c mAnuAl - nyselks.org · youth activities committee manual published by grand lodge benevolent and protective order of elks of the united states of america b • p • o • e l

Youth Activities

committee mAnuAl

PUBLISHED BY GRAND LODGEBENEVOLENT AND PROTECTIVE

ORDER OF ELKSOF THE

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

B•P•O•ELKS

FOR

SERV

ICE TO YOUNG A

ME

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A

— TABLE OF CONTENTS —

INTRODUCTORY MESSAGE ................................................................................................ i

PROGRAM SUGGESTIONS .................................................................................................. 1

SPECIFIC YOUTH PROGRAM ACTIVITIES ...................................................................... 2

YOUTH And AMERICA ......................................................................................................... 4

ANTLERS PROGRAM ........................................................................................................... 5

THE DICTIONARY PROJECT .............................................................................................. 6

STUDENT/VETERAN VOLUNTEER PROGRAM ............................................................... 8

“STUDENT OR TEENAGER OF THE MONTH” And “STUDENT OR TEENAGER OF THE YEAR” ..................................................................... 9

ELKS And SCOUTING ........................................................................................................ 11

EAGLE SCOUT RECOGNITION ........................................................................................ 11

GIRL SCOUT RECOGNITION ............................................................................................ 12

MARVIN M. LEWIS AWARD .............................................................................................. 14

ELKS NATIONAL SOCCER SHOOT PROGRAM ............................................................. 15

ELKS NATIONAL “HOOP SHOOT®” FREE-THROW PROGRAM ................................. 16

ELKS DRUG AWARENESS PROGRAM ............................................................................. 17

ELKS NATIONAL FOUNDATION ...................................................................................... 18

SUBORDINATE LODGE CHARITABLE ANNUAL REPORT ........................................... 19

CONTEST PARTICIPATION CERTIFICATE .................................................................... 19

ELKS NATIONAL YOUTH WEEK ...................................................................................... 20

SUBORDINATE LODGE CONTEST FOR BEST YOUTH PROGRAM ............................. 21

STATE ASSOCIATION CONTEST FOR BEST YOUTH PROGRAM ................................ 22

JUNIOR GOLF PROGRAM ................................................................................................. 23

WHEN TO MAIL REPORTS And CONTEST ENTRIES .................................................... 24

CONCLUSION...................................................................................................................... 25

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STATE, DISTRICT AND LODGE

YOUTH ACTIVITIES CHAIRMEN

he suggestions, ideas and instructions in this manual are intended to guide you in the promotion and development of youth activity programs coordinated throughout individual communities, districts and your state, in accord with the guidelines of our Order’s Grand Lodge Youth

Activities Program. By no means are the various activities in this booklet meant to be restrictive, limiting the dedicated Elks in your area to only these ideas. Rather, they cover the basics of Elkdom’s nationwide program to aid in the character development of young people, recognize their many contributions to the functioning of our society, and encourage them in maturing into tomorrow’s citizens and leaders. Lodges that sponsor Youth Activities Programs unique to their Lodge should share them with our Committee so that we might assist other Lodges which may find your program right for their own situation.

The promotion of your activities within your Lodge can become instrumental in promoting your membership. With an active Public Relations Program, your community image will be greatly enhanced by having various youth programs publicized in the local media that could attract new Members from both parents and the entire community. Examples of youth activities to consider can be found on Pages 2 & 3 of this manual.

Please study this manual thoroughly to find the programs that will fit the needs of your Lodge, community and state, and hopefully stimulate thoughts of new avenues in youth “boosting.” An added incentive is provided in the sections describing the various contests and awards available from your Grand Lodge. Pay particular attention to the rules and instructions concerning entry blanks, deadline dates and the limits for size and weight of brochures to ensure that your hardworking committee will receive its deserved recognition for outstanding efforts. Likewise, be sure to maintain records of your youth activities in the Monthly Records Book of Subordinate Lodge Volunteer, Youth, Charitable and Community Service Programs. This will enable your committee to compile this information on Page Two, Side One of the Annual Report and promptly return it to your State Association Youth Activities Chairman no later than May 1st.

Should you have any questions or suggestions regarding programs or contests, don’t hesitate to contact the Grand Lodge Youth Activities Committeeman for your Area as listed in the Grand Lodge Directory. You will find his name, address and telephone number in the Grand Lodge Directory which is revised annually and sent to the Secretary of every Lodge, as well as on the Flyer updated yearly and sent to you for attachment to this manual.

NOTE: Further information may be found on the B.P.O.E. Web site: http://www.elks.org

With your cooperation, the goal of all Elks to provide a wholesome and character-building environment for the boys and girls of every community within our influence, and to assist and safeguard America’s young men and women during their passage into responsible and rewarding adulthood will be assured, and our ORDER’S PROGRAM will be recognized across our Nation as the MOST BENEVOLENT AND PROTECTIVE FRIEND OUR YOUTH COULD HAVE.

Your Grand LodgeYouth Activities Committee

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PROGRAM SUGGESTIONS

1. IT IS TO BE NOTED THAT MOST OF THESE PROGRAMS SHOULD BE CONDUCTED ON A YEAR-ROUND BASIS. The programs should be all-inclusive and should embody recreational, educational and social projects for children of all ages and stations of life. These programs will be judged not only on the number of children reached, which is important, but also on their real beneficial impact and effectiveness on the lives of children participating.

2. THE SUCCESS OF YOUR PROGRAM will depend almost entirely on the selection of the right Committee Members: those who have demonstrated interest in youth and their welfare, who possess warmth, understanding and patience in working with them, and who are in a position to give of their time, talents and resources. Whether long-term or new Elks, the primary candidates would be teachers, athletic coaches, counselors, scouting leaders and any others whose occupational or leisure time activities involve frequent contact with youngsters and clearly show the needed and heartfelt personal commitment which brings results.

3. YOUTH PROGRAM BUDGET: Sufficient funds should be made available to you, to promote and produce a program that will give convincing evidence to your own Lodge Members and to your community, that you are concerned about problems of Youth, and do regard Youth Activities as a major program in your Lodge and State Association. It is to be remembered that whatever your financial ability, the personal interest employed and actual results obtained are even more important than actual money spent. That whatever your financial ability, the personal interest employed and actual results obtained are even more important than actual money spent.

4. CONSULT OTHER AGENCIES, AVOID DUPLICATION: In order to avoid duplication of effort and arrive at programs that will be most effective, it is good business to consult with your schools and with your recreational and child-care agencies. You will find them interested, cooperative and willing to assist you in best approaching existing needs. Juvenile Courts in your area may also be able to direct you into constructive opportunities.

5. SPREAD THE NEWS: The greatest benefits for the young people of your community from your Lodge’s youth activities can only be achieved through publicity in the media. Work hand- in-hand with your Lodge Public Relations Committee and the newspapers, radio and TV stations, including cable networks. Promote events and programs before they come up on the calendar, and let your neighbors know about successful functions after they take place. Remember, even though the primary purpose of Youth Activities is not to “pat ourselves on the back”; in today’s world, one either cultivates a positive image in the mind of the public continuously, or their impression of the Elks will be that of an unknown organization, and their response will be lacking based on this. It’s far easier to have your community thinking of the Elks as “the good guys” all along rather than build such a reputation on a moment’s notice. And if your Lodge repeats the same activity around the same time next year, participation will be even better because of the “bandwagon effect”: Everyone likes to ride with a WINNER!

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SPECIFIC YOUTH PROGRAM ACTIVITIES

Remember, you are at liberty to adopt Youth Programs which best address the needs of the youth in your area. These programs may be designed to fit within your Lodge budget and as your facility allows. Whatever programs you adopt, select activities that spread throughout the year, and be sure to see them through to completion. To really do a constructive job and make a real impact on the Youth of your community, it is well to have continuous month-in and month-out programs. Many of these projects require very little expense, if any, and give opportunity for active participation by your Members. Get as many of your Members as possible into your Youth Program. By so doing, you will have a better Lodge and will build a higher regard and prestige within your community.

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Following is a list of suggested activities which might be incorporated into a meaningful Youth Activity Program for your Lodge:

HONOR OUR FLAG. Flag Day, June 14, should have special meaning for the Youth ofAmerica.TheGrandLodgeYouthActivitiesCommitteeurgeseachSubordinateLodge topromote programs bringing honor and respect to our Flag. Place more emphasis on thepromotionofAmericanismamongourYouth!

InitiateaJuniorGolfPrograminyourLodge.

WheneveryourLodgemarches inaparade, include recentwinners fromanyof thevariousprogramsinthismanualtogivetheyouth,programandyourLodgevaluablerecognition.

