Why Become a Member???
BECAUSE Elks are a nationwide community-service organization of well over a million American citizens. We love our Country and desire to preserve its cherished institutuions, traditions and values. We respect our neighbors and constantly seek to promote their well-being. We love and enjoy life and believe this enjoyment is increased by sharing it with family, friends, and all with whom we come in contact.
BECAUSE Elks seek to bring into our Order only those who delight in wholesome associations with congenial companions, men and women who possess a deep sense of patriotism, fair play and dedication to noble causes. Our members are people who find the fulfillment of their existense in service to humanity, in feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless, aiding those in distress; proving themselves to be true friends to all in need.
BECAUSE Elks do not question one’s religion, nor do we exclude anyone because of creed, race, ethnic origin, educational attainment, vocation, material status or physical stature. We measure character by what one is and does, not by titles or position. We do not seek to impose different beliefs in place of personal commitments to God, Family and Country, nor do we ask anyone to act in any manner contrary to the dictates of conscience. We do not permit religious or political differences to intrude into organizational considerations at the local, district, state or national levels.
BECAUSE You can join with the millions of fine and noble American Elks who have helped better the destiny and way of life for countless generations in our country for over 130 years. The generosity is without fanfare and often even without the recipient’s knowledge of the benefactor’s identity. You may even have been helped in the past. We have always been there, quietly providing help and encouragement. Now it’s your turn to get involved, to join America’s quiet humanitarians, and to give your life new purpose and fulfillment.
BECAUSE Elks expend over sixteen million dollars yearly to bring encouragement, cheer and comfort to veterans throughout the United States in fulfillment of our solemn pledge: “So long as there are veterans, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will never forget them.”
BECAUSE Through our local Lodge, district, state and national programs, we provide heathful activities, guidance and assistance to over eight million boys and girls each year. We fund scholarships, athletic teams, summer camp scouting and drug education programs. We encourage civic environmental and patriotic involvement through essay contests, seminars and distribution of materials; as well as family-oriented activities in our Lodges.
BECAUSE Elks operate numerous camps, hospital clinics, training centers and in-home services for the care and treament of children and adults with physical disabilities including vision and speech problems, across the country.
BECAUSE In more than 2,000 Elks Lodges throughout the United States, civic leaders, prominent public, business and professional life can be found. In these Lodges, located in the prinicpal cities and towns throughout America, smiling faces and a warm welcome await you as an Elk. You’ll never have to stand alone in an uncaring world around you, now that you’re a Member of the American Elks family.
How to Join the Elks
New Members
Any Elk in good standing (including those from another Lodge) may propose for you to join the Katy Elks Lodge. The official application can be obtained at the Lodge.
Once the form is filled out please give or mail it to the Secretary along with the Initiation fee. The process includes an investigative and indoctrinative phase in which an Elk from the membership committee will call you and arrange for a meeting at the lodge. Once approved by a membership vote the next step is to undergo the ritual of initiation. During this nearly 137 year old ritual which has had only minor changes since inception, candidates must pledge to our oath which includes a belief in God. The ritual when rendered from memory by the Officer’s can be quite an impressive ceremony which hopefully will imbue the new members with the true meaning of our venerable fraternal organization.
The whole process can take as little as six weeks and as long as 3 months to become a member. It all depends on the timing of the application and how it relