Benefits of Membership
As a member of a New Hampshire Elks Lodge, you are automatically a member of the New Hampshire State Elks Association. But membership is about much more than belonging to an organization—it is about making a difference.
Active Elks experience the satisfaction that comes from helping others and strengthening their communities. The support we provide is only possible because of the dedication and generosity of our members.
Whether it's playing a game of cards with a disabled veteran, serving a holiday meal to a senior, seeing the smile on a young adult's face after attending Copper Cannon Camp or participating in Hoop Shoot, or recognizing a deserving high school senior with a scholarship, every act of service makes a lasting impact.
Being an Elk means creating moments of hope, kindness, and opportunity—and those are some of the most rewarding experiences you will ever have.
An Elk's Commitment
As Elks, we are dedicated to our country, our flag, and the communities we proudly serve. Our Order has long upheld the promise that, "As long as there is a veteran in a hospital, they will never be forgotten." This commitment reflects our deep respect and gratitude for those who have served our nation.
We honor the American flag and all it represents, support the Constitution of the United States, and salute the courageous men and women who have defended—and continue to defend—our freedoms. The Elks are also proud to be the only fraternal organization with a federally recognized Flag Day observance, a tradition that reflects our enduring patriotism.
Our motto, "Elks Care, Elks Share," is more than just a slogan—it is a way of life. Whether we're supporting veterans, assisting families in need, mentoring youth, or giving back to our communities, we strive to make a meaningful difference. Along the way, we've discovered that serving others and enjoying fellowship go hand in hand. Together, we make a positive impact while creating lasting friendships and memories.
History of the Elks
The moving spirit behind the Elks was an Englishman named Charles Algernon Sidney Vivian. Born on October 22, 1842, the son of a clergyman, Vivian was a successful comic singer and dancer in the music halls of London. In November 1867, he arrived in New York City to seek new opportunities. His outgoing personality quickly attracted other actors and entertainers, and together they formed a social group known as the Jolly Corks, a name inspired by a popular practical joke of the day.
When a friend and fellow member of the Jolly Corks died, leaving his wife and children without financial support, the group realized the need for something more meaningful than a social club. They envisioned an organization built on fellowship while providing assistance to those in need.
On February 16, 1868, they founded the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States. Through social activities, charitable work, and benefit performances, the new Order quickly gained popularity. Membership grew rapidly, and Elks traveling throughout the country shared the ideals of the organization, inspiring requests to establish lodges in other communities.
To meet this growing demand, the Elks petitioned the New York State Legislature for a charter authorizing the creation of a Grand Lodge with the authority to establish local lodges throughout the United States. After the Grand Lodge Charter was granted, the founders received the first local charter as New York Lodge No. 1 on March 10, 1871.
While the Order has grown and evolved over the years, its mission has remained constant: to promote charity, justice, brotherly love, and fidelity while serving our communities and supporting those in need. Membership has also become more inclusive. Today, individuals who are at least 21 years of age, are citizens of the United States, believe in God, and are invited to join may become members of the Elks.
If you have a friend, neighbor, or family member who is an Elk, ask them about our organization. Visit a local lodge, meet our members, and see firsthand the difference the Elks make in their communities. If you decide to join, you'll complete an application, meet with an investigating committee, and begin your journey toward membership.
But remember—your membership card is more than a card. Its true value comes from the lives you touch, the friendships you build, and the difference you make through service to others. The greatest rewards of being an Elk come not from belonging, but from participating.
A Tradition of Giving: The BPO Elks
The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks is dedicated to improving the lives of others through a wide range of youth, charitable, patriotic, veterans, and community service programs. While this is only a partial list, it reflects the many ways Elks make a positive impact in our communities.
Youth Programs
Elks Hoop Shoot® Free Throw Contest
Most Valuable Student and other scholarship programs
Support for Scouting organizations
Youth camps and leadership opportunities
Athletic Programs
Little League
Football, basketball, soccer, bowling, golf, and swimming
Special Olympics support
Summer camps and youth recreation
Medical Assistance
Hospital support
Blood drives and blood bank assistance
Eyeglasses and hearing aids
Prosthetic devices
Wheelchairs and mobility equipment
Physical therapy assistance
Medical scholarships
Support groups and other health-related programs
Patriotic Programs
Flag Day observances
Memorial Day ceremonies
Constitution Week and constitutional awareness
Americanism Essay Contest for students in grades 5–8
Veterans Programs
Hospital visits
Picnics and outings
Recreational and athletic events
Specialized medical and adaptive equipment
In-hospital activities and year-round support for veterans
Community Service Programs
Donation of lodge facilities for community use
Food baskets and hunger relief
Senior citizen programs
Citizen of the Year recognition
Law Enforcement Officer of the Year recognition
Teacher and Student recognition programs
Drug Awareness Programs
The Elks Drug Awareness Program helps educate young people about the dangers of drug and substance abuse. Educational materials and presentations are available for elementary and secondary schools, as well as healthcare providers, hospitals, clinics, and other community organizations.
