Elks Charitable Giving
The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, commonly known as the Elks, is a fraternal organization headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. The Elks have a long history of charitable giving, dating back to their founding in 1868. The organization's charitable arm, the Elks National Foundation (ENF), provides millions of dollars in grants and scholarships each year to support a variety of causes, including youth development, education, veterans' services, and community improvement.
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Elks National Foundation
The ENF was established in 1928. Since then, the foundation has provided over $1.4 billion in grants and scholarships to communities across the United States. The ENF receives funding from a variety of sources, including member donations, fundraising events, and bequests.
Programs and Initiatives
The ENF supports a wide range of programs and initiatives, including:
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Community Investments Program: This program provides grants to Elks Lodges for community-based projects. In 2023, the ENF allocated nearly $16 million to fund the Community Investments Program.
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Scholarships: The ENF awards scholarships to high school graduates and college students. In 2023, the ENF awarded over $3.6 million in scholarships.
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Veterans Services: The ENF provides support to veterans and their families. This includes programs that help veterans find jobs, access healthcare, and transition to civilian life.
Impact
The charitable giving of The Elks has a significant impact on communities across the United States. The ENF's programs and initiatives help to improve the lives of millions of people each year.
Examples of Charitable Giving
Here are a few examples of how The Elks are making a difference in communities:
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In 2023, the ENF awarded a $10,000 grant to an Elks Lodge in Texas to support a local food bank.
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In 2023, the ENF awarded a $5,000 scholarship to a high school graduate in California to attend college.
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In 2023, the ENF provided $1 million in grants to support veterans' programs across the United States.
Conclusion
The Elks are a leading charitable organization that is making a positive impact on communities across the United States. The ENF's programs and initiatives are helping to improve the lives of millions of people each year.
Additional Resources
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Elks National Foundation: https://www.elks.org/enf/
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Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks: https://www.elks.org/