The Lodge Assistance Grants are designed to help Lodges secure donations from local businesses for specific Lodge charitable projects through monetary donations to the Foundation. In this program, the Foundation extends the benefits of our charitable status to both the business and the Lodge.

All too often, local businesses are reluctant to support Lodge projects because Lodges are not considered charitable organizations under the qualifications of a 501(c)(3). Many businesses even have written policies stating that only 501(c)(3) organizations can receive donation funding from them. In order to help Lodges receive donations from these specific businesses, the Foundation developed the Lodge Assistance Grants.

The Lodge Assistance Grant (LAG) helps Lodges by allowing business that only support charitable 501 (c)(3) organizations to support a specific Lodge charitable program or project through a restricted monetary gift to the ENF. By taking advantage of this opportunity, everyone benefits: the business is able to support a local charitable cause; the Lodge is able to expand on its good deeds; and a community need is addressed. No matter how you slice it, it's a win-win situation!

The Lodge Assistance Grant mechanics are simple.

1. Contact the ENF Programs Department for LAG guidelines and specifics.
2. The Lodge applies for a grant to fund a specific Lodge charitable program or project, such as a holiday food basket program, a veteran's service project, or an event for youth.
3. Upon approval, the ENF receives a cash gift from a local business, restricted for the specific project.
4. The Foundation deposits the gift and issues a new check to the Lodge.
5. The Lodge files a Final Accounting Form with the ENF specifying how the funds were used.

If your Lodge is interested in participating in the program, please contact the ENF Programs Department. We will be happy to discuss your project ideas related to the Lodge Assistance Grant. There are certain restrictions that apply, so please be sure to read the full guidelines, which can be found on the application. Below you can download a copy of the grant application form, which you will submit to us for approval:

• Lodge Assistance Grant (Adobe PDF Format)

For additional information contact us:

Write to:

Elks National Foundation
Programs Department
2750 N. Lakeview Avenue
Chicago, IL 60614-2256

Email: ENFPrograms@elks.org

Call: 773/755-4954