BECAUSE....

BECAUSE  We Elks are a nation-wide fraternal 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 whom we come in contact with.

BECAUSE  We seek to bring into our fraternal family only those who delight in wholesome associations with congenial companions. Only persons who possess a deep sense of patriotism, fair play, chivalry, and dedication to noble causes. Persons who find the fulfillment of their existence in service to humanity, desiring to join 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 benefit 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 become reality when shaped enough by 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 the conscience. We do not permit religious or political differences to intrude into or have any effect upon fraternal deliberations at the local, district, state or national levels.

BECAUSE   You can join with the millions of fine and noble Americans who have helped better the destiny and way of life for countless thousands in our country for over 120 years. The generosity is without fanfare and often even without the recipient’s knowledge. You may even have been helped at some point along the way. 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 begin giving your life new purpose and fulfillment. You’ll never have to stand alone in an uncaring world around you. Now you’ll have a nation-wide family of brothers.

BECAUSE  We expend over two million dollars yearly to bring encouragement, cheer and com fort to hospitalized veterans throughout the United States in fulfillment of our solemn pledge: “So long as there are veterans in our hospitals, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will never forget them.”

BECAUSE   Through the Elks National Foundation, a perpetual fund with assets exceeding one hundred and forty million dollars, we provide over eleven 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 and national programs, we provide healthful activities, guidance and assistance to over eight mil lion boys and girls every year. We fund scholar ships, athletic teams, summer camps, scouting, and drug education programs. We encourage civic, environmental, and patriotic involvement through essay contests, seminars, and distribution of materials; as well as family-oriented activities in our Lodges.

To be continued next month...