Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks of the USA

Follow Message Edit

THE ORGANIZATION'S PRIMARY EXEMPT PURPOSE IS TO PROVIDE ITS MEMBERS THE OPPORTUNITY TO FOLLOW PRINCIPLES OF CHARITY, JUSTICE, BROTHERLY LOVE, FIDELITY, AND CAMARADERIE.

Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the USA

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the USA, also known as the Elks Lodge or simply the Elks, is a prominent American fraternal order and charitable organization. Founded on February 16, 1868, in New York City, it originally came into existence as a social club for minstrel show performers but eventually evolved into a nationwide brotherhood dedicated to community service, patriotism, and mutual aid.

History

The organization was established by actor Charles Algernon Sidney Vivian, a British expatriate and member of the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes. Initially known as the "Jolly Corks," the group's name was changed to the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks by December 1868. This transformation was largely influenced by the death of a fellow actor due to insufficient funds for medical treatment, highlighting the need for communal support among entertainers. By 1890, the Elks had grown significantly, with 173 lodges across the United States.

Principles and Activities

The Elks uphold four core principles: Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love, and Fidelity. The organization is known for its philanthropic programs, including support for veterans, youth scholarships—such as the "Hoop Shoot" contest—and disaster relief efforts. The Elks also conduct patriotic activities like bond drives and Flag Day observances. Historically, the Elks were exclusive, but they now welcome all U.S. citizens over 21 who affirm a belief in God.

Membership and Structure

Membership in the Elks requires that candidates be U.S. citizens, over 21 years old, believe in God, and possess good character. The organization is independent and neither directly nor indirectly supports groups advocating the overthrow of the U.S. government. The Elks have more than 750,000 members across over 1,900 local lodges nationwide.

Internal Practices and Traditions

Each Elks Lodge is governed by an Exalted Ruler, similar to a Worshipful Master in Masonic lodges. The Elks conduct a nightly "Hour of Recollection" toast to absent members, a tradition initiated by Charles Vivian. Candidates for membership participate in initiation rituals, though these have evolved over time to eliminate certain practices.

Women's Admission

Until 1995, women were not admitted to the Elks. Following changes in the organization's policies, women are now included in the membership.

Improved Benevolent Protective Order of Elks of the World

The Improved Benevolent Protective Order of Elks of the World (IBPOEW), established in 1897, is an African-American fraternal order modeled on the BPOE. It was created in response to the BPOE's historical exclusion of minorities, with the BPOE not opening its membership to African Americans until 1972. The IBPOEW operates independently and has its own chapters and traditions.

Edit Wiki

Founded

1900

Facebook

Web

Sign in to see organisation website

Address

Carlisle

Address: 120 W Ridge St, CarlisleWeb: Sign in to see organisation websiteEmployees: 34Volunteers: 35Revenue: 734466ICO: 230400770

News & Updates XX

From Social media

News about from their social media (Facebook and X).

Collected information

Data about organisation

Carlisle

Organisations from Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks of the USA

1. Rotary International

The Carlisle Sunrise Rotary Club meets every Tuesday morning at 7:00am at the Market Cross Pub in Downtown Carlisle.

2. Trout Unlimited

Our mission is to conserve, protect and restore North America's coldwater fisheries and watersheds.

3. Banner of Truth

Banner of Truth is a Christian publisher of books and a magazine that also organises conferences.

More from Carlisle

Interesting nearby

Interesting organisations close by to residence of Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks of the USA

Carlisle Kiwanis Club Foundation

The Kiwanis Club of Carlisle was organized in 1920 and serves children in the local community.

Pennsylvania District of Kiwanis International

A global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at.

More Interesting nearby
Join us

Join us and make a difference for the future!

Eduo is where compassion meets clarity.

Brooklyn Simmons
Eve

Finally, a platform that brings transparency and accessibility to the nonprofit world. Eduo makes it simple to see who’s doing meaningful work and how to get involved.

Brooklyn Simmons
Michelle

I found my favorite volunteer opportunity thanks to Eduo!

Brooklyn Simmons
Barbara

As a volunteer, I love how Eduo.org empowers people to contribute locally. It feels like Wikipedia for good deeds — written by the people, for the people.

Brooklyn Simmons
Brian

Eduo connects you to causes that actually matter to you.

Brooklyn Simmons
William

Transparent, useful, and beautifully designed.

Brooklyn Simmons
Catherine
Sign Up

Please fill in your information. Everything is free, we might contact you with updates (but cancel any time!)

Sign in with Google
Or
Collected information

Good News

Veronika 2025-10-24

"Great to see Odisha taking strides towards combating human trafficking! The DGP's commitment to dismantle this network is a step forward in protecting vulnerable communities. Together, we can make a difference! 💪❤️ #HumanRights #TogetherAgainstTrafficking"

Odisha aims to become model state in combating human trafficking: DGP Khurania

Social News XYZ

Like Comment
Ray 2025-10-24

Great news! 🌿 The National Biodiversity Authority has allocated Rs 1.36 crore to Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra for biodiversity conservation and sustainable use. This initiative promotes fairness in benefit-sharing and highlights the importance of protecting our natural heritage! 🌍💚 #Biodiversity #Conservation #PositiveImpact

National Biodiversity Authority releases Rs 1.36 crore to UP, Maharashtra

Social News XYZ

Like Comment
Lucy 2025-10-24

The future is here! 🌍🔥 Seneca's firefighting drones are leading the charge in climate adaptation. As we confront rising temperatures and extreme weather, innovation is key to resilience. Let's harness technology for a sustainable future! #ClimateAdaptation #ResilienceEconomy #PositiveChange

Building The Resilience Economy: How Seneca's Firefighting Drones Signal A New Era Of Climate Adaptation

Forbes

Like Comment