In the 1940s, the Elks made a commitment to “lay a solid foundation for the future; building the moral and physical character of American boys and girls, the leaders of tomorrow.” Since then, the Elks have done much to fulfill that self-charged responsibility–simply because they knew it was the right thing to do.
Virginia Elks Youth Camp
Virginia Elks Youth Camp, Inc., serves deserving boys and girls aged 8 to 13 years old. We offer a broad program of activities in the belief that the program must be diversified enough to serve the varied needs and interests of our campers. These activities vary from team sports to individual projects.
The unique characteristics of the camp experience provide a singular opportunity to have a positive effect on all boys and girls who enjoy a one-week stay at the Virginia Elks Youth Camp. First of all, the outdoor setting sets camping apart from almost all other institutions. Located in the heart of the Alleghany Mountains, our camp offers an unparalleled outdoor environment. This natural setting, our open fields, and our admirable physical facilities provide us with a delicate balance between “roughing it” and contemporary living in modern society.
Drug Awareness Program
The Elks National Drug Awareness Program strives to teach all children and parents about the dangers of illegal drug use and prevent the abuse of legalized alcohol, tobacco, and prescription drugs. As the largest volunteer drug awareness program in the United States, the program relies on state, district and Lodge volunteers to promote a drug-free lifestyle. By taking pride in America’s communities and youth, the program takes action against youth drug use through education and inspiration.
National “Hoop Shoot” Program
The Elks “Hoop Shoot” Free Throw Contest is the largest, most visible of the many youth activities sponsored by Elks lodges. Over 3,000,000 boys and girls ages 8-13 will participate this year. The Elks “Hoop Shoot” has served to highlight the Elks commitment to America’s youth. From the millions of youngsters who participate and advance through the local, district, state and regional competition, six national champions are named: one boy and one girl in each
of the three categories: ages 8-9, 10-11 and 12-13. The winners each receive a trophy and their names are inscribed on a plaque at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts. Parents accompany contestants throughout the competition. The parents of finalists at the state, regional, and national levels attend the competition as guests of the Elks.
The “Hoop Shoot” program provides a constructive, character-building experience for young people who participate. This program allows competition with peers, free from outside influence of parents, coaches and teammates. It teaches young people the importance of developing individual skills. In addition to the mental and physical benefits provided by competing in the “Hoop Shoot” program, contestants at various levels of competition receive certificates of participation and achievement. Winners may receive trophies and plaques. The names of the national champions are displayed at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts.
The Dictionary Project
The Dictionary Project was founded in 1995 by Mrs. Mary French of Charleston, SC. The sole mission of this non-profit organization is to distribute dictionaries to as many 3rd graders as possible in the 50 United States and our environs.
At this point in time, close to 15 million children have received a dictionary thanks to the generosity of sponsors who have participated in the Dictionary Project.
In the 2004-2005 Lodge year, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks became involved. Dictionaries have been distributed to every U.S state, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Visit here to find out more information and get involved.
Junior Golf Program
One of the fastest-growing co-ed sports in America is golf. With younger players such as Rickie Fowler and Michelle Wie, golf is becoming as popular among boys and girls as soccer. Many high schools now have golf not only as a co-curricular sport, but also as a PE class. Local golf courses are also recognizing the growth and popularity of the sport and are sponsoring numerous programs for young golfers.
In recognizing the popularity of this sport among our youth the Elks have introduced the “Jr. Golf” Program. Programs like these are popular on a national level and encouraged by the nationwide agencies that promote golf, such as the PGA and the USGA. Many local golf courses have youth programs like these to encourage participation in the sport.
