Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks

Non-profit OrganizationsIllinois, United States201-500 Employees

Founded in 1868 by New York actor Charles Vivian, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks has cultivated nearly one million members in its 149 years, making the Elks one of the leading fraternal orders in the United States. 

In 1868, the "Jolly Corks" initially created a fraternal community to bypass tavern laws. After one of the founding members passed away, the "Jolly Corks" revolutionized their club, focusing on charitable roles just as much as sociability. With this shift in morale, the "Jolly Corks" agreed to change their name to "a readily identifiable creature indigenous to America." With that in mind, the "Jolly Corks" chose the Elk, with 8 votes over the Buffalo, which had 7.

Over the next 149 years, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks expanded across the United States and former territories, the Philippines and the Panama Canal, creating 2,000 local lodges. Elks are providing charitable services that help build stronger communities, such as providing college scholarship funds, Hoop Shoot youth basketball team programs, youth drug awareness programs, the Elks National Memorial honoring Elk veterans for their service, programs for veterans, community investments, state projects, and member benefits such as discounted travel, insurance, and other Elks-partnered products.

Organizations within the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks include:
-National Home and Retirement Center
-Elks National Foundation
-Elks National Veterans Service Commission
-Elks Veterans Memorial Restoration

Next year marks the 150th anniversary celebration of the BPOE. Join us in commemorating the honorable strives Elks members have made in their communities since 1868.

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