In 1928, one man's dream became a reality for all Elks. Then-Grand Exalted Ruler John F. Malley envisioned a plan that would "Unite the forces of the Order into a mighty army for the service of mankind". During the annual Grand Lodge Convention in Miami that year, Malley's call to service inspired delegates to take action by voting to establish the Elks National Foundation with an initial $100,000 grant.
Today, the mission of the Elks National Foundation is to help Elks build stronger communities. We fulfill this pledge by investing in communities where Elks live and work. We provide tomorrow's leaders, our youth, with a healthy beginning; honor the Elks' pledge to never forget our veterans; help the state Elks associations accomplish their charitable objectives and fund projects that improve the quality of life in local Elks communities.
The Elks National Foundation annually awards more than $3.4 million in scholarships to a total of 508 students, and an additional $500,000 in emergency educational grants for children of deceased or disabled Elks.
Visit the Elks National Foundation webpage and discover the many programs going on within. They are in Chicago, IL.
