12/12/2011
Why I became an Elk. November 2006
The Elks, as a national community service organization, is committed to the support of the very institutions that make our country great.
• Youth
The Elks have a national Drug Awareness Program that focuses on the education of elementary school-aged children. Over 6-million kids participated in this program last year.
Through the Elks’ National Foundation, we invest in the future of our country by awarding scholarships to high school seniors. This year, we plan to award 73 scholarships in the state of California, alone.
The California Hawaii Elks Association’s Major Project provides financial support for a network of therapists who bring their life-saving skills to physically needy children.
The Elks Hoop Shoot, a basketball free throw competition, is the largest national coeducational sports program in the country. More than 3-million kids participated this year.
In addition to participation in these programs, our Sunnyvale Elks’ Lodge provides financial sponsorships to Little League teams and youth soccer teams.
• Veterans
The Elks built the very first veterans’ hospital. It is our pledge to these men and women who are currently serving or have served our country, that we will never forget them. Nationally, the Elks donated more than $16-million to this cause last year.
Our Sunnyvale Elks’ Lodge hosts two annual functions with the Menlo Park VA Hospital. In June, we provide food and entertainment for over 300 hospitalized vets and their families. To celebrate Veterans’ Day in November, we bring over 100 hospitalized vets to our Lodge for dinner and entertainment. Throughout the year, members of our Lodge visit the hospital to host bingo games and provide refreshments.
• Patriotism
The Elks’ flag is the flag of our country. To us, it is the symbol of unity and charity; so, it represents all for which we stand. Every June, every Elks’ Lodge celebrates Flag Day.
• Community
Our Sunnyvale Elks’ Lodge is a major financial contributor to Sunnyvale Community Services an independent, nonprofit emergency assistance agency. Their mission is to prevent homelessness and hunger for low-income families and to help seniors remain independent.
• Social Activity
The Elks do good, and have a good time doing it. Most of the money raised to support our various charitable activities is raised at social functions. Our Sunnyvale Elks’ Lodge has at least 2 week-end social functions each month. The Lodge is open to members throughout the week, offering refreshments, pool, shuffleboard and large screen TV. A delicious and affordable dinner is served every Wednesday. Non-members are welcome on the first Wednesday of each month.
• Fellowship
Having the opportunity to know and work with people who are Elks, is, after all, the greatest reason for being an Elk. All of us roll up our sleeves and do what we can to make our country a better place for our youth, our veterans and our communities.
Gil Argentina, Member of the Board of Trustees
Sunnyvale Elks’ Lodge No. 2128
