How do the Elks compare with the Wounded Warrior Project? Find out in this email! You are receiving this email because you are listed as a State or Lodge Veterans Chair, State newsletter editor, or because you signed up. You may unsubscribe at any time.

The Elks' Turn to Serve

Elks National Veterans Service Commission March Newsletter

So long as there are veterans, the BPOE will never forget them.

Every Elk member knows this oft-repeated pledge. The mission of the ENVSC is to put that pledge into action. And Elks do that every day, through the VAVS program, with Freedom Grant funds, by adopting veterans and more. Many of you may have been following the news coverage of the Wounded Warrior Project recently. The very popular veterans organization recently came under scrutiny because of its spending. How do the Elks compare with the Wounded Warrior Project when it comes to serving veterans? Read more about this issue on the brand new ENVSC blog.

Freedom Grant Update In 2016-17, the ENVSC will again award 180 Freedom Grants of $2,000 each to Lodges that serve the needs of veterans and/or active-duty military members. Applications go online July 1, and will be available through July 31. Lakewood, Colo., Lodge No. 1777 used their 2015-16 Freedom Grant to partner with other Colorado Lodges on a Stand Down for homeless veterans. Read more about the event, and how the Lodge serves homeless veterans year-round.

Bugles Across America Sponsored in part by the ENVSC, Bugles Across America is dedicated to providing free live taps at veterans' funerals across the county. With more than 5000 buglers as members, the organization is able to play at 2300 funerals each month.    "Everyone was impressed and appreciative for your sounding off with Taps at the close of the ceremony. Thank you for standing by us in the cold of that day. " - Robert A. Getz, family member of veteran

Stay Informed  Founded in 2010 as a way for veterans of all ages to connect with and support each other, Team Red, White and Blue already has more than 100,000 members in more than 172 communities worldwide.  The group's mission is to enrich the lives of America’s veterans by connecting them to their community through physical and social activity. Learn more about the group on the Team RWB website. Be sure to also check out their map of current Team RWB chapters to see if there is one in your community!

Follow us on social media! We're just a few fans away from reaching 500 on our Facebook page!  And be sure to check out our new Instagram account!

Questions? Contact us at 773-755-4736 or Vets@elks.org. You are receiving this email because you are listed as a State or Lodge Veterans Chair, State newsletter editor, or because you signed up. You can unsubscribe using the link below at any time.