Sponsor Junior Athletic Teams, e.g., Little League Baseball, Junior Hockey Teams,SwimmingTeams,TrackTeams,etc.

OrganizeBoysand/orGirlsBands,Orchestras,DrumandBugleCorps,andChoralGroups.

Send Boys and Girls to various types of Boys and Girls State Summer Camps, if such areconductedinyourstate,orifnosuchprogramsexist,arrangeforboysandgirlstotakeoverthelocalcivicofficesforacertainday.

ProvideandsuperviseTeenageDances.

SponsorBoysandGirlsDramaticSocieties,withpublicpresentations.

SponsorLocalUnit,BoysandGirlsClubsofAmerica.

InitiateMartialArtsPrograms.

ProvideRecreationalCampandSummerCamping.

HoldAmateurTalentNightsforBoysandGirlsandawardprizes.

Presentflagstoschoolsandothercommunityinstitutions,withappropriateceremoniesinwhichchildrentakepart.

SponsorBoyandGirlDebatingSocietiesandOratoricalContestswithdebatesandorationsontimelysubjects.

PromoteEssayContests.

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HoldspecialprogramsonMother’sDay,Father’sDay,etc.,withboysandgirlstakinganactivepartinsuchprograms.

SponsorBicycleRegistrationwithSafetyInstructionandRodeo;DriverInstructionPrograms;FirePreventionPrograms;ConservationPrograms,etc.

ProvideSummerCampingforhandicappedchildren.Sponsorsummerhikes,picnics,etc.

Engageinwintersportsandoutings.

Promoteswimmingclassesandcontests.PromoteArtPosterContests.

SupporttheElksDrugAwarenessProgram.

PromotetheElksNationalFoundation“MostValuableStudent,”“TechnicalVocation,”and“EmergencyEducationalFund”Awards.

PublicizeandparticipateintheElksNational“HoopShoot®”Free-ThrowProgram.

PublicizeandparticipateintheElksGrandLodgeYouthActivitiesSoccerShootProgram.

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YOUTH AND AMERICA

Commun�ty Projects1. Youth18yearsofagemustnowassumefull responsibilityascitizensof theUnitedStates

ofAmerica.TheYouthActivitiesCommitteeinSubordinateLodgescancreateanatmospherefor a cooperativeendeavor resulting in theproductionof abookletwhich,whenusedbystudentsinthepublicandprivateschools,wouldincreasetheirappreciationforthelawsofourland.Theformationofastudycommitteewithvolunteersfromschools,parentorganizations,lawenforcementagencies,ProbationDepartments,DistrictAttorney’soffices,JuvenileCourtJudges,BarAssociations,etc.candeterminetheneedinyourcommunityforabookletortextonlocallawsaffectingyouth.SubordinateLodgeprovidefundsforpublicationthroughfund-raisingeventsorbyworkingwithotherorganizationstoprovidefunds.

Suggested steps in pursuing such a project are as follows:

a. Determinetheneedinyourcommunityforabookletortextonlocallawsaffectingyouth.

b. Contactagenciestobecomeinvolved,e.g.,schools,parentorganizations,lawenforcementagencies,probationdepartments,DistrictAttorneys’offices,JuvenileCourtJudges,BarAssociations,etc.

c. Selectvolunteersfromaboveagenciestoformastudycommittee.

d. Determineandselectcontentofhandbookortext,e.g.,lawsaffecting:

Alcoholandliquortraffic Narcoticsanddrugs

Loitering Neglectand/orcrueltytochildren

Employmentofminors Schoolattendance

Entertainment Financialresponsibility

Teenagedances JuvenileCourt

Tobacco Maliciousacts

Vehiclesandbicycles MarriageandParentage

Morals Disturbingordisorderlyconduct

Weapons

e. Determinegrade-leveldistributionoruse.(Quantity needed)

f. SubordinateLodgeprovidesfundsforpublication throughfund-raisingeventsorworkswithotherorganizationstoprovidefunds.

2. AnothersignificantactivityinwhichtoinvolveyouryouthandyourcommunityistheStudent/ Veteran Volunteer Program.

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ANTLERS PROGRAM

TheAntlersProgramhasbeenauthorizedbytheGrandLodgeto,onceagain,becomeaGrandLodgeYouthActivitiesCommitteeProgram.TheAntlerswas initiallyorganizedover70yearsagobyElksLodges acrossournation.Thepurposeof theAntlerswas tohelpLodges in theirservice-orientedprograms,aswellastodevelopthistypeofactivityforyoungstersbetween12and20yearsofageinclusive,toworkontheirown.ItwashopedthattheAntlersProgramwouldalsoencourageitsyoungMemberstobecomeElksMembersuponreachingtheageof21.

WhenWorldWarIIbrokeout,theAntlersProgramwasunabletocontinueitsactivestatus,andwaseventuallyterminatedbytheGrandLodgeintheearly1960's.

Overthepastseveralyears,anumberofLodgesacrossthenationhaveshowninterestinrenewingthisprogramand,bybeginningtheirownAntlersPrograms,wereinstrumentalinconvincingtheGrandLodgeofitsworthiness.ThroughtheeffortsoftheGrandLodgeYouthActivitiesCommitteeoverthelastseveralyears,theRulesandRegulationsandBy-LawsoftheOrganizationwerethensubmitted forGrandLodgeapproval.After some revision, thisprogramwasgivenpreliminaryapproval by the Delegates at the 2002 Reno Convention. The Antlers Program is now a fullyfunctioningprogramoftheYouthActivitiesCommittee.

TheAntlersoftheBenevolentandProtectiveOrderofElkshasadoptedthefollowingelementsasmajorobjectives:

ToquickenthespiritofAmericanPatriotism;

Toteachrespectforparentsandloveofhome;

Toinculcatethefundamentalsofgoodcitizenship;

Toaidinaworthycause;

Toestablishfoundationofcharacter;

TopromotethewelfareandenhancethehappinessofitsMembers;and

That torespect theconvictionsofothersinmatterofworshipandreligionis true“Americanism.”

TheAntlersProgramisaprojectwecanallsupport.Itcaninvolvepublicrelations,Lodgeactivities,Membership,Americanism,RitualandYouthActivitiesCommitteesinourlocalLodgesandcommunities.

Formoreinformation,pleasecontacttheGrandLodgeYouthActivitiesCommitteeMemberinchargeoftheAntlersProgramforyourArea.

Let’s all work together to help get this program going!

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THE DICTIONARY PROJECT

TheDictionaryProjectwasfoundedin1995byMrs.MaryFrenchofCharleston,SC.Thesolemissionofthisnonprofitorganization—whichwe,asElks,share—istodistributedictionariesto as many 3rd graders as possible in the 50 United States and our environs. In 1999, 10,295dictionariesweredistributed.Varyingserviceclubswerethemainthrustofsponsorship.Inthe2004-2005Lodgeyear,theBenevolentandProtectiveOrderofElksbecameinvolved.DictionarieshavebeendistributedineveryStateoftheUnion,PuertoRicoandtheVirginIslands.Atotalof830,333dictionarieswereputinthehandsof3rdgradersinourCountry,andthismakesagrandtotalof1.8milliondistributedtodate.

TheDictionaryProgramisawonderfulcommunityserviceproject.ConsiderthesemotivationsforyourLodgetobecomeinvolved:It is:

Awonderfulliteracyproject;

Anopportunitytobeinvolvedinahands-onprojectthatdoesnotrequireagreatdealoftime;

Relativelyinexpensive;

Anopenerofdoorsintotheschoolsofyourcommunity,pavingthewayforotheryouthprojects—scholarships,essaycontests,sponsorshipofscouting,anAntlersProgram,etc.;

Lendsitselftomediacoverage,toletthecommunityknowofthegoodworksyoudo,ofyourconcernforourNation’syoungpeople.

HOW DO WE BEGIN?OnceyouhavedecidedtoparticipateintheDictionaryProject,determinethefundsneededto

sponsortheproject,anddecidehowmanydictionariesyoucanpresentwithinyourbudget.

WHERE CAN I GO FOR HELP?You can contact your GLYAC representative for the Project — he/she can get the

necessaryinformationandformstoyou.Also,youcane-mailtheDictionaryProjectsourcedirectly at www.dictionaryproject.org. This is the project’s web site and here you mayreviewthedifferentdictionariesavailable.Youmayalsoordersamplecopiesbycallingarea843-856-2706atacostof$10.00.

