Scholars on the Court

The statistic is impressive—about 27 percent of teens nationally volunteer, whereas 100 percent of Elks National Foundation Most Valuable Student scholars volunteered in high school. Like any Hoop Shoot champion, Elks scholars are hardworking and high achieving, which makes connecting their passion for service with the Hoop Shoot a perfect fit.

Lodge Hoop Shoot Directors have taken notice, and Elks scholars have been showing up to lend a hand on basketball courts across the country. Read on to learn more about the Elks scholar experience volunteering at the Hoop Shoot. Remember, today’s Hoop Shoot contestants are tomorrow’s Elks scholars!

“It meant a lot that I could directly help youth in my area. As a former state competitor in the Hoop Shoot program, it was meaningful to have the opportunity to provide those same memories and life skills to someone else.”

2014 Legacy Scholar Casey Boyle, Marinette, Wis., Lodge No. 1313

“It was fun to work with the Elks and I am glad I had the opportunity to volunteer with the kids. All of the members were very welcoming and friendly.”

2014 Legacy Scholar Rebecca Kapsak, Richmond, Va., Lodge No. 45

“Serving with the Elks meant a lot to me. I especially enjoyed helping out at the Hoop Shoot because basketball is one of my favorite sports. It is encouraging to see kids get involved with athletics at such a young age.”

2014 Legacy Scholar Marcus Emerson, Gooding, Idaho, Lodge No. 1745

“It was exciting to see how excited the participants were when they were able to advance to the district contest.”

2014 Legacy Scholar Lauren Herrmann, El Campo, Texas, Lodge No. 1749

“Overall, the event went pretty well with 21 participants compared to only eight last year. I met some wonderful Elks and the Ithaca College freshmen from the basketball team helped rebound. I did registration, awards, score calculation, set-up, and was MC, so I was very busy running about, but it was fun interacting with all of the excited (and nervous) kids and their parents.”

2013 MVS Scholar Nate Baker, volunteering at the Ithaca, N.Y., No. 636 contest

Through the Elks National Hoop Shoot Free Throw Program, the Elks National Foundation offers youth the opportunity to engage in healthy competition, connect with their families and community, and succeed both on and off the court. In 2014-15, the ENF allocated $825,160 to fund this program. For more information on the Hoop Shoot, visit www.elks.org/hoopshoot