These programs represent the heart of what it means to be an Elk. Through volunteer service, charitable giving, and community partnerships, Elks members continue to make a lasting difference in the lives of children, veterans, families, and neighbors across New Hampshire and throughout the nation.
A Helping Hand in Troubled Times:
The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America is one of the nation's oldest and largest fraternal organizations. Founded in 1868, the Order has grown into a nationwide network of more than 2,000 lodges, united by a shared commitment to charity, patriotism, and community service.
For more than 150 years, Elks have provided billions of dollars in charitable contributions through cash donations, volunteer service, and community programs that benefit our nation's youth, veterans, people with disabilities, families in need, and countless civic and patriotic organizations. Each year, Elks continue this tradition of generosity by investing millions of dollars and millions of volunteer hours in communities across America. The Elks are also recognized as one of the nation's largest private providers of college scholarships.
Although the Elks' charitable impact is extensive, the organization has never sought public recognition for its good works. Rather than relying on public fundraising campaigns or government funding, Elks support their charitable programs through the generosity, dedication, and volunteer spirit of their members. Throughout the years, Elks have donated to hospitals, schools, police and fire departments, veterans' programs, youth organizations, and community initiatives, quietly improving the lives of millions of Americans.
The strength of the Order comes from the generosity and commitment of its members. Their willingness to give their time, talents, and resources—without expectation of recognition—embodies the true spirit of volunteerism and service.
Leadership within the Elks is also rooted in that spirit. Elected officers, from the Exalted Ruler of each local lodge to the Grand Exalted Ruler, the national president of the Order, serve without compensation. The organization is governed through democratic representation, with policies and laws established by delegates representing lodges from across the nation at the Grand Lodge Convention.
The Elks National Headquarters is located in Chicago, Illinois. The campus is home to the historic Elks National Memorial Building, the Elks National Foundation, the Elks National Veterans Service Commission, and The Elks Magazine, the official publication distributed to members throughout the United States.
For generations, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks has remained true to its founding principles of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love, and Fidelity. Guided by these values, Elks continue to strengthen communities, honor our nation's veterans, support America's youth, and provide hope and assistance to those in need.
The Elks and Disaster Relief
Since its earliest days, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks has responded whenever communities have faced tragedy. In 1871, after the Great Chicago Fire devastated the city, the Elks organized a benefit to provide financial assistance to those who had lost so much. That response established a tradition of compassion and service that continues today.
Throughout the years, the Elks have provided relief following floods, earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, fires, mining disasters, epidemics, and other natural and man-made catastrophes. In 1889, the Order assisted families affected by the devastating Johnstown Flood and the Seattle Fire. In 1892, the Elks joined the American Red Cross in providing aid to victims of famine in Russia, beginning a long-standing partnership dedicated to helping those in need.
Following the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, the Elks were among the first organizations to respond. Within hours, members established temporary shelters, equipped hospitals, distributed food and supplies, and coordinated relief efforts for thousands of displaced residents. Elks from across the nation contributed financial support, demonstrating the strength of a united organization committed to helping others.
That spirit of service has continued through every generation. Whether responding to the Oklahoma City bombing, the terrorist attacks of September 11, hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, wildfires, or other disasters, Elks have consistently provided financial assistance, volunteer support, and compassionate care to those whose lives have been disrupted by tragedy.
When disaster strikes, Elks are there—offering hope, comfort, and practical assistance when it is needed most.
For more than a century, the Elks have recognized that investing in young people is one of the greatest investments we can make in the future. Early in the twentieth century, the Order pledged to help build the moral, intellectual, and physical character of America's youth—a commitment that remains as strong today as ever.
Perhaps no area of Elks service is more important than its dedication to young people. Through scholarships, youth leadership programs, athletic competitions, summer camps, educational initiatives, and drug awareness programs, the Elks provide opportunities that encourage young people to develop confidence, leadership skills, and a lifelong commitment to serving others.
The Order proudly sponsors programs that recognize academic achievement, citizenship, leadership, and community service. Events such as Elks National Youth Week celebrate outstanding young people who make positive contributions to their schools and communities. Throughout the year, local lodges also sponsor youth fairs, career nights, student government programs, athletic events, leadership activities, and educational opportunities that help prepare young people for successful futures.
The Elks believe today's youth are tomorrow's leaders. By encouraging achievement, rewarding excellence, and providing opportunities to grow, the Order continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of young people across America.
Through its unwavering commitment to disaster relief, youth development, veterans' services, scholarships, and community outreach, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks continues to uphold its founding principles of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love, and Fidelity. Every act of kindness, every volunteer hour, and every life touched reflects the enduring mission of the Elks: to serve others, strengthen our communities, and build a brighter future for generations to come.
