Elks National President Douglas A. Shiefer has proclaimed November to be Veterans Remembrance Month to honor the men and women who have faithfully served our country as members of the armed forces.
Elks pledge “So long as there are veterans, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will never forget them.” This month and every month, Elks members give generously of their time, energy, and resources to serve veterans and military members in need of support. Last year, the Elks’ time and support of veterans was valued at $55,654,802.
In VA Medical Centers, State Veterans Homes, and communities across the country, Elks are helping veterans access the healthcare, housing, and community connection they need every day.
One way Elks care for veterans is through the Elks Emergency Assistance Fund, which helps veterans prevent or exit homelessness. Recently, we paid a security deposit for a 91-year-old Korean War veteran moving into a new home when his longtime residence was no longer available for rent. Just a few hundred dollars of assistance offered this veteran a new path.
“Thank you to the Elks team and all supporting members,” his VA social worker shared. “The veteran wanted me to share his gratitude for the assistance in a very challenging time. It made a great difference. The funds made rehousing not merely a hope, but made it possible!”
From supporting the children of deployed National Guard members to helping Korean War veterans stay stably housed, veterans and their families know that they can count on the Elks, no matter what stage of their life they are in.
We urge all Americans to join us in service to the veterans in your community. Our nation’s veterans have served their time. Now, it’s our turn to serve.
There are nearly 1,800 Elks Lodges across the country, with a total membership of nearly 800,000. To learn more and to join us in service, visit www.elks.org. For membership information, visit Join.Elks.org.