Our Mission To instill the principles of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity; to recognize a belief in God; to promote the welfare and enhance the happiness of its Members; to enhance the spirit of American patriotism; to cultivate good fellowship; to perpetuate itself as a fraternal organization, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America will serve the people and communities through benevolent programs, demonstrating that Elks Care and Elks Share. Nationally, we enjoy a membership of nearly one million members and a 142-year history. Our network of 2,000 lodges located throughout America supports a generous charitable foundation that each year gives millions in scholarships, acts as an inspiration to youth, provides care & entertainment to veterans and more. How the Elks Began An Englishman by the name of Charles Algernon Sidney Vivian, arrived in New York in 1867 after a successful theatrical career in London. He wanted to imitate a English fraternity named after the (African) Buffalo, but others wanted an American animal, hence the Elk was selected for its peaceful and protective nature. While in England, Mr. Vivian, had heard the novelist Charles Dickens speak on benevolence. Inspired by Charles Dickens, Charles Vivian included the word “Benevolent” into our title; the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. Since the inception of the Elks in 1868, the organization has grown to nearly 1.0 million men and women. For more details about the rich history of the Elks check out