Each week, the ENF recognizes CIPerstars who have gone above and beyond in their service to the Elks National Foundation. These CIPerstars are recognized for their outstanding contributions to the ENF and the Elks community.
Senior Programs Associate
Programs Associate
Programs Coordinator
5/5/2026 Fort Myers, FL Lodge No: 1288
uses its Beacon Grant to provide mattresses and bedding to veterans who are transitioning into permanent housing. The Lodge supersizes its Beacon Grant with a Gratitude and Spotlight Grant to create a $14,000 grant!
5/5/2026 Plentywood, MT Lodge No: 2566
uses its Beacon Grant to increase public safety and to improve response times for medical emergencies in its remote community. The Lodge provides critically needed AEDs, traffic safety devices, CO2 detectors and a gas leak locator to two volunteer fire departments. The Lodge also provides an AED and first-aid kits for the courthouse, which is accessible 24/7. Lastly, the Lodge also works with its partners on a “Learn to Save a Life” event, where community members can learn first aid, operate an AED, learn about fire safety, and receive information on suicide prevention.
5/5/2026 Fredericksburg, VA Lodge No: 875
uses its Gratitude Grant in partnership with the VA to assist veterans transitioning out of homelessness. The Lodge provides non-perishable food and household items to help veterans settle into their new homes, and extra supplies are kept at the VA health clinic. The Lodge also partners with the VFW for a food drive to maintain the supply of food for vets.
The Elks National Foundation allocated nearly $16 million this year to fund the Community Investments Program. Lodges meet local needs through grants that offer Elks opportunities to serve their 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 elks.org/CIP. If you would like to speak to someone in the CIP office, we can be reached at 773-755-4730.