Approximately 2100 ELKs Lodges exist nationwide! Traditionally Elk Lodges are a community & charitable giving organization with membership of men and woman who truly believe, "Elks Care, Elks Share!"The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks was founded by Charles Vivian, a stage singer from England, who arrived at age 25, and learned that there were "Blue Laws," which closed every bar & restaurant in New York City on Sundays. As a visitor who enjoyed good food and social drinking, laughter and song, he established a theatrical group of friends called the "JOLLY CORKS!"When the group eventurally grew, it adopted a charitable purpose, first to help performers and their families during financial droughts between jobs. The group decided to formalize the charitable and social society and chose the name Elk (Beavers, Bears, and Fox were also considered) as a distinctly American Emblem, and because elks preyed upon no other species, but fight valiantly in defense of its kind! This formalized the Organized! Some very famous Elks Are: Harry Truman, Gerald Ford, Gene Autry, Lawrence Welk, and Clint Eastwood.Our past National President Jim Grillo, recently commented the focus is for young people to become members and be able to take over! There are opportunities for leadership in every lodge for service for the many young men and women to serve our community. The Burbank Lodge #1497 has been chartered for over 80 years and is welcoming more members who wish to be the new era in lodges where Fun and laughter and food is enjoyed by our friends and the entire community inviting & sharing the new premises for various occasions Weddings, Anniversaries Birthdays and other social functions to the delight of our members and charitable groups as well. Come Join us, become a member. We invite one and all to become ELKS in the name of Charity, justice and Brotherly Love.Joseph Caruso