What are the Elks? BPOE Organization Introduction
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benevolent_and_Protective_Order_of_Elks
Image source: Wikipedia free use:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benevolent_and_Protective_Order_of_Elks
If you're like me, you have seen Elks Lodges throughout America. I have lived around the country and have seen a Lodge in just about every location I have been to. Who are the BPOE, and want do they do inside their lodges?
The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPOE) is a fratenal order founded in 1868 that has gone through many changes since it's inception. The BPOE was founded in New York, and is somewhat similar to the Masons. The order is founded on principles of brotherhood, belief in the principles of freedom in America, service and belief in God. These are all good things, and the Elks are known to give back to their communities throughout the USA.
The Elks have a long history, and their social and charitable investments have helped many. The Elks help the homeless and veterans among many other underrepresented groups to lift them up. The Elks Lodges have entertainment and regular meetings to build community and prosperity.
The current requirements to join the Elks involve the stated belief in God, recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance and being of 21-years or older. Elks Lodges can be found everywhere. Fraternal orders are a good way to build community, and with many in society feeling isolated and alone, joining an Elks Lodge is a good way to stay connected.
You can locate an Elks Lodge near you and read about Elks history at the BPOE website below:
https://www.elks.org/who/ourHistory.cfm
The loss of memberships to orders like the Elks has led to social fracturing. We need to build local community to thrive in America and elsewhere. We need to participate with others of means in our communities to help the less fortunate among us.
The Movie Bowling Alone explored the isolation of Americans and how it negatively impacted our communites. We can counter this negative effect by joining with one another in established organizations and by participating in charitable organizations.