WHAT COMES NEXT?Step One:Contactyourlocalschoolprincipal(s)/administration(s)toexplaintheProject.Fromthem(after permission to continue the Project is granted)obtainthetotalnumberof3rdgradersto be involved. Many communities contain Parochial Schools, private schools and ChristianAcademiesinadditiontothepublicschools.Byinvolvingtheseschools,youfurtherourmissiontopresentadictionarytoevery3rdgraderinourcountry.

Step Two:ManyLodgeschoosetopersonalizethedictionarieswithlabelsfornames—andanElkslogoaccompanyingthenameandnumberofyourLodge.

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Step Three: Points to make during your brief visit:Introduce yourself and make a brief presentation so the students know the dictionaries are

beingpresentedbyyourLodgeasapersonalgift.Ifyoudonotpersonalizethedictionarieswithnamelabels,havethemwritetheirnamesandaddressesinsidethefrontcoveratthattime.

Some dictionary editions, e.g., A STUDENT DICTIONARY, contain much valuableinformationthatyoucanpointouttothestudentsfortheiruse.Thisonecontains,inadditiontothedictionary,forexample,aTableofWeightsandMeasures,theDeclarationofIndependence,theConstitution,MapsoftheSevenContinents,informationonthe50states,biographiesofthe43USPresidents,factsaboutthesolarsystemaswellasseveralotherfactualsections.

Inclosing,encouragethedailyuseofthedictionary.

Yourvisit should last 10-15minutes—3rdgrade attention spans fallwithin this lengthoftime.

Step Four:Utilizemediacoverage,itisagreatProjectandmediacooperationshouldbeeasilyobtained.

INFORMATION AND SUGGESTIONSDistribution:selectadistributiondatethatcanbetiedtoanimportantliteraryevent—e.g.,

theweekofOctober16–NoahWebster’sbirthday.

Besuretoorderenoughdictionariestobeabletopresentonetoeachclassroomteacher.Also,toappearontheagendaatthelocalBoardofEducationmeetingwithadictionaryforeachBoardMemberandAdministratorpresentisinvaluable“PR.”

Haveafewextradictionarieswithyouincasenewstudentshaveenrolled.

Adictionaryisperhapsthefirstandmostpowerfulreferencetoolthatachildcouldown.Itsusefulnessgoesbeyondthespelling,pronunciationanddefinitionsitlists;itisacompanionforsolvingproblemsthatariseasachilddevelopshisorherreading,writingandcreativethinkingabilities.Studentsbenefit froman increase in self-reliance and resourcefulness inspiredby themaxim“lookitup.”

Most schools today have to struggle with rising day-to-day operating costs and are notfinanciallyabletoprovidedictionariestoindividualstudents.Theschoolsappreciateourhelp.

WehopeeveryElksLodgeinAmericaandourenvironswillhelpinthisunitedeffort,provingonceagainthat CARE — SHARE!

For order forms and pricing information, please contact the Grand Lodge Youth ActivitiesCommitteeMemberinchargeoftheDictionaryProgramforyourArea.

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STUDENT/VETERAN VOLUNTEER PROGRAM

With thedecentralizationofveteranshealthcareand thedecrease inhousingofveteransatVAMCs,themethodsofcareweextendtothesedeservingindividualsisfastbecomingobsolete.Thedaysoficecreamsocialsandbingosarejustaboutover.

ThechallengefacingtheElksNationalVeteransServiceCommissionandourvolunteersis:“How do we continue serving our nation’s veterans?”

OnewaythatwecancontinuetoenhancethelevelofcomfortfortheailingveteransofourArmedForcesistoinvolveouryouth.Foryears,theOrderofElkshasrunprogramsforouryouth:ENFMostValuableStudentScholarship—VocationalGrants—EmergencyGrantsforChildrenofDeceasedElks—EagleScoutScholarships—GirlScoutScholarships—HoopShoot®—SoccerShoot.Wehavealwaysgiventoouryouth,neverexpectinganythinginreturn.

Nowisthetimetoinvolveouryouth—toaskthemtogivesomethingbacktothecommunity.Thischallengeisnotasdifficulttoachieveasonemightthink.

One of the results of the Presidential Summit held in Philadelphia in Spring 1997 was thatstudentsenteringhighschoolinFall1998wouldbeexpectedtobecomeinvolvedincommunityservice.Thesestudentswouldberequiredtohaveaspecificamountofhoursofcommunityservicebeforebeingallowedtograduatewiththeirclass.

AsElks,wenowhavethechancetoestablishaprogramforouryouthwithanewtwist.Insteadofgivingsomethingtothem,wearegoingtoaskthemtogivesomethingbacktothecommunityby working with and for those who helped secure the comforts they enjoy today, our nation’sveterans.

The Elks National Veterans Service Commission and the Grand Lodge Youth ActivitiesCommitteehas formedapartnership in thisendeavorandaddedanew,gloriouschapter to thehistoryofElkdom.Wejustmightinstillintheseyoungmenandwomenthespiritofvolunteerismthatwegrewupwith.WemightevensowtheseedsthatwillencouragethemtojointheElkswhentheyturntwenty-one.

Thisprogramwill involveLodgeVeteransServiceandYouthActivitiesChairmen;DistrictVeterans Service and Youth Activities Chairmen; Veterans Administration Voluntary Service(VAVS)RepresentativesandVAVSDeputyRepresentatives,aswellastheElksNationalVeteransServiceCommissionandtheGrandLodgeYouthActivitiesCommittee.

Weneedeveryoneworkingtogetherharmoniouslyateverylevel:Local—District—State—National.Ifeveryoneiswillingtochecktheiregosatthedoorandworkwithafocustoserveourveteransandmaketheirlotinlifealittlebetter,thisprogramwillbesuccessful.

For more information, contact: Michael F. Manning, National Director

Elks National Veterans Service Commission 2750 N. Lakeview Avenue • Chicago, IL 60614-1889

PHONE: (773) 755-4736 FAX: (773) 755-4737E-MAIL: [email protected]

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“STUDENT OR TEENAGER OF THE MONTH” AND “STUDENT OR TEENAGER OF THE YEAR”

Thisprogramisdesignedtorecognizeoutstandingyoungmenandwomenfortheirachievementsinschoolandcommunitylife.Teenagersmakewonderfulcontributionstoallareasofendeavor,fromagriculturetozoology.Theyexcelinscholarship,citizenship,performingarts,finearts,hobbies,athletics,club,schoolandcommunityservice,industryandfarming.Theiraccomplishments,theiractivitiesandtheircontributionstosocietymayberecognizedandpraised.

OurSubordinateLodgesshouldseekoutaTeenageorStudentBoyandaTeenageorStudentGirleachmonthandpubliclyrewardthemfortheiraccomplishments.Toward the end of the year, a “Student or Teenager Of The Year” should be selected from those who have been named “Student or Teenager Of The Month.” All the monthly winners and their parents should be guests of the Lodge at a dinner at which the “Student or Teenager Of The Year” is announced. Business, school and governmental leaders should be invited, as well as members of the news media. Similar awards may be made for the younger teens of middle school age for the Junior Student/Teenager Boys and Girls.

Yourwholeheartedeffortstowardsmakingthisprogramasuccesswillreapuntolddividendsforyourcommunity,ournationandtheOrderofElks.

SUGGESTIONS ON HOW TO IMPLEMENT THE PROGRAMThemethodofselectingthe“StudentorTeenagerOfTheMonth/Year”istheresponsibilityof

theSubordinateLodgeYouthActivitiesCommittee.

Withthecooperationofschoolauthorities,astudentnominatingcommitteecouldbenamed.Thiscommitteewouldberesponsibleforscreening“StudentorTeenagerOfTheMonth”nomineesinaschool.IfmorethanoneschoolexistsintheareaservedbyalocalLodge,anareacommitteewouldhavetobeappointedtofurtherscreenthenominees.Ontheotherhand,itmightbedesirabletonamea“StudentorTeenagerOfTheMonth”fromeachschoolwithinthejurisdictionofeachLodge,thuseliminatinganareacommittee.Or,theYouthActivitiesCommitteeofthelocalLodgecouldmaketheselection.Linesofcommunicationwithschoolsandotheragencieswouldhavetobeestablished,probablythroughpersonalcontact.Schoolandcommunitypublicationscouldhelpcommitteemembersinmakingnominations.

Theimportantpointtorememberisthattheunderlyingpurposeoftheprogramistoseekoutyouth whose accomplishments deserve public recognition. To accomplish this, the nominatingprocessmaybemodifiedtoaccommodateconditionsastheyexistinyourcommunity

TheGrandLodgeYouthActivitiesCommitteewillmailcertificates,guidelines,nominationforms,postersandnewsreleasestoallStateChairmen.AdditionalsuppliesandcertificatescanbesecuredthroughtheGrandLodgeCommitteemaninchargeofthe“StudentorTeenagerOfTheMonth/YearProgram.”

