Des Moines, IA 98

GER Message

New events can help bolster membership

Be The Difference by taking the opportunity to offer events that give your Members a place to gather and share in fellowship. You can offer dinners or plan activities that your Members can support and maybe get others to join in.

These events can promote your Lodge to prospective Members as well as help reconnect with your delinquent Members. It is never too early to start planning your future events.

National Patriotism Week is September 8-14. You still have time to download a proclamation for National Patriotism Week and have your city's mayor sign it if you were unable to do so last month.

To all the Exalted Rulers, remember the Grand Exalted Ruler class begins this month and runs through October. Let us make it a good one to continue showing you can Be The Difference.

If you have not done so, visit elks.org. Look under the Grand Lodge Activities Committee, then take advantage of the many forms and certificates you can use to recognize program participants and volunteers.

Also, make sure to reach out to your committee chairpersons to ensure they are recording and submitting the information to the Lodge Secretary. Lodge Secretaries, begin sending your six-month dues and delinquent notices.

If your Lodge has not signed up for the Membership Billing System, check into it on elks.org (Membership Toolkit, Lodge billing) or contact your Grand Lodge Public Relations and Membership Marketing Area committee person for assistance. The cost savings to your Lodge will be significant.

Further, once the notices have been sent, have your Membership and Lapsation Committee contact these individuals. You would be surprised what a little personal contact can accomplish.
The Elks Legacy scholarships also open this month. Legacy Awards are available to children and grandchildren of Elks' Members. Check online for eligibility requirements.

At this time you can submit your Lodge website for judging to receive a Grand Lodge Award. Details are available from the Grand Lodge Area 5 Fraternal Committee Member.

This is a great opportunity to demonstrate what your Lodge is accomplishing as well as advertise your Lodge to your community.

In closing, Be The Difference by promoting "Elks Care--Elks Share."