Last Friday, Dierdre and Dr. Roger Perez, of the Orange County Foundation for Oncology Children and Families (OCF-OCF) were invited to the Mission Viejo – Saddleback Valley Elks Lodge #2444 for an evening of dinner, conversation and ceremony.
Elks hosting the event were Exalted Ruler Mike Klinger, his wife, and First Lady Judy Klinger, Event Chairperson and Lodge Trustee Vicky Long and her husband Past Exalted Ruler, Mike Long. In attendance, this evening were many Elks that contributed their volunteer services and donations to this worthy charity.
The Mission Viejo Elks have enjoyed a close relationship with OCF-OCF for more than 15 years, donating hundreds of volunteer service hours and thousands of dollars in charitable donations. This was a night of celebration for a season’s worth of fundraising, culminated with the presentation of an Elks check to OCF-OCF for $3,406.25.
Mission Viejo Elks present check to OCF-OCF rep. Dr. Roger Perez (front right, holding check)
OCF-OCF representative Dr. Roger Perez thanked the Elks assembled and described the organization’s programs that will benefit from Elks charity. OCF-OCF provides children with cancer the opportunity to experience the joys and freedom from worry at summer camps and other activities. Dr. Perez spoke of children removing their hats and wigs that conceal the ravages of their cancer treatments knowing they would not experience gawking eyes but instead enjoy loving hearts.
The Mission Viejo/Saddleback Valley Elks Lodge #2444 is celebrating 49 years of service to Saddleback Valley Communities. It is one of 8 lodges in the Orange Coast District of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPOE) whose headquarters is in Chicago, Illinois. The BPOE is a charitable organization with a 150-year history of giving. “Elks Care Elks Share”. For information regarding Elks programs or membership, call 949 830-3557.
article by Michael W. Long
photograph by Dennis R. Lumley
Andy Costello
Grand Lodge Area 7
Membership & Marketing Committeeman