Certificatesdenotingthe“StudentorTeenagerOfTheMonth”andthe“StudentorTeenagerOfTheYear” aswell as Jr.TeenagerCertificateswill be furnishedby theGrandLodge to allStateChairmen.OrderadditionalsuppliesfromtheGrandLodgeCommitteemaninchargeoftheprogram.

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STUDENT OF THE MONTH

STUDENT OF THE YEAR

TEENAGER OF THE MONTH

JUNIOR STUDENT OF THE MONTH

JUNIOR TEEN OF THE YEAR

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SUPPORT YOUTH ORGANIZATIONS

WestressandurgeyouractiveparticipationandcooperationwithsuchorganizationsastheBoyandGirlScoutsPrograms,BoysandGirlsClubsofAmerica,CampfireGirlsandtheBigBrothermovement.OurOrderhasalwaysmadeacreditableshowingintheseareasofactivity.Weshouldreviewandexpandoureffortsandcooperatewiththeseveryeffectivenationalorganizationsandtheirlocalcouncils,asapartofouroverallYouthProgram,anddoallwecantoadvancetheaimsandidealsoftheseprovenandhighlyregardedandimportantyouthmovements.

ELKS AND SCOUTING

OurGrandExaltedRulerhasrequestedthatstrongemphasisbeplacedontheScoutingProgrambytheYouthActivitiesCommitteeinyourLodge—urgingallLodgeandStateActivitiesChairmento accept the leadership role this program demands. In this booklet we have included samplecertificates,issuedbytheGrandLodgeYouthActivitiesCommittee.IfyourLodgeisnotamongthosewhichsupportScouting,youshouldconsultwithyourlocalScoutexecutivesimmediately.

AllLodgesareencouragedtosupportscoutingforthehandicapped.Thisshouldbeeitherthroughatroopfortheseboysandgirlsorbymainstreamingthemintocurrentlyexistingprograms.BecauseElksbelieveinprovidingopportunitiesforall,aprogramsetupforthephysicallyandmentallyhandicappedwouldgoalongwaytowardsdevelopingtheself-esteemoftheseyoungpeople.

For several decades, the Boy Scout Program has been successfully used by Elkdom as aneffectivemethodofpreparingboystobecomegoodcitizens.InvolvementinScoutinghastakenthefollowingforms:

Unit operation — a Lodge provides leadership, a place to meet, and programsupervisionforoneormoreScoutunits.TheseunitsillustrateElks’concernforyoutheveryweekoftheyear.

IndividualElksserveasadministrativeleadersinlocalBoyScoutcouncilsanddistricts.

ElkswithawiderangeofbusinessandprofessionalskillsandtalentshaveaidedinenlargingandenrichinglocalScoutingPrograms.

ManyElksLodgesformallyrecognizetheAmericanismtrainingofEagleScoutsbythepresentationofacertificateandanAmericanFlag.

ElkshavebeenintheforefrontofeffortstomeetboththeoperatingandcapitalfundingneedsoflocalScouting.

RecipientsoftheBoyScoutEagleAward,GirlScoutSilverandGirlScoutGoldAwardwillreceiveaLetterofCongratulationsfromtheGrandExaltedRuler.

ForadditionalScoutinginformationandcontacts,gototheElks&ScoutingWebSite:elks.org/scouting.

EAGLE SCOUT RECOGNITION MAKE THIS AN ALL-YEAR PROGRAM

Thisprogramdoestwothings:itrecognizesthefineyoungmenwhohavereachedtheoutstandingrank of EAGLE, and it gives your Lodge an excellent opportunity to improve the IMAGE OFELKDOMinyourcommunity.Allnewsmedia,theScoutorganization,andothergroupswillbeanxioustojoinwithyouinthisrecognitionofthefutureleadersofourcountry.

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LocalSCOUTEXECUTIVEShavethenamesofEagleScoutsandtheyareanxioustoassistinthisprogram.Itisaprogrameasytoimplement,withverygratifyingresults.ScoutsholdanEagleScoutCourtofHonortorecognizethosewhoattaintherankofEagle.ThisshouldbestrictlyaScoutfunction,andnotinfringeduponbyElks,excepttobeinattendance.ElksshouldholdtheirownEagleScoutRecognitionaffair.TheAwardsshouldbestrictlyFlagsandCertificates,notanytypeofmedalsorpinswhichdetractfromtheEagleMedalandBadgepresentedbytheScouts.

For more information, contact: Boy Scouts of America

P.O. Box 152079 • Irving, TX 75015-2079 PHONE: 1-800-323-0732

GIRL SCOUT RECOGNITION MAKE THIS AN ALL-YEAR PROGRAM

This is another Grand Lodge All-Year Program. Each Subordinate Lodge is urged to adoptthisactivitybycontactingyour localGirlScoutCouncilandworkingwiththemtohonortheseoutstandingyoungAmericans.TheProgramiseasytoimplement,withgratifyingresults,bothtoGirlScoutsandElks.

TheGirlScoutGoldisthehighestachievementinGirlScouting(similar to Boy Scout’s Eagle Scout Award).AGirlScoutmustbeatleast14yearsoldoraSeniorGirlScoutandhavesuccessfullycompleteddemandingprerequisitestoworktowardherGoldAward.Aperiodofonetotwoyearsisneededtocompletetheprogram.YoumayalsoawardtheGirlScoutSilverAward.TheGirlScoutmusthavecompletedalloftheprerequisitesassetforthbyGirlScoutingtoreceivethisaward.LocalScoutexecutiveswillassistyouinfindingqualifyingrecipientsinyourcommunity.

TwobeautifulcertificateshavebeenpreparedforuseintheElksProgram.ThesecertificatesareavailablefromtheGrandSecretaryortheGrandLodgeCommitteemaninchargeoftheprogram.

Presented to

___________________________Eagle Scout

OF

TROOP NO.______________

______________________________________________________________ LODGE NO._______________ OF

the Benevolent and Protective Order of ElksA FRATERNAL ORGANIZATION

TAKES PRIDE IN PRESENTING TO YOU AN AMERICAN FLAG BECAUSE YOU HAVE DEMONSTRATED THAT YOU DAILY PRACTICE THE TEACHINGS OF DEMOCRACY. WE ARE PROUD TO CALL YOU OUR FELLOW CITIZEN BECAUSE YOU HAVE WORKED HARD TO PROVE THAT YOU BELIEVE IN THE UNITED STATES AS ONE NATION UNDER GOD, WITH LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL. AS THE RED, WHITE AND BLUE COLORS ON THE CLOTH BLEND TO MAKE A BEAUTIFUL FLAG SO THE SKILLS YOU MASTERED HAVE BLENDED TOGETHER TO MAKE YOU AN OUTSTANDING CITIZEN.

DATE ________________________________ PLACE _______________________________

_____________________________________ _____________________________________ Exalted Ruler Chairman

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ElksshouldholdtheGoldandSilverAwardRecognitionAffairstorecognizetheseoutstandingyoungAmericanwomen.Byhonoring the future leadersofour country,Elkswill increase theRespectofyourcommunitiesandimprovetheImageofElkdom.

Certificates for the Eagle Scout, Girl Scout Silver & Girl Scout Gold Programs have beenpreparedforuseinthisprogramfreeofcharge.CertificatesareavailablefromtheGrandLodgeCommitteeman in charge of the program as listed in the supplement to the Youth ActivitiesCommitteeManual.

(It is suggested that the same miniature American Flag used in the Lodge Initiation Ritual be presented to the Eagle Scout or Girl Scout receiving the Award. Many Lodges arrange to have either the Certificate alone or both the Certificate and Flag mounted on a plaque or framed to preserve these cherished mementos for the outstanding young man or young woman who merits this distinguished award.)

Benevolent and Protective Order of ElksHONORS

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

OF TROOP NO.___________________________

FOR HER ACHIEVEMENT IN EARNING THE

Girl Scout Silver Award____________________________________________________________________ LODGE NO.______________

Benevolent and Protective Order of ElksHONORS

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

OF TROOP NO._____________________________

FOR HER ACHIEVEMENT IN EARNING THE

Girl Scout Gold Award____________________________________________________________________ LODGE NO._____________

TAKES PRIDE IN PRESENTING TO YOU AN AMERICAN FLAG BECAUSE YOU HAVE DEMONSTRATED THAT YOU DAILY PRACTICE THE TEACHINGS OF DEMOCRACY. WE ARE PROUD TO CALL YOU OUR FELLOW CITIZEN BECAUSE YOU HAVE WORKED HARD TO PROVE THAT YOU BELIEVE IN THE UNITED STATES AS ONE NATION UNDER GOD, WITH LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL. AS THE RED, WHITE AND BLUE COLORS ON THE CLOTH BLEND TO MAKE A BEAUTIFUL FLAG SO THE SKILLS YOU MASTERED HAVE BLENDED TOGETHER TO MAKE YOU AN OUTSTANDING CITIZEN.

