National Veterans Service Commission
Welcome!
Welcome to the Elks National Veterans Service Commission's Online Resource Center. Several of our Grand Exalted Rulers have stated that in their travels, they found those associated with the National Veterans Service program to be the most dedicated of the dedicated. Furthermore, many Chiefs of Voluntary Service at VA Medical Centers have told us, “Whenever we want something, we can count on the Elks.”
In each of the 172 VA Medical Centers there is an Elk committee at work. Literally, thousands of Elks and their families give generously of their time, energy and resources so that the lives of our ill and aging veterans will be enhanced. Hundreds of thousands of hours and like numbers of dollars are devoted to programs that are designed to keep us true to our pledge: ”So long as there are veterans, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will never forget them.“ And now we've broadened our program to include outpatients and veterans who are homeless.
The purpose of this online resource center is not only to inform the public and our own members of our good works, but also to help our Veterans Service chairmen and committee members live up to our pledge. We've tried to answer the questions most often asked and to spell out the responsibilities of chairmen on all levels. We've also included suggestions to strengthen your program.
Our goal is to make the Elks the most visible force in voluntary service to our veterans. Hopefully this resource center will be useful in that quest.
News from the Front
- GL Newsletter, August 2009 Veterans Message: Adopt-A-Veteran today!
- For nearly thirty years the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks has been actively involved in our Adopt-A-Veteran Program. It is a very popular program that every Elks Lodge should participate in. The Elks’ commitment, “So long as there are Veterans, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will never forget them,” is as relevant today as it was many years ago. We must not ignore the needs of our Veterans, especially those who are without family and friends close by. We can help brighten their lonely days by adopting them and involving them in Lodge activities, providing outings and dinners and making them feel special and honored for their sacrifices.
- GL Newsletter, July 2009 Veterans Message: Playing Cards program adds social dimension for veterans
- In February 2003, the Elks National Veterans Service Commission announced a program of mobilizing an Army of Hope to assist the families of Military Reservists and the National Guard who have been called to active duty during this time of crisis.
- Alaska Elks Wounded Veterans Project
- The weekend of March 6th Homer Lodge #2127, in cooperation with the Homer Snomads and American Legion hosted 6 Wounded Warriors to a weekend of ice fishing, snow machining and hospitality. These deserving troops arrived from the Fort Richardson Transitional Care Unit via the State Elks Bus on Friday evening and were hosted at the lodge for some fine dining and camaraderie. While at the lodge each Wounded Warrior was presented a Certificate of Gratitude by Jan Jonker, our ASEA Wounded Veterans Project Coordinator.
- GL Newsletter, June 2009 Veterans Message: Playing Cards program adds social dimension for veterans
- Elks have a great heritage of service to our community and our fellowman. We have humbly worked to make our communities a better place to live, provide programs and scholarships for our youth and enhance the level of comfort for our nation's Veterans.
