Welcome to the Elks

You have joined the premier charitable fraternal organization in the United States. Your journey through membership starts here. Below you will find resources to learn more about the Elks, what we do, and ways you can get involved to make a difference in your community.

Learn more about the Elks

The statues representing the Cardinal Principles of our order are located inside the Elks National Veterans Memorial Building in Chicago, IL which also serves as the national headquarters of our organization. In 2026, at the Grand Lodge Convention in Chicago we celebrated the 100th anniversary of the Elks National Veterans Memorial. Learn more about this magnificent structure and its centennial celebration by watching this video.

Elks Mission Statement

To inculcate the principles of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity; to recognize a belief in God; to promote the welfare and enhance the happiness of its Members; to quicken the spirit of American patriotism; to cultivate good fellowship; top perpetuate itself as a fraternal organization, and to provide for its government, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America will serve the people and communities through benevolent programs, demonstrating that Elks Care and Elks Share.

You can show you support for our State Major Project Elks Youth Eye Service with donor recognition program that recognizes those members who help give the gift of sight to children across Oregon.

In addition to our State Major Project EYES, the Oregon Elks also support Camp Meadowood Springs Speech and Hearing camp to support campers with speech and hearing needs.

The Elks are more than a place to gather. It’s a way to make a positive impact.

Being an Elk is about more than membership in a Lodge. It is about making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Across Oregon and throughout the nation, Elks are committed to strengthening communities, supporting those in need, and creating opportunities for future generations. Here are just a few of the ways we put our values of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love, and Fidelity into action.

  • Supporting Our Veterans - So long as there are veterans, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will never forget them. From providing essential supplies and assistance to veterans experiencing homelessness to supporting veterans in hospitals, care facilities, and our local communities, Elks are committed to honoring those who have served. Across Oregon, our Lodges volunteer thousands of hours each year to ensure veterans receive the recognition, care, and support they deserve.

  • Investing in Education Through Scholarships - The Elks believe that investing in education means investing in the future of our communities. Through national, state, and local scholarship programs, we help deserving students pursue higher education, recognize academic achievement, and encourage leadership and community service. Each year, Elks scholarships help students take the next step toward achieving their dreams.

  • Promoting Drug Awareness - Helping young people make healthy, informed choices is an important part of our commitment to stronger communities. Through the Elks Drug Awareness Program, we provide educational resources, sponsor youth activities, and partner with families, schools, and community organizations to promote drug-free lifestyles. Our goal is to give young people the knowledge and confidence to make positive decisions for their futures.

  • Helping Children See a Brighter Future: Elks Youth Eye Service (EYES) - The Elks Youth Eye Service (EYES) is the Oregon State Elks Association's State Major Project, dedicated to helping children receive the vision care they need. Through the generosity and volunteer efforts of Oregon Elks, EYES helps provide vision screenings, eye examinations, glasses, and other vision-related assistance to children who might otherwise go without essential care. By helping children see clearly, we help open doors to learning, opportunity, and a brighter future.

  • Building Confidence Through the Elks Hoop Shoot - The Elks Hoop Shoot is a nationwide free-throw basketball competition that encourages young people to develop confidence, perseverance, and good sportsmanship. Open to boys and girls ages 8–13, the program provides opportunities to compete at local, district, state, regional, and national levels. More than a basketball contest, Hoop Shoot teaches valuable life lessons about hard work, dedication, and doing your best.

Your Opportunity to Make a Difference

These programs represent just a portion of the good work Elks do every day. Every Lodge has its own traditions, charitable activities, and opportunities to serve. As a new Elk, you are now part of that mission, and we encourage you to discover the many ways you can get involved, build friendships, and make a lasting difference in your community.

Community. Friendship. Charity.

 

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