What is the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks?

Founded in 1868, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks is one of the oldest and largest private organizations in the United States. Today there are nearly 1.3 million members of the Elks in 2,200 local lodges found in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and several overseas locations. Lodges provide recreational facilities for the entire family, and they are the focal point for many community services and charitable programs.

Getting Involved in Scouting Offers Lodges and their Members Many Benefits, Including

• Higher visibility in the community, by having an active Scouting program identified with the lodge. 
• Providing an excellent opportunity for lodge members to mentor youth. 
• Greater understanding of the principles of charity, justice, brotherly love, and fidelity. 
• Providing service to the community by offering a time-tested, high-quality developmental youth program with continuous identification with youth. 
• Participating in the development of more responsible young adults by instilling in them the values expressed in the Scout Oath and Law. 
  
  The available brochure is "Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and Scouting," No. 03-117.

Marvin M. Lewis Award