Even during these uncertain times, Mission Viejo/Saddleback Valley Elks Lodge #2444 are keeping donation efforts strong in their community. The Elks National Foundation (ENF) has been assisting Lodges across the country by thinking outside the box to maximize donation opportunities.
Mission Viejo/Saddleback Valley Elks Lodge #2444 applied for a “super-sized” grant from the ENF. This grant was awarded from The Spotlight Grant and Beacon Grant – these were combined to be able to donate $5500 to “Stand up for Kids”. “Stand up for Kids” is a non-profit organization whose mission is to end the cycle of youth homelessness in our community. All of their programs assist youth between the ages of 18-24 and have the goal of guiding homeless youth to self-sufficiency and preventing at-risk youth involvement.
This $5500 follows a $2500 donation to homeless youths attending Saddleback College further highlighting the Elk’s commitment to helping the homeless in their community.
They commend Greg Morgan(Exalted Ruler) for his support in the distribution of this grant and Carlia Oldfather(Americanism Chairman/Stand up for Kids Director and Justine Palmore (Executive Director for Stand up for Kids) for creating such wonderful programs for the youth in our community.
Mission Viejo/Saddleback Valley Elks Lodge #2444 celebrates 50 years of service to Saddleback Valley Communities. It is one of 8 Elks 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 152-year history of giving. “Elks Care Elks Share”. For information regarding Elks programs or membership, call 949 830-3557.
L to R: Past District Deputy Harvey Boelts, Executive Director of Stand up for Kids Justine Palmore, Lodge ENF Grants Chairman Tenisha Campanile, Lodge Americanism Chairman/Stand up for Kids Director Carlia Oldfather, and Past District Deputy/CHEA State Grants Chairman Scott Stevens.
By: Tenisha Campanile
ENF/Grants Chairman
Submitted By: Sandy Gruzdis
Photo Credit: Mission Viejo/Saddleback Valley Elks Lodge #2444