Youth Activities
The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks believes that today's youth are tomorrow's leaders. Through local, state, and national programs, Elks Lodges provide opportunities that encourage leadership, teamwork, sportsmanship, citizenship, and personal growth.
Across the country, Elks Lodges proudly support Boys & Girls Clubs, 4-H programs, Scouting, youth athletics, fine arts, speech and debate programs, and many other community organizations. Many lodges also open their facilities for youth meetings and activities, helping ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.
Elks Hoop Shoot®
One of the Order's signature youth programs is the Elks Hoop Shoot® National Free Throw Contest. Since its beginning in 1946, the program has helped millions of boys and girls develop confidence, discipline, and good sportsmanship through friendly competition.
Open to boys and girls ages 8 through 13, participants compete in age divisions by demonstrating their free-throw shooting skills. Beginning at the local lodge level, successful competitors advance through district, state, regional, and national contests. While only a handful reach the national finals, every participant gains valuable life lessons in perseverance, integrity, and sportsmanship.
Elks Soccer Shoot®
The Elks Soccer Shoot® program gives young athletes another opportunity to build confidence while having fun. Open to boys and girls under the age of 14, the competition challenges participants to demonstrate accuracy and skill by kicking soccer balls through progressively smaller goal openings.
Like the Hoop Shoot®, the Soccer Shoot® promotes sportsmanship, healthy competition, and personal achievement while encouraging young people to stay active and develop their athletic abilities in a safe and supportive environment.
Special Youth Programs
Drug Awareness
The Elks Drug Awareness Program is one of the largest volunteer drug awareness programs in the United States. Through educational materials, school presentations, community events, and partnerships with educators and law enforcement, the program helps young people understand the dangers of drug, alcohol, tobacco, and substance abuse.
Local lodges also sponsor drug- and alcohol-free activities, including post-prom and graduation celebrations, youth events, and educational programs that encourage healthy choices and positive lifestyles. By working together with parents, schools, healthcare professionals, and community organizations, Elks continue to promote safe, drug-free communities.
Scholarships and Educational Grants
Education has always been one of the Elks' highest priorities. Through local lodges, state associations, and the Elks National Foundation, millions of dollars in scholarships and educational grants are awarded each year to deserving students.
Programs include the prestigious Most Valuable Student Scholarship, Legacy Awards for the children and grandchildren of Elks members, Emergency Educational Grants, vocational and trade school assistance, and numerous state and local scholarship opportunities. These investments help students pursue higher education while recognizing academic achievement, leadership, community service, and financial need.
Investing in America's Future
For generations, the Elks have believed that investing in young people is one of the greatest investments we can make. Through scholarships, youth leadership, athletics, Scouting, educational programs, and community partnerships, Elks continue to provide opportunities that help young people reach their full potential.
Each year, thousands of Elks volunteers dedicate countless hours to mentoring, coaching, teaching, and encouraging the next generation. Their commitment reflects the enduring belief that by supporting today's youth, we are building stronger families, stronger communities, and a brighter future for America.
The future begins with our youth—and the Elks are proud to help them succeed.
Remembering Our Nation's Veterans
Since 1917, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks has demonstrated its compassion for the veterans of our armed forces through a number of programs and activities. The Elks realize that in every state, city, town, and village in our nation there is a hospital, nursing home, or other Veterans Administration (VA) medical facility that houses veterans deserving the utmost respect. And that is why the Order made a pledge that "So long as there are veterans, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will never forget them." The Elks and Patriotism: Inspiring National and Civic Pride. Since the earliest days of the Order, patriotism has been among the many hallmarks that make the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks stand out from other fraternal organizations. With a membership composed entirely of US. citizens, the BPO Elks is committed to promoting the principles of individual freedom, opportunity, and dignity.
The Stars and Stripes
Elks have always been moved in the presence of the flag of the United States of America, which is why, in 1907, Elks members adopted a resolution designating June 14 as Flag Day. In 1911 the Grand lodge mandated that all local Lodges observe Flag Day with appropriate ceremonies, making the Elks the first national fraternal organization to require the observance of Flag Day. Finally, on August 3, 1949, President Harry S. Truman, himself a member of the Order, permanently designated June 14 as Flag Day by signing an act of Congress. But observing Flag Day isn't the only way that the Order demonstrates its deep reverence for the banner that symbolically embodies the values of the nation. Many lodges give or sell flags to worthy groups and provide training in proper flag etiquette. Some lodges even provide flags for newly sworn citizens, while other lodges give flags to their local schools for display in the classroom and provide educational materials to help grade school students learn the Pledge of Allegiance. Each year, Elks across the country sponsor essay contests that encourage elementary and high school students to explore why the flag is important in their lives.
