Fall-ing into Service with the Service Scorecard

Fall announces itself in a couple ways in the Hoop Shoot office; there’s the first changed leaf and brisk morning, and, of course, the kickoff of Lodge Hoop Shoot contests. This year, fall’s tidings also included our new virtual engagement opportunity, the Service Scorecard. The Service Scorecard mixes the Elks spirit of volunteerism, grit and fun, all for the chance to win prizes—like a $100 donation to the charity of the winner’s choice. While this year’s Hoop Shoot season looks different, we’re offering Hoop Shooters, Elks and others an opportunity to stay engaged with their communities while remaining socially distant.

Last month, we saw participants pick up October’s theme of Off the Court and (safely) run with it. Across the country, participants took part in active, community-based projects of all sorts. In Texas, Alexis Wong, a 2020 8-9 year old State Champ, left encouraging sidewalk chalk messages to remind her community to stay safe.

For Parker Voight, a high school junior from Missouri, service meant large community projects—like clearing out the community pool—and smaller acts of kindness like raking leaves and doing yardwork for neighbors.

The October Service Scorecard raffle winner, Sheahan Gray, served her community by writing chalk messages to first responders with her family. Her mother, Linda, said that, “the projects have been a great motivator for us to get more involved in community service, and we're having a nice time working on the scorecard activities as a family.”

With her $100 donation, Sheahan chose to support the Bella Vita Foundation, a local nonprofit that raises funds for their cross-country teams and donates to Mothers Against Drunk Driving. In a heartfelt message, Sheahan gave a big thank you to all the Elks that made her donation possible.

Throughout October, participants showed how #HoopShootServes. As the seasons change, we look forward to new participants, new experiences, and new opportunities to serve. Whether you’ve been involved in the Hoop Shoot for years or have never picked up a basketball, join us in service with the the Service Scorecard!

November’s theme is thankfulness.