support.”
The Lodge, on the other hand, is thankful for the Elks National Foundation. “Thank you, ENF!” exclaims Gaudet. “It is the Community Investments Program that motivated us to start this project and gave us confidence to address this local need. Together we’ve made this community of veterans very happy.”
The Elks National Foundation helps Lodges serve their communities by offering $2,000 Gratitude Grants. Lodges are eligible to apply for Gratitude Grants after meeting the National President’s per-member goal for giving to the Foundation. To find out more about Gratitude Grants and the Community Investments Program, visit www.elks.org/enf/community.