DATE ________________________________________ PLACE _____________________________________

_________________________________________________ ______________________________________________ ExALTED RULER CHAIRMAN

For more information, contact: Girl Scouts of the USA

420 Fifth Avenue • New York, New York 10018-2798 PHONE: (212) 852-8008 • FAX: (212) 852-6515

E-MAIL: www.girlscouts.org

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MARVIN M. LEWIS AWARD

The S�gn�f�cance of the Marv�n M. Lew�s Award

InrecognitionofElkscontributionstoAmerica’sfuture,theBoyScoutsofAmericaestablishedtheMarvinM.LewisAward.ItrecognizesElksingoodstandingwhohavecontributedsignificantlytotheyouthoftheircommunitiesbyvolunteeringintheprogramsoftheBoyScoutsofAmerica.The award is named for the Honorable Marvin M. Lewis, PGER, one of Elkdom’s strongestproponentsofScoutingovertheyears.

Approved by the Grand Lodge and introduced in 1998, the Marvin M. Lewis Awardincludes:

Onemedalandribbon,boxed

Oneframedcertificate

Onelapelpin

Onesquareknot

Appl�cat�ons and Select�on for the Marv�n M. Lew�s Award

Marvin M. Lewis Awards will be presented annually at the Grand Lodge Convention only.WinningapplicantswillbenotifiedbymailinampletimepriortotheGrandLodgeConvention.Inaddition,aftertheGrandLodgepresentation,alocalpresentationcanbemadeataneventsuchasBSAlocalcouncilordistrictfunction,oralocalLodgeawardsdinner.

Each local Lodge may nominate one candidate to be considered for this award. A GrandLodgeSelectionCommitteewillreviewthecandidatesandchoosefourwinners.ThedecisionoftheSelectionCommitteewillbefinal.ApplicationsmaybeobtainedfromtheYouthActivitiesCommitteeMemberonScoutingfortheyearsubmittedorbygoingtotheElks&ScoutingWebSite(elks.org/scouting)todownloadacurrentMarvinM.Lewisapplication.ApplicationsareduebyMarch1.

Procedure for Select�ng a Cand�date for the Marv�n M. Lew�s Award

TheGrandLodgeinvitesall localLodgestosubmitonecandidatefor theMarvinM.LewisAward.Candidatesmusthavetheir localLodgerecommendationtobeeligible.Whenselectingtheircandidate,LodgesshouldconsiderElkswho:

A. HavebroughtScoutingtomoreyouth.

B. HaveassistedlocalElksLodgesinformingScoutingunits.

C. ArefullytrainedintheskillsofScoutingandareoutstandingrolemodels.

D. Havecontributedsignificantly toElksandScoutingbybringingthe twomovementstogethertoservethecommunity.

E. HaveofferedScoutingtoallyouthregardlessofrace,creed,orincomelevel,andhavebeeninstrumentalinorganizingScoutingunits,especiallyininner-cityorotherlow-incomecommunities.

NOTE: Work accomplishments and dedication, rather than a specific number of years inScouting,shouldbethecriteriabywhichcandidatesareselected.

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INTRODUCING…

OUR NEWEST YOUTH SPORTS PROGRAM

Presented by your Youth Activities Committee of the Grand Lodge

ELKS SOCCER SHOOT ® PROGRAM

The Elks Soccer Shoot Program is one of the more popular programs we conduct in ourorganization.Soccer,asmanyofushaveseenthroughoutourcommunities,isthefastestgrowingsportintheUnitedStatestoday.SoccerisonesportwhichallowsALLyouthtoparticipate.FromToddlerstoTeens,inourlargeurbancenterstooursmallsuburbansettings,soccerisbecomingthesportofchoiceforouryouth.

AsElks,wehaveaperfectopportunitytointeractwithouryouthinthisnewexcitingbeginning.By coordinating our programs on the local, district and state levels, we can promote this newprogramandassuredlyreceiveresoundingsuccess.Aswithour“HoopShoot®”Program,planning–organizationandexecutionoftheprogrammustbeachievedinordertoobtainthehighestlevelsofparticipationofouryoungpeople.

Therefore,wemustpromoteourprogramonvariouslevels.Itwillneedthesupportofyourlocalmedia–newspapers,radio,etc.,yourschoolsystems,parents,coachesandmostofalltheyouthinyourcommunities.

ItisimportantthattherebeappointedSoccerShootCommitteesatalllevels,Memberswhoare interested in promoting the sport of soccer, promoting our organization and promoting ouryouth.Onalllevels—local,DistrictandState,committeesutilizingthosewhohaveparticipatedinthissportarevital.Also,trytoincorporatecoachesorphysicaleducationpersonnelintoyourcommittee.Utilizepeoplethatkidsknowandcanrelateto.

MostofthecurrentSoccerShootProgramsarecurrentlyruninthelatesummerandintothefall.EveryExaltedRulershouldappointhisSoccerShootChairmanatthebeginningofeachnewLodgeyear.Theappointee’snamealongwithaddress,zipcodeandtelephonenumbershouldbesubmittedtoyourDistrictandStateChairmaninorderforyourlocalLodgetoreceiveprograminformationneededtorunthecompleteprogram.

Additionalinformationregardinggoalconstruction,contestrules,andotherrelevantideasfortheimplementationofthisinnovativeprogramareavailablethroughyourStateAssociationSoccerChairmanorGrandLodgeYouthActivitiesCommittee.

Make Soccer Your Goal!

For more information, contact: Your State Association Soccer Chairman or

G/L Youth Activities Committee Member for your Area

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ELKS NATIONAL

“HOOP SHOOT®”

FREE-THROW PROGRAM

The Elks National “Hoop Shoot®” Free-ThrowProgramisagoldenopportunity,ifproperlyandwiselyconductedonalocal,district,stateandnationallevel,tobringmuchcredittoourOrder.Conversely,ifwedroptheballbypoorpromotion,planning,organization

andexecutionofthecontestonanylevel,theadverseresultswillbedisastrousforusandwewillhavelosttheopportunitytoperformtheserviceforyoungpeopleweenvision.TheElks“HoopShoot®”Free-ThrowProgram is the largest andmost excitingof theElksyouthundertakings.Interestinbasketball,bytheboysandgirlsthroughoutourcountry,isgrowinginpopularityatanunexcelledrateattheelementary,juniorhigh,highschool,collegeandprofessionallevels.

However,theElksNational“HoopShoot®”Free-ThrowProgramwillnotworkbyitself.Morethanmostprograms,itrequiresasubstantialpublicityandpromotionalcampaigntobesuccessful.Butmostofall,itrequiresadiligentorganizationaleffortonalocallevel.

It isvital thatyougetthewordoutabouttheprogramtonewspapers,radio,toothermedia,totheschoolsandmostimportantly,totheyoungsterswhocanparticipate.Mostyouth-orientedgroupsaremorethanwillingtohelp.Usethemanduseyourimaginationandyouwillhaveatrulyfineprogram.

Thebookletincludedinthe“HoopShoot®”packetwillsetforththerulesthatmustbefollowedandideasthatwehopewillbeofvalueinhelpingyoutoamostsuccessfulprogram.Sincerelybelievingthatwecanalldoabetterjob,andthattheaccomplishmentofthisisworthwhileandrewarding,thefollowingprogramisofferedasachallengetoallElks.

Itisimportantthattherebeappointedtothe“HoopShoot®”Committeesonalllevels,MemberswhoareinterestedinpromotingthismostimportantfunctionoftheGrandLodge.Onlocal,districtandstatecommittees,emphasisshouldbeplacedontheappointmentofthosetrainedinconductingsuchathleticcontests.SpecialconsiderationshouldbegiventoappointingMemberswhoareinthefieldsofcoachingorphysicaleducation.

EveryExaltedRulershouldmakehisappointmentofhis“HoopShoot®”DirectornolaterthanthefirstmeetinginAprilandnotifytheNationalDirectoroftheappointmentalongwithaddress,zip code and telephone number. This will enable the National Director to get information andsuppliesdirectlyintothehandsoftheSubordinateLodge“HoopShoot®”Director.

