MEMBERSHIP

Our Lodge has been very successful at obtaining grants from the National Elks Foundation, (ENF), called the Community Investment Program grants. In addition, the Florida Elks have provided additional matching funds.  Together these funds have been used to help outstanding local charities. Organizations that have benefited in the past 2 years are:

New Horizons of Southwest Florida is an organization dedicated to improving the education of at risk children in our area.  They serve a group of 700+ kids, K-12, below the poverty level by providing tutoring and mentoring every day after school.  Our grants have purchased computers that they can use at New Horizon after school locations and provide internet access so that their homework can be completed.  Funds have also provided the materials for a literacy reading summer camp. 

Hearts and Homes for Veterans sets up homeless veterans in housing by providing all the basic household items for the veteran to meet their daily needs.  Our grant has been used to identify the items that are most in short supply including bedding, towels, cooking utensils, small appliances, and sanitation supplies.  In addition, our lodge had a drive and 52 sets of new sheets were donated.

Our Mother’s Home is a shelter for pregnant girls from 12 to 19 years old that are pregnant through abuse, rape or trafficking.  Our lodge held a Community Shower luncheon in February and lodge members and friends brought baby supplies and toys. Grant funds were used to purchase larger items, carriers, bedding and other supplies.  In addition, we organized a literacy program conducted by the children education head from the Estero Library was provided. 

Dr. Piper Center Provides assistance to frail seniors who live in our area and are below the poverty level.  Our grant was used to purchase useful items to maintain health & emergency supplies.  We packed kits that included long lasting battery lights, sanitation supplies and first aid kits that are needed.