Lady Liberty
At their 1983 national convention, the Elks passed a resolution endorsing the Liberty Centennial Campaign's work to restore the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island and pledging its full support to the campaign. For its part, the Order vowed to raise one million dollars in three years. Elks from across the country enthusiastically responded to the Order's pledge, and by 1986 the Order had exceeded its original goal, contributing more than $1.38 million to restore this treasured symbol of the nation's promise of freedom and opportunity.
The National World War II Memorial
In 1999, the members of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks gladly approved a resolution pledging an amount equal to one dollar per member to the National World War II Memorial. The memorial, which has been built on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. will preserve the memory of the more than 16 million people who served in World War II, the more than 400,000 who died, and the millions more who made other sacrifices to support those in combat overseas. The Elks exceeded their pledge, generating more than $1.22 million for this monument of tribute.
Civic Pride
In nearly 2,000 communities, local Elks lodges work valiantly to promote civic pride. Local lodges regularly hold functions to recognize and celebrate the achievements of local emergency services personnel, teachers, leading citizens, educators, students, and government officials. Elks also demonstrate the pride that they feel toward their communities by volunteering and making financial contributions to local charitable organizations.
In Defense of the Nation
In times of war and international conflict, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks has made considerable contributions to the nation's armed forces. The Order considers its work done to aid in the defense of the nation as one of its proudest and most lasting achievements.
World War I
Elks patriotism and generosity helped the nation to victory in World War I. In 1917, the Grand Lodge allocated $2 million to finance efforts to assist U.S. soldiers. The Order organized and equipped the first two base hospitals in France. And to accommodate the maimed and wounded, the Elks built a 700-bed Reconstruction Hospital and gave it to the War Department in 1918. This was the first of what were to become the Veterans Administration medical facilities. That same year, the Order built a 72-room Community House to take care of the families visiting the 40,000 soldiers stationed at Camp Sherman, Ohio. During the war, the Salvation Army was severely handicapped in its great efforts to aid servicemen by lack a of funds. To make sure that this work continued, the Elks undertook campaigns to raise funds for the Salvation Army, and on many occasions the Elks assumed the entire coast of these undertakings. In addition, at Christmastime in 1918, the Order gave the Salvation Army $60,000 to continue its programs. Following the war's end, the Elks made 40,000 rehabilitation, vocational, and educational loans to disabled veterans who were ineligible for government help or who were waiting approval of their applications. This service was so effective that the government followed the Elks' example and established a revolving fund that was the precursor of the GI Bill. More than 70,000 Elks served in the armed forces during World War 1. More than 1,000 made the supreme sacrifice.
World War II
Throughout World War II, the Elks contributed to the war effort by providing for members of the armed forces both at home and abroad. By the time hostilities ceased, the Grand Lodge had spent more than $1.5 million, while local lodges spent hundreds of thousands of dollars more to provide assistance to our men in uniform. During World War II, Elks lodges spearheaded local recruitment efforts, directly helping to enlist more than 142,000 men into the armed forces as well as thousands of construction specialists who dramatically aided the war effort. Additionally, more than 400 lodges conducted refresher courses that qualified thousands of young men for training as army flying cadets. The Order also realized the need to boost the morale of servicemen stationed far from home. Across the country, the Elks sponsored 155 Elks fraternal centers, where GIs were invited to relax, socialize, and enjoy the hospitality of the Elks. More than one million servicemen visited the center in New York City. For those serving overseas, the Elks prepared and sent care packages containing candy, personal grooming supplies, and other comforting items.
Korea and Vietnam
When war broke out in Korea in 1950, the Elks responded by sending gift packs to those serving their country as they had done in World War II. In 1951, the secretary of defense appealed to the Order for help in procuring blood for the wounded. Within a few months, Elks lodges obtained more than half a million pints. During the Vietnam War, the Elks again answered the call by beginning the Letters from Home campaign. Elks members from across the country flooded our young servicemen and women with letters expressing gratitude for the sacrifices they were making on behalf of the nation. In addition to the letters, the Order provided care packages to soldiers.
Operation Desert Storm and Beyond
As in previous conflicts, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks stood ready to aid the men and women of the U.S. armed forces when the Gulf War commenced. Once again, the Elks mounted a letter writing campaign to thank these patriots for their dedicated service, and gift packs for soldiers were provided as they had been in the past. At the close of the Gulf War, many Elks lodges made arrangements to host ceremonies honoring the brave soldiers returning from the conflict in the Middle East, making the Order one of the first organizations to formally welcome these veterans home. And now the Elks have stepped forward yet again to help our armed forces. Today the Army of Hope is charged with assisting the families of those in uniform with their need's at home. Through these programs and many others, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks has truly established itself as a leading force in promoting the values that help shape and strengthen the United States.