Distributionofthe“HoopShoot®”packetstotheSubordinateLodgeswillbehandledbytheDistrictDeputyathisAugustClinic.ItisrecommendedthattheSubordinateLodge“HoopShoot®”Directorattendthisclinic.

SuppliesandmaterialsfortheDistrict,StateandRegional“HoopShoot®”DirectorswillbehandledthroughtheofficeoftheNationalDirector.

Additional supplies and material may be obtained by contacting: Cam Cronk, National Director

“Hoop Shoot®” Free-Throw Program P.O. Box 80906 • Billings, MT 59108


ALTHOUGH NOT UNDER CONTROL OF THE GRAND LODGE YOUTH ACTIVITIES COMMITTEE, THIS PROGRAM DEFINITELY SHOULD BE AMONG THE ACTIVITIES CONDUCTED BY YOUR LODGE FOR THE YOUNG PEOPLE IN YOUR COMMUNITY.

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THE KEY TO DRUG-FREE CHILDREN...

ELKS DRUG AWARENESS PROGRAM

Theabuseofdrugsposestoday’sgreatestthreattoourcountry’smostpreciousresource:itsyouth!Drugabuse destroys the potential of tomorrow’s leadersbeforeitcandevelop.

TheGrandLodgeDrugAwarenessProgramcalls

for each Lodge to conduct its own program with training, guidance and materials providedthroughassignedStateAssociationChairmenanddirectedbyLodgeDrugAwarenessChairmen.

Theprogramisdesignedtostopdrugabusebeforeitstarts.Thetargetisyouthinthefourththrough ninth grades whose attitudes and behavior can still be influenced. The objective is toincrease theirawareness throughdedicationof theadverseconsequencesofdrugabuse,so thattheydecideforthemselvestoavoiddrugs.

OurprogramiscommunicatingAwareness;tomakeeveryElkawareofthedrugproblem;toalerteachparenttothedrugproblem;andtoassisteachteacherindealingwiththedrugproblemintheclassroom.

Ourdirectionistwo-fold.First,tosupportfullyanyprogramtocombatdrugsthatmayalreadyexist in thecommunityand todirectourefforts towardPrevention—Education.Second, ifnodrugprogramexists in thecommunity, theneachLodge isurged tohelp thecommunity in theestablishmentofasuccessfulDrugAwarenessEducationProgramthroughtheutilizationofthestep-by-stepguidelinesprovidedintheGrandLodgeDrugAwarenessManual.

ThegoaloftheGrandLodgeDrugAwarenessProgramisPREVENTION:tostopdrugabusebeforeitstarts.Thetargetdrugsuponwhichwewillplaceouremphasisaremarijuana,tobacco,cocaine,LSD,inhalants,steroidsandalcohol;drugsveryeasilyobtainedbyourschoolchildren.

TheDrugAwarenessManualhasbeenpreparedtoprovideageneralbackgroundonthedrugproblemamongtheyouthofourcountry;todescribeindetailhoweveryLodgecanconductaneffectiveDrugAwarenessEducationProgram;toserveasavaluablereferencefortheLodgeDrugAwarenessChairman;tolistsourcesforadditionalinformationandmaterialswhichareavailable.ThehandbookwillhelptheLodgeChairmantounderstandthemarijuana,cocaine,steroidsandalcoholproblem,findtheexpertsineachcommunity,andsuggesthowtocreateopportunitiesforthemtoreachthetargetaudiences—schoolchildren,theirparentsandtheirteachers.

WeurgeeveryElktogivethisimportantprogramwholeheartedendorsementandsupport.Through this program, each Lodge can effectively fight one of America’s leading socialproblems…DRUG ABUSE!

For additional information, contact your State DAP Chairman or:Kent D. Gade, National Director F. Douglas Mattenlee, Assistant National DirectorDRUG AWARENESS PROGRAM DRUG AWARENESS PROGRAM67597–550th Street • Griswold, IA 51535-6005 1267 Greenview Drive • Camdenton, MO 65020-4324PHONE: (712) 778-2159 PHONE/FAX: (573) 873-3487 FAX: (712) 778-2687 E-MAIL: [email protected]: [email protected]


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ELKS NATIONAL FOUNDATION

WhiletheElksNationalFoundationProgramsarein no way under the control of the Youth ActivitiesCommittee,theydoreachouttotheyouthofourNationand,therefore,MembersinvolvedinYouthActivitiesatSubordinateLodge,District,StateAssociationand

GrandLodgelevelsareoftenquestionedaboutthoseprograms.

Withthisinmind,weofferthefollowinginformationsothatsomedirectionmaybegiventothosewhohavequestions.

“Most Valuable Student” Awards: Any student in the graduating class of a high school, orits related equivalent, a citizen of the United States, in the upper range of marks and who hasfinancialneed,iseligibletoapply.Thereare500awardswhicharewoninnationalcompetition.Applications should be available in the Lodges by November and the Lodges are requested todisbursethemtoboththepublicandprivateschoolsintheirarea.AdditionalapplicationsmustberequestedthroughtheStateAssociationScholarshipCommittee.Aftercompletionbythestudentand parent(s), the application must be filed in mid-January (actual filing date is shown on the application),withtheElksLodgeinthejurisdictionofthestudent’sresidence,forendorsementandjudgingbytheLodge.

Inaddition,theElksNationalFoundationsponsorsmanyotherphilanthropicprogramswhichareyouth-related.

For additional information, contact: James W. O’Kelley, Director

ELKS NATIONAL FOUNDATION 2750 N. Lakeview Avenue • Chicago, Illinois 60614-1889



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SUBORDINATE LODGE CHARITABLE ANNUAL REPORT

Following the end of the Lodge’s fiscal year, every Subordinate Lodge must forward the ORIGINAL Annual Report (Page Two) form to the Office of the Grand Secretary, COPIES to the PGER Sponsor, State Government Relations Chairman, and copies to the State Youth Activities Committee Chairman and the State Secretary. The Youth Activities section of this report should be completed from the statistics in the Charity Records Booklet that the Lodge has been keeping all year, and returned by May 1st to the Grand Secretary.

CERTIFICATES OF PARTICIPATION

EveryentranttooneoftheGrandLodgeYouthActivitiesCommittee’sContestswillreceivean attractive Participation Certificate which can be proudly displayed as an indicator of yourMembers’dedicationtoyoungAmerica.

Youth Activities Participation CertificatePresented to

.............................................................. For..............................................................By

Dwayne E. Rumney, Grand Exalted RulerThiscertificatehasbeenawardedinspecialrecognitionofparticipation

intheGrandLodgeYouthActivitiesProgramdesignedtopreservethe“AmericanYouth,”ournation’smostvaluableasset.

Grand LodGe youth activities committee

_____________________________________________ ________________________________________ GRANDEXALTEDRULER COMMITTEECHAIRMAN

BENEVOLENT AND PROTECTIVE ORDER OF ELKS OF U.S.A.

CONTRIBUTIONS(DOLLARS ONLY)—INVOLVEMENT—

YOUTHPROGRAMS

SURVEYOFVOLUNTEER,YOUTH,CHARITABLEANDCOMMUNITYSERVICEPROGRAMS

HEAD COUNTOF ELKS HELPERS ELKS HELPERS NON-CASH PARTICIPANTS #ELKS #HELPERS HRS. HRS. MILES MILES (EST.VALUE) —CASH— (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) (J)

ANNUAL REPORT (Page Two - Side One)To the Grand Lodge, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America

ORIGINAL TO GRAND SECRETARY • COPIES TO: PGER SPONSOR(S); STATE GOVERNMENT RELATIONS CHAIRMAN

FOR THE YEAR ENDING MARCH 31, 200__(Compile from statistics maintained in

Lodge Copy of Charity Records Booklet)

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YOUTH ACTIVITY PROGRAMS INVOLVING CONTESTS

TheProgramsdescribedbelowaredesignedasameaningfulcomponentofyourLodge’syouthactivities.Althoughsubmissionofbrochuresforthesecontestsisoptional,youareencouragedtoparticipateandcompeteinoneormoreofthefollowing:

ELKS NATIONAL YOUTH WEEKConducted the �st week �n May, each year

Asanotherpartofthisprogram,ourGrandExaltedRulerrequestsallSubordinateLodgesintheOrder,setasidethe1stweekinMay{1-7},dedicatedtotheYouthofthecountry,andplanspecialceremonies,celebrationsandevents thatwillbeattractive, interestingandbeneficial toourboysandgirls.

