Elks at Onancock, Va., Lodge No. 1766 used a Beacon Grant to build raised beds and a storage shed for a community garden at a local food bank. This summer, they’ll harvest the fruits of their labor as the Elks—with the help of Youthworks, a local youth organization—pick fresh produce to be distributed at the food bank.
“Elks members were able to help our community by providing fresh produce for those in need,” says Project Manager Jacqueline Denike. “Throughout the year, the garden shows how the Elks are involved in community efforts.”
Click here to see how Elks use ENF grants to serve their communities.
Haley Ryder, a 2010 Most Valuable Student scholar, isn’t letting her summer break go to waste! This summer, Haley, sponsored by Lindsay, Okla., Lodge No. 2351, is traveling to Haiti. After interning with Mission of Hope for two months, Haley is off to camp. She’ll be spending the end of her summer as a counselor at a youth sports camp.
“I am blessed to have the opportunity to serve others this summer,” says Haley. “I am excited to share with others and build new relationships.”
Read how Elks scholars serve their communities in and out of school.
Hoop Shoot National Finalists stay active when not in school! Ayden Richmond, a 2013 National Finalist sponsored by Ashtabula, Ohio, Lodge No. 208, will spend the summer playing travel soccer and participating in 4H by showing his goat, Ginger.
Ayden plans to stay connected to the Hoop Shoot by practicing his free throws. He’ll also receive an award from the Ohio General Assembly for reaching the National Finals.
See how Hoop Shoot athletes connect with their communities on and off the court.
Whether at home or overseas, Elks from Ponca City, Okla., Lodge No. 2002 want soldiers to have what they need over the summer. The Lodge teamed with the Elks National Foundation and Operation Pioneer Spirit to pack care boxes full of snacks, games and books for members of the military.
“Many of the soldiers we serve grew up in our community,” says Project Manager Thomas Overton. “We are excited to keep building relationships with them when they return home as veterans.”
Click here to see how Elks serve local veterans in need.
Tracy, Calif., Lodge No. 2031 teamed up with two local youth soccer leagues to hold a Drug Awareness Soccer Shoot. Elks spent the day in the sun, teaching local youth about the importance of healthy choices like exercise and saying “no” to drugs.
“Every child is a winner at our Soccer Shoot,” says Project Manager John Nunes. “Seeing the kids’ smiling faces and knowing we contributed to their futures is what community youth projects are all about.”
Read how Elks serve youth in drug-free communities.
Take some time to cool off! Check these news sites frequently to see how the ENF helps Elks build stronger communities this summer and throughout the year.