Elks Lodge Initiates 12 New Members from Across Saddleback Valley
The Mission Viejo-Saddleback Valley Elks Lodge #2444 proudly welcomed 12 new members during a recent initiation ceremony, adding to the growing family of Elks who live, work, and volunteer throughout the Saddleback Valley community.
The new members represent communities across the area and bring with them a shared desire to give back, build friendships, and make a positive impact in the lives of others.
“Every new member strengthens our ability to serve veterans, support local youth, assist families in need, and invest in our community,” said Exalted Ruler Alan Harkness. “We are excited to welcome these new Elks and look forward to the ideas, talents, and enthusiasm they bring to our Lodge.”
The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks is one of America’s largest and most active charitable organizations. Founded in 1868, the Elks have contributed millions of dollars to support veterans, scholarships, youth programs, community projects, and disaster relief efforts nationwide.
Did you know?
- The Elks National Foundation awards more than $15 million annually in scholarships, grants, and charitable programs.
- Elks Lodges collectively donate millions of volunteer hours each year to help communities across America.
- The Elks’ “Dictionary Project” has provided millions of dictionaries to elementary school students nationwide.
- Elks veterans programs support hospitalized veterans, active-duty military personnel, and military families throughout the year.
- The Elks’ motto is: “Elks Care, Elks Share.”
The Lodge invites community members who are interested in making a difference, building lasting friendships, and becoming part of a tradition of service that spans more than 150 years to learn more about membership opportunities.
The Mission Viejo-Saddleback Valley Elks Lodge #2444 is celebrating over 53 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 158-year history of giving. For information regarding Elks programs or Elks membership, call 949 830-3557
Seated L-R: Marcel Motz-MV, James Silberstein-MV, Richard Horan-MV, Jason Uhl-MV, Gary Gregg-Aliso Viejo, Arcadio Rigual-Laguna Niguel, Lori Smith-Trabuco Canyon, ER-Alan Harkness, Raymond Morfina-Laguna Niguel, Da Rhonda Roberts-MV, Belinda Savage-Ladera Ranch, Tonya Gray-Tustin, Lonny Davis-Trabuco Canyon
Standing L-R: Steve Cagnacci-Asst. Inner Guard, PER-Jenny Buford-Inner Guard, Pam Simpson-Chaplain, Ed Merk-5th Yr. Trustee, Linda Cimmarusti-Asst. Tiler, PER Camacho Alvarez-Officer at Large, Debby Lamb-Tiler, Joseph Boncich-Lecturing Knight, Arlene Snyder-Loyal Knight, Randy Notko-Leading Knight, Andy Costello-Organist, PER Kevin Lindley-Secretary, Carolyn Krubbe-Treasurer
Photo Credit: Debby Lamb
