“I wanted to convey our deep thanks for such a wonderful gift to students and families in our community,” wrote a family in a thank-you note. “This will be our daughter's first official school year (Kindergarten), so not only were the school supplies needed, but it also kicked off a feeling of excitement in her to go to an event that celebrated getting ready for a new season of learning and exploring.”
"It was a real window into what an Elk really is,” said Schmitt of his experience volunteering. “An Elk, I learned, is truly benevolent. Each member I worked with honestly wished me--and everyone we met giving out backpacks--the best.”
The Elks National Foundation allocated $9.77 million this year to fund the Community Investments Program. Lodges meet local needs in Elks communities through Beacon, Gratitude, Promise and Impact Grants. These grants offer Lodges opportunities to serve the 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 www.elks.org/enf/community.