The Lodge’s family friendly atmosphere, coupled with service opportunities that unite young and old, keeps Sturgill coming back.
Now, Sturgill helps her Lodge take advantage of every grant opportunity. She has run a back-to-school supply fair for kids, a blanket drive for veterans, and a Christmas event for those in need.
“A year or two ago, I would have to approach people to help. Now, they’re approaching me to ask what they can do,” says Sturgill.
This year, Sturgill saw ways the Elks could actively get involved at a local VA Hospital. These simple ways added up to an Impact Grant project which includes weekly art classes and a general store for veterans to collect necessities.
“These men and women served our country-- this is the least we can do for them,” says Sturgill.
“Research your project thoroughly and explain exactly what your Lodge plans on doing,” Sturgill says. “The project needs to be something you and the Lodge are passionate about.”
Sturgill possesses a passion for putting service before self in everything she does. It’s this passion that drives her good works, with the help of the Lodge and CIP grants.
The Elks National Foundation will help Lodges meet local needs by investing up to $6.5 million this year in Elks communities through Beacon, Gratitude, Promise and Impact Grants. These grants offer Lodges an opportunity 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.