Specialplanningisnecessaryfor thisprogramsinceitoccurssosoonafter theelectionandinstallationofnewLodgeOfficersandCommitteemen.Tobeconductedproperly,thesameYouthActivitiesCommitteemanshouldberetainedfromyear-to-yearifheisperformingsatisfactorily,andinhishandstheplanningcansuccessfullystraddlethetwoSubordinateLodgeyearswithoutabreakinthefollow-through.Inanycase,thebudgetandpublicityconsiderationsmustalsoconformtothesamedual-termschedule.

Governors of States, Lieutenant Governors, Mayors and other prominent elected officialsshouldbeaskedtoproclaimElksNationalYouthWeekoratleastissueaspecialmessagetothecitizensrelating to thisprogram.This isa jobforStateAssociations through theirPresidentorYouthCommittee.

ExaltedRulersorlocalYouthCommitteesshouldseekasimilarproclamationorendorsementfromMayorsof thecitiesandcommunities.WeusuallyhaveElksonCityCouncils,BoardsofAldermen,orthelegislativebody,whateveritsname.ResolutionsofendorsementofElksNationalYouthWeekwilllikelybeeasytopassinsuchgoverningbodies,ifthesamearesoughtinproperfashion.

Publicityresultingfromsuchactivity,tothelocalLodgeandtheOrdergenerally,cannotbeoverestimated.

Inmanycommunities, itmaybepossible for selectionsofoutstandingboysandgirls tobedesignatedasHonoraryMayor,CityClerk,PoliceChief,etc.,tositwiththeregularCityOfficersduringadayandthuslearnthemechanicsoflocalgovernmentfirsthand.Againthepublicityvalueisextraordinary.

PossiblyyourLodgemightliketousetimeduringElksNationalYouthWeekasanoccasioninwhichtorecognizepublicly,theYouthleadersofyourcommunity.Itwouldbeanexcellentoccasiontohonortheseyoungpeoplewithabanquetorsomeprogramtowhichtheclergy,schoolpersonnel, public officials and others interested in youth and community betterment are askedto attend and participate. Maybe you would like to add a festive finale to the activities with asupervisedTeenagedance.

StateAssociationsareurgedtobecomeactiveinYouthWeekProgrampromotiononastatewidebasis,withSubordinateLodgescoordinatedandcooperating,whichmakesforbig-scalepublicity.SeveralStateAssociationsdoanoutstandingjobeachyearandareabletoenlistthecooperationofradioandTVstationsandnewspapers,resultinginmassparticipationonthepartofanumberoforganizations.ThissortofpromotionisoftremendousvaluetotheSubordinateLodgesinastate,buildspublicacceptanceandappeal,andcreatesgoodwillforourOrderonthenationallevel.

OurCommitteestronglyrecommendsthatconsiderationbegivenbyStateAssociationYouthCommitteestoprogramsofthistype,whichnecessarilyrequiremuchearlyplanningandorganizationalwork.Thetimetostartisnow.

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TheYouthWeekpromotionwillbeconductedonacontestlevelwithrecognitionandawardstothoseSubordinateLodgesthatpresentwrittenevidenceofthebestandmostconstructiveYouthWeekProgram.Lodgeswilldivide into sixgroupswith the followingmembershipbreakdown:DivisionI-Lodgeswith300orfewerMembers;Division2-Lodgeswith301thru500Members;Division3-Lodgeswith501thru700Members;Division4-Lodgeswith701thru1100Members;Division5-Lodgeswith1101thru1500Members;Division6-Lodgeswithover1500Members.

IMPORTANT: THIS CONTEST IS BASED ON YOUTH WEEK ACTIVITIES WHICH TAKE PLACE

BEGINNING THE FIRST WEEK IN MAY, IMMEDIATELY PRECEDING THE GRAND LODGE SESSION.

(SeePage24forfilingdates)

EntriesmustbefiledwiththeGrandLodgeCommitteemaninchargeoftheProgram(check the Grand Lodge Directory or the most recent Grand Lodge Committee List).EachlocalLodgeentryMUSTbesubmittedwithamembershipclassificationsignedby theLodgeSecretaryreflectingthe Lodge’s membership as of April 1 of the current year. Filing dates and additional contestinformationappearsineachyear’sGrandLodgeProgramBooklet,inmonthlyissuesoftheGrandLodgeNewsletterandinspecialmailingstoallLodgesandStateYouthChairmen.

Toqualify,nobrochureshallbeover18poundsinweight,norexceed15inchesby18inchesin size and 5 inches in thickness, including cover. The brochures must be securely bound forjudging.

Detailed informationon theYouthWeekProgram isdistributedannually to allLodgesandStateYouthChairmenwellinadvanceofMay1st.Theimportantthingtodonowistostartwithyourplanning.AssigntheprojecttoaspecialcommitteeandsuggestthattheyorganizemonthsinadvanceandworkuptoaglamorousclimaxbygoingalloutforElksNationalYouthWeek.

AWARDS FOR BEST YOUTH PROGRAM SUBORDINATE LODGE CONTEST

GRANDLODGEAWARDSwillbemadetoLodgesoftheOrderwhichsponsoredandmaintainedBest Youth Programs during the current year. Lodges will be divided into six groups with thefollowingmembershipbreakdown:Division1–Lodgeswith300orfewerMembers;Division2–Lodgeswith301thru500Members;Division3–Lodgeswith501thru700Members;Division4–Lodgeswith701 thru1100Members;Division5–Lodgeswith1101 thru1500Members;Division6–Lodgeswithover1500Members.

NOTE: All Awards are made on activities for the Lodge Year (April 1 — March 31) justcompletedprecedingtheGrandLodgeSession.LodgemembershipcategoryisbasedontheApril1reportatthestartoftheLodgeYearduringwhichtheactivitiestookplace.

JudgingwillbeonthebasisoftheEffectivenessofPresentationCaptions,Photos,Clippings,Neatness,TableofContents,Organization,andSummary.10-20 Points Possible

MajorPrograms—StudentorTeenageroftheMonth,NationalYouthWeekObservance,ScoutingParticipation,HoopShootContests,DrugAwarenessProgram,Student/VeteranVolunteerProgram,ElksSoccerShootProgram,SubordinateLodgeScholarships(not Elks National Foundation).5-10 Points Possible Per Program.

EachAdditionalYouthProgram.5 Points Possible

ToTal PoinTs DeTermine The Winner in each GrouP caTeGory.

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THOSELODGESineachstateselectedbytheirrespectiveSTATEASSOCIATIONSastheLodgesineachoftheaforementionedgroupswiththebestYouthProgramfortheyearwillbethatState’sentriesintheNationalCompetitionandwillbeeligiblecontestantsfortheGrandLodgeAwards.

TheLodgeineachStatedesignatedbyitsStateAssociationastheOVERALLWINNERwillreceivefromtheGrandLodgeCommitteeahandsomeAward,suitablefordisplayintheirLodgebuilding.

STATE ASSOCIATION YOUTH COMMITTEES are responsible for selecting the winningLodgesintheirstateandmustcertifythewinnerstotheGrandLodgeYouthActivitiesCommittee,strictlyadheringtotheprescribedfilingdates.SeePage24forfilingdates.

StateAssociationYouthCommittees,instrictcompliancewiththerulesandregulationsandthedeadline filingdate,will submit all brochuresof thebestLodges in their state, as selectedandcertifiedbythem,totheGrandLodgeCommitteemaninchargeoftheProgramforentryandparticipationintheGrandLodgeContest.Toqualify,nobrochureshallbeover18poundsinweightnorexceed15inchesby18inchesinsizeand5inchesinthickness,includingcover.

We suggest that the presentation be in loose-leaf book form, attractively bound and properly labeled, with photographs, news write-ups and a brief resumé of what the Lodge has done in youth work during the year. The brochure should show how many boys and girls were served and the time given and money invested. It is to be understood that money invested in a program is not the actual influencing factor at all; it is the type of program that counts and its actual effectiveness on Youth. We are interested in total money spent and per capita Member outlay for statistical purposes only.

STATE ASSOCIATION CONTEST FOR BEST YOUTH PROGRAM

ThiscontestprovidesanopportunityforStateCommitteestopreparebrochuresoutliningtheirprogramsforjudgingbytheGrandLodgeYouthActivitiesCommittee.ItisdesignedtorecognizeStateAssociationswhoseYouthCommitteeshave(1)providedguidancetotheirSubordinateLodgesinpromotingtheprogramsoftheGrandLodge,and(2)haveattainedstatewideparticipationwithstrongandmeaningfulprogramsinallLodges.AwardsforoutstandingprogramswillbepresentedattheGrandLodgeConvention.

