Get to know your community and its needs. Community needs affect a wide range of community members such as families, youth, seniors, veterans, parents, schools or nonprofit organizations. Identify a community need that your project will help (e.g. neighborhood improvement, hunger or domestic abuse). Next, identify potential community partners that can amplify the impact of the Lodge’s project.
Spread the word. It is never too soon to start sharing information about your event. Start spreading the word about your Lodge’s grant project several weeks in advance. Contact local media outlets, such as local television stations and newspapers. For example, Warrington, Fla., Lodge No. 2108 worked with ABC3 to publicize its “Tools for Teachers” program which provides free school supplies to local teachers. Click here to view the video and article about the Lodge’s Gratitude Grant project.
The Elks National Foundation helps Lodges serve their communities by offering $2,000 Gratitude Grants. Lodges are eligible to apply for Gratitude Grants after meeting the National President’s per-member goal for giving to the Foundation. In addition, Lodges that exceed 15 percent membership support last year may be eligible for a $500 bonus. To find out more about Gratitude Grants and the Community Investments Program, visit www.elks.org/enf/cip.