The Elks have shown their devotion to Americanism by conducting bond drives, promoting civil defense programs and Flag Day observance. During World War II, they designated the week of March 15, 1942 "Win the War Week" and helped recruit for the United States Army Air Corps. An "Elks National Service Commission" was in operation from 1946 to 1950, and the Grand Lodge adopted a "Declaration of American Principles" in 1961 in Miami.

The trust fund started in 1951, was named after Harry and Anna Miller who donated land and a building to establish the original Florida Elks Hospital for Crippled Children. Its purpose was, and continues to be, the collection of donations and the acceptance of endowed gifts. 

The trust fund is restricted, which means that only the income derived from it may be used to support our major projects: the Florida Elks Children’s Therapy Services and Florida Elks Youth Camp programs.

A project of the Florida State Elks Association, this beautiful and modern 405 acre complex provides a unique camping experience for 7 weeks during the summer to all children of Florida ages 9 through 13. Camp sessions last from Sunday afternoon to Saturday morning and provide campers with housing, food, and of course, tons of fun!

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The Elks are committed to their mission,“So long as there are veterans, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will never forget them.” The Veterans Service Commission takes that pledge one step further, and promises service to our nation's veterans and military members, with a special focus on service to those in need.

A chance for young people in our communities to get involved with the Elks in the many service-related projects our Lodge sponsors.

The Antlers major objectives are the following:

• To quicken the spirit of American Patriotism

• To teach respect for parents and love of home

• To inculcate the fundamentals of good citizenship

• To aid in a worthy cause

• To establish foundation of character

• To promote the welfare and enhance the happiness of its Members

• And to respect the conviction of others in the matters of worship and religion is true Americanism

Membership in the organization is open to any individual ages 12-20, who is a citizen of the USA, of good character, and who believes in God.

The Helping Hands committee assists other committees by providing volunteers for their events. They meet once a month on Monday, after the meatloaf Depression Dinner, at 7pm.

The Elks National "Hoop Shoot" Free Throw Program is open to all boys and girls, ages 8 through 13. All public and private schools within the jurisdiction of the local Elk Lodge are invited to participate in the Elks National "Hoop Shoot" Free Throw Contest. Depending on interest, many school districts may participate in the Lodge contest. 

Our scholarship programs are for undergraduate and graduate study. A student may not receive more than one Elks National Foundation scholarship award or grant in any one academic year. This award is open to all high school seniors, and college students who are citizens of the United States, regardless of Elks affiliation, and plan to pursue a degree in a U.S. American college or university.

The Sarasota Elks has run Toys for Tots in Sarasota County for more than 20 years!

The Local Impact

Sarasota County - Florida during 2021

184,769 Toys Distributed

16,973 Children Supported

Marines Toys for Tots has been making Christmas wishes come true for needy children since 1947.  The mission of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys each year and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to children in need in our local community.  Our motto, "Every child deserves a little Christmas" has been made possible thanks to our hundreds of volunteers. 

All toy donations are greatly appreciated!  If you are looking for a suggestion, here are items in high need this year:  Toys for ages 0-24 months, gifts for teens, and bicycles 24", 26", 28"

Elks National Drug Awareness Program - the largest volunteer drug awareness program in the United States. We are very proud of our dedicated army of volunteers who freely give their time and talents to this most noble cause. The Elks are committed to eliminating the use and abuse of illegal drugs by all members of society and believe that in order to ensure a bright future for our country, it is essential that our children be raised in a drug-free environment.

Florida Elks Children’s Therapy Services provides in-home physical and occupational therapy to Florida children in need of such services. This rehabilitation is necessary to be rendered in the home because of the absence of these services locally, or because of the patient being medically infirmed at home. Priority is given to children who do not have ready access to therapy as a result of financial considerations.

To be eligible for membership in the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, you must be a citizen of the United States over the age of 21 who believes in God.

The Elks Soccer Shoot program consists of two different contests that test different level skills at different ages. A "Five Goal Contest" consists of a series of five goals, decreasing in size from 48 inches to 17 inches. The contest is open to boys and girls who shoot separately. 

The Grid Goal Contest consists of a full-size goal sectioned off so points can be scored when the ball is kicked into certain sections. The contest is open to both boys and girls and they shoot separately.