Brochurejudgeswillassignequalweighttoeachofthetwocategoriesgivenabove.Inthefirstcategoryemphasis isplaceduponcommunications,Lodgevisitations,press releases, andotherevidenceofpromotionalworkonthepartoftheStateAssociation.ThesecondcategoryevaluatestheaccomplishmentinyouthworkofasmanySubordinateLodgesaspossiblewithanultimategoalof100percentparticipation.

EachentryshouldcontainasummaryofthetotalprograminbroadcategoriesonastatewidebasisanddetailingsuchitemsasthenumberofLodgesactivelyparticipating.Committeesshouldgiveearlyattentiontomaintainingarecordofactivitiestoinsureorderlyandcompleteresumésofaccomplishmentsforpresentationinaneatandattractiveform.Documentedandphotographicevidenceofyouthactivitieswillenhanceanentry.Abrochuremaynotbeover18poundsinweight,norexceed15inchesby18inchesinsizeand5inchesinthickness,includingcover.Checkweightsandsizeonallbrochures.

EntriesmustbefiledwiththeGrandLodgeCommitteemaninchargeoftheProgram.PleasepaystrictattentiontothedeadlinefilingdatefoundonPage24.

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JUNIOR GOLF PROGRAM

AJuniorGolfProgramcanbeoneof themost successful andvisibleprogramswhich fallsunder the auspicesof theYouthActivitiesCommittee.Weare encouraging eachLodge and/orDistrict/StatetosponsoraJuniorGolfProgramorTournamentduringthiscomingyear.

Thefollowingwillelaborateonthetwocategoriessuggestedaboveforyourconsideration:

JUNIOR GOLF PROGRAM ACTIVITIES SponsoraGolfDayforJr.golfersatyourlocalcourse,perhapsrotatingamong

coursesinyourarea;

Arrangefortimeatthedrivingrangeorontheputtinggreenforpractice;Providelesson(s)onaone-timeoranongoingbasisforyouth;

Inviteaprofessionalortrick-shotartisttodemonstratehis/herskills;

InquireaboutprogramdollarsforJr.GolffromyourlocalorregionalPGA;Havelocalmembersorcourseprofessionalgivelessonsongolfetiquetteandrules;

Sponsoragolfcampwithastructuresimilartoabaseballorbasketballcampwithadurationof1-2days;

Sponsora2-4weekleagueseason(with teams),varyingthetypeofplay(Best Ball, Alternate Shot, or Individual Play);

Givesometypeofrecognitionorawardattheendofanyoftheseactivities,i.e.hats,T-shirtsorotherprizes.

JUNIOR GOLF TOURNAMENT SponsoralocaltournamentfortheJr.golferswithinyourjurisdiction;

SponsoraDistricttournamentfortheJr.golferswithinthatjurisdiction;and/or

SponsoraStatetournamentfortheJr.golfersinyourstate.

BROCHURE CONTESTRecord your Junior Golf activities and send your brochure to the appropriate Grand Lodge

YouthActivitiesCommitteeMemberforyourArea.BrochureContestdeadlineisMay1st.

UnlikeFootballandBasketball,Golfisinternationallyrecognizedasalifetimesport.TheYouthofAmericawillbenefitfromanyprogramand/orpromotionofthisworthwhileactivity.

REMINDER… BROCHURES IN ALL CONTESTS MUST NOT WEIGH MORE THAN 18 LBS, NOR EXCEED 15 x 18 INCHES IN SIZE AND 5 INCHES IN

THICKNESS, INCLUDING COVER

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WHEN TO MAIL REPORTS AND CONTEST ENTRIES

Deadline

1. Youth Week Contest Subordinate Lodge entries must be received (Referred to on Pages 20 & 21) by the appropriate Grand Lodge Committeeman no later than ........................May 29th

Judging completed at national level by ................................ 1st week of June

2. Subordinate Lodge for Subordinate Lodge entries to be judged at Best Youth Program the state level must be received by the (Referred to on Pages 21 & 22) State Chairman no later than....................March 23rd

State Chairman to name outstanding Lodges and declare state winners by ............ April 6th

State Chairman sends state winner in each of six Membership Divisions and also names “Outstanding Lodge” and all entries in hands of G/L Area Committee Member by ................................ April 20th

Judging completed on national level by ........................................... May 11th

3. State Association Contest for All entries must be received by the Best Youth Program appropriate Grand Lodge Committeeman (Referred to on page 22) no later than ................................................ April 20th

Judging completed at national level by ............................................May 10th

4. Annual Report - Page Two Must be received by the Office of the (Referred to on page 19) Grand Secretary no later than ........................ May 1st

5. Junior Golf Brochure Contest All entries must be received by the (Referred to on page 23) appropriate Grand Lodge Committeeman no later than .................................................... May 1st

CAUTION DEADLINE DATES MUST BE CAREFULLY OBSERVED. FAILURE TO COMPLY MAY DISQUALIFY A WORTHY CONTENDER. ALL BROCHURES MUST BE IN THE HANDS

OF THE COMMITTEE MEMBER IN CHARGE ON THE DATE SET AS DEADLINE.

Please Note: All Lodge contest brochures must include a letter from the Lodge Secretary verifying membership as of March 31st of that Lodge year. Exception: The Youth Week Contest is based on the April 1 membership of the current year.

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CONCLUSION

TheCommitteefullyrealizesthatthesuccessofthisYouthProgramdependsonthemeasureofcooperation received fromSubordinateLodgesandStateAssociations.Wefeelconfidentofthis cooperation, and pledge again the assistance of our Committee in every possible way. Insummarizingtheprogramandobjectives,weearnestlyrequestthatyou:

Plan and carry through a sound,well-balanced andyear-roundYouthProgramthattouchesthelivesofchildrenofallagesandstationsoflife.

Enlist your community’syoungpeople inyourLodge’s efforts to care for andbrighten the lives of America’s Veterans, and learn to appreciate those whosacrificedtomakethefuturepossibleforthemandallofus.

Conduct expanded Student or Teenager of the Month/Year Programs withproperrecognitiontothosewhoareselectedtobehonoredfortheiroutstandingachievements.

Encouragegoodcitizenshipamongyoungpeoplethroughprogramsdesignedtoincreaseknowledgeofandanappreciationforlawenforcement.

MakeElksNationalYouthWeekanoutstandingYouthobservanceandaneventtoberememberedinyourLodgeandyourcommunity.

Provide a safe meeting environment for Scout Troops/Units in our localLodges.

Give the elementary schoolboys andgirls a chance toparticipate in an “ElksSoccerShoot.”

Andfinally:

RememberwhichAREAyourLodgeandStatearein(see list below).

Contact your Grand Lodge Youth Activities Area Committeeman or ContestChairmanforanswers toanyquestionsyoumayhave,foradviceandcounsel,andforsuppliesifnotsuppliedbyStateChairman.

Your activeparticipation inpromoting theYouthActivitiesProgramwill helpourYouthmeetthechallengeoftomorrow.

HELPFUL HINTS FOR BROCHURE PREPARATION 1. IncludeaTableofContents 5. Numbereachpageatthebottom 2. Colorphotographsarepreferred 6. Originalnewsclippings/lettersrecommended 3. Avoid“formletters”orblankGrandLodge 7. Identifyeachsectionwithtitlepage formsandcertificates correlatedtoTableofContents 4. Nomorethan10pagesforanyprogram 8. Stressqualityofprogram—notquantity

For additional suggestions, contact any G.L.Y.A. Committeeman

GRAND LODGE AREASArea 1: Connecticut,Maine,Massachusetts,NewHampshire,NewYork,RhodeIsland,VermontArea 2: Delaware,DistrictofColumbia,Maryland,NewJersey,PennsylvaniaArea 3: Alabama,Florida,Georgia,Mississippi,NorthCarolina,Panama,PuertoRico,SouthCarolina,

Tennessee,VirginiaArea 4: Indiana,Kentucky,Michigan,Ohio,WestVirginiaArea 5: Illinois,Iowa,Minnesota,Missouri,WisconsinArea 6: Arkansas,Colorado,Kansas,Louisiana,Nebraska,NewMexico,Oklahoma,TexasArea 7: Arizona,California,Guam,Hawaii,Nevada,Philippines,UtahArea 8: Alaska,Idaho,Montana,NorthDakota,Oregon,SouthDakota,Washington,Wyoming

NOTES

FOR THE RECOGNITION OF YOUTH

THROUGH SUBORDINATE LODGE

AND STATE ASSOCIATION

YOUTH PROGRAMS

CODE 512100 – Printed version revised 5/2007; Online PDF version revised 5/2007

USA

Documents

c mAnuAl - nyselks.org · youth activities committee manual published by grand lodge benevolent and protective order of elks of the united states of america b • p • o • e l