Supply and Demand
Elks strive to ensure veterans have what they need to successfully transition back into everyday life. Read how Lodges used Community Investments Program grants to provide supplies and support for veterans in need.
Charles City, Iowa, Lodge No. 418
 | Charles City, Iowa, Lodge No. 418 used a Beacon Grant to partner with local VA hospitals and provide clothing for veterans in need. Elks took the veterans shopping for new coats, shoes, socks, hats and jeans in preparation for colder weather. Elks also provided bicycles for veterans as a means of transportation. “This project is the Charles City Elks’ way of thanking local veterans for their service,” says CIP Project Manager Susan Jacob. “We were able to help 12 transitioning veterans with our clothes, bikes and support.” |
Monterey, Calif., Lodge No. 1285
Elks from Monterey, Calif., Lodge No. 1285 know that transitioning back into everyday life can be tough for veterans. Elks used a Gratitude Grant to partner with the Veterans Transition Center to provide housing, supplies and support for local veterans recently returning from service, and homeless veterans transitioning into a new life. Thanks to the the Elks, veterans in Monterey can look forward to support during this difficult time.
“The Elks’ support will help the VTC provide better, quicker response for veterans in need,” says CIP Project Manager Stephanie Pintar. “Through this project, we are able to show how our Lodge helps local veterans.”
Social Networking
Support from faithful friends can help those who are having a tough time. Read how Elks used Community Investments Program grants to help veterans build relationships with the Elks and each other.
Bennington, Vt., Lodge No. 567
| Elks just want to have fun! To connect with veterans living at Bennington’s Vermont Veterans’ Home, Bennington, Vt., Lodge No. 567 used a Gratitude Grant to hold social events for the vets. Throughout the year, Elks held dinners, game nights, bingo, an antique car show, movie nights, and a fishing derby. The Lodge provided transportation, food and gifts for the vets at each event. Since the Elks are involved all year, they have built a strong friendship with the veterans and the community. “The vets have a great time with the Elks,” says CIP Project Manager James Foster. “The grant project has also had a positive impression on all those we come in contact with. Many new members have joined the Elks as a result!” |  |
Blairsville, Pa., Lodge No. 406
Even with social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter, Elks know it can be hard for young veterans to meet peers also transitioning back into everyday life. Using a Beacon Grant, Blairsville, Pa., Lodge No. 406 held a networking event for student veterans attending WyoTech College. Elks invited other local veterans and city officials to the event so the student vets had the opportunity to connect with their classmates and their community. They also provided information about local benefits and activities available to veterans.
“The networking event allowed us to make a connection with WyoTech student veterans,” says CIP Project Manager Leann Chaney. “It raised our Lodge’s profile in the community and motivated us to continue partnering with local veterans and military service groups.”
From the Mess Hall to the Lodge
Sharing a meal is a great way to connect with others. To reach out to veterans, read how Elks used Community Investments Program grants to provide more than a hot meal for local veterans in need.
Rochester, N.H., Lodge No. 1393
 | Using a Beacon Grant, Elks from Rochester, N.H., Lodge No. 1393 held lunches for veterans living at three local nursing homes. Elks served and socialized with the vets, who enjoyed music and entertainment as they ate their fish fry lunch. “Our guests loved the food and the entertainment,” says Project Manager Norman Gervais. “They can’t wait to come back. We have another lunch scheduled already.” |
Sparks, Nev., Lodge No. 2397
Veterans in Sparks, Nev., heard the Elks’ dinner bell! Using a Gratitude Grant, Sparks, Nev., Lodge No. 2397 held monthly dinners for veterans living at a local VA hospital. To keep in touch with the vets between dinners, Elks hold game nights every other week. Elks are always on hand to serve food, deal for a card game, and listen to the veterans’ stories.
“The veterans are given the opportunity to tell others about themselves and their lives,” says CIP Project Manager Fred Kelly. “They are appreciative and always enjoy the chance to socialize with the Elks.”
A Trip to Remember
Elks know that veterans in need don’t often have the opportunity to enjoy activities outside their homes. Read how Lodges used Community Investments Program grants to take veterans on exciting outings.
Bradenton, Fla., Lodge No. 1511
Elks in Bradenton, Fla., cast their lines and reeled in local veterans in need! Using a Gratitude Grant, Bradenton, Fla., Lodge No. 1511 took 12 veterans with disabilities on a fishing trip. After a day of friendship and sunshine, the whole crew headed back to the Lodge to cook their catch.
“I think it is so important to help each other in these events,” says one vet on the fishing trip. “It’s just been a great day for all of us.”
The Elks are hooked—the Lodge is already planning its next fishing trip.
Gulf Coast, Ala., Lodge No. 2782
It’s a night at the museum for veterans living at the William F. Green Veterans Home! Elks from Gulf Coast, Ala., Lodge No. 2782 used a Beacon Grant to bring 13 World War II veterans to the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola, Fla. After a private tour of the museum, they enjoyed lunch together. Each vet left with a gift and new friends in the Elks.
“We all had a great time at the museum,” says CIP Project Manager Pamela Stephens. “The vets appreciated the trip and the Elks’ fellowship so much.”
The Elks National Foundation will help Lodges meet local needs by investing up to $8.5 million this year in Elks communities through Beacon, Gratitude, Promise and Impact Grants. These grants offer Lodges opportunities to serve the community in ways that will raise the Lodge’s profile, energize the membership, encourage former members to return to the fold, and gain the notice of people who want to be part of an organization that’s doing great things. To learn more about the Community Investments Program, please visit www.elks.org/enf/community.
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