The Order of Elks and Youth Work

he Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks have always known that our youths are the future of this country. Therefore, the Elks spend much time and effort working with young people.

More than 10 million youths participate in Elks-sponsored programs like the Elks National “Hoop Shoot®” Free Throw Contest, Scouting, Boys and Girls Clubs, and on more than 3,000 youth athletic teams.

Lodge facilities in hundreds of cities and towns serve as youth centers. Club rooms are used for dances, entertainment, meetings, hobby shows and other organized activities.

Many of the Elks State Associations own and operate their own camps for children with disabilities or who are financially disadvantaged.

The Elks National Foundation, the major philanthropic endeavor of the Order, annually awards $2 million in college scholarships to 500 deserving young men and women. These grants are given regardless of race, creed or national origin based on need, scholarship and leadership.

The first week in May each year is Elks National Youth Week, during which the Elks recognize young people for their achievements and contributions to their community. Youth Week programs traditionally feature student government days, essay and poster contests, junior fairs, parades and other entertainment. In many communities, the highlight of the week is the award presentation to winners of the annual “Most Valuable Student” scholarship contest.

Every year, the Elks National “Hoop Shoot®” Free Throw Contest continues to grow. More than three million boys and girls from 8 to 13 compete annually. The national finals are held at the Springfield, Massachusetts, Civic Center in May. The names of the six national champions are inscribed on a plaque in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield.

One of the strongest activities in Elkdom has been the Drug Awareness Program. Hundreds of Lodges sponsor their own clinics, seminars and workshops to educate youths and adults. The program targets fourth- through ninth-graders. Since the program’s inception in 1983, the Elks have printed and distributed, free of charge, more than 110 million pieces of educational literature.

The proverb “It takes a village to raise a child” has become a buzz phrase recently. But for the Elks, it was no revelation. They’ve been practicing this belief for years.