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BECAUSE Elks are a nationwide community-service organization of
well over a million American citizens. We love our Country and desire to
preserve its cherished institutions, traditions and values. We respect our
neighbors and constantly seek to promote their well-being. We love and enjoy
life and believe this enjoyment is increased by sharing it with family,
friends and all with whom we come in contact. BECAUSE We seek to bring into our Order only those who delight in wholesome
associations with congenial companions, men and women who possess a deep
sense of patriotism, fair play and dedication to noble causes. Our Members
are people who find the fulfillment of their existence in service to
humanity, in feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless, aiding those in
distress; proving themselves to be true friends to all in need. BECAUSE We lead no one to our doors with any promised material benefits or
fame. We pledge no advancement of personal or career ambitions; instead we
vow to help each other become better and happier persons. We believe in not merely wishing others
well but in manifesting this belief by deeds, seeking to serve rather than to
be served. To Elks, laughter is better than tears, and a kind word is more
powerful than a frown. The dream of a better world becomes reality when
shaped by enough willing hearts and hands. BECAUSE We question no one's
religion, nor do we exclude anyone because of creed, race, ethnic origin,
educational attainment, vocation, material status or physical stature. We measure
character by what one is and does, not by titles or position. We do not seek
to impose different beliefs in place of personal commitments to God, Family
and Country, nor do we ask anyone to act in any manner contrary to the
dictates of conscience. We do not permit religious or political differences
to intrude into organizational considerations at the local, district, state
or national levels. . BECAUSE You can join with the
millions of fine and noble American Elks who have helped better the destiny and
way of life for countless generations in our country for over 130 years. The
generosity is without fanfare and often even without the recipient's
knowledge of the benefactor's identity. You may even have been helped in the
past. We have always been there, quietly providing help and encouragement.
Now it's your turn to get involved, to join America's quiet humanitarians,
and to give your life new purpose and fulfillment. BECAUSE The Elks Lodge in your community affords you the opportunity to join
your neighbors and friends and take a prominent role in the improvement of
community life by the practice of the principles and virtues we have held
sacred for over a century and quarter -Charity,
Justice. Brotherly Love and Fidelity BECAUSE We expend over sixteen
million dollars yearly to bring encouragement, cheer and comfort to veterans
throughout the United States in fulfillment of our solemn pledge: "So long as there are veterans, the Benevolent and
Protective Order of Elks will never forget them." BECAUSE Through the Elks National Foundation perpetual fund with assets
exceeding three hundred a fifty million dollars, we provide over fourteen
million each year for college scholarships, grants for higher education to
children of deceased Elks and other charitable benevolent endeavors. BECAUSE Through our local Lodge, district, state a national programs, we
provide healthful activities, guidance and assistance to over eight million
boys and girls each year. We fund scholarships, athletic teams, summer cam
scouting and drug education programs. We encourage civic environmental and
patriotic involvement through essay contests, seminars and distribution of
materials; as well family-oriented activities in our Lodges. BECAUSE Elks operate numerous camps, hospital clinics, training centers and
in-home services for the care and treatment of children and adults with
physical disabilities including vision and speech problems, across the
country. BECAUSE In our many benevolences Elks and Lodges throughout the United States
spend over forty-five million dollars annually in our various works of
community betterment and charitable programs. This is in addition to
yearly-donated hours equivalent to over one hundred million dollars. BECAUSE In more than 2,000 Elks Lodges throughout the United States, civic
leaders prominent public, business and professional life can be found. In
these Lodges, located in the principal cities and towns throughout America,
smiling faces and a warm welcome await you as an Elk. You'll never have to
stand alone in an uncaring world around you, now that you're a Member the
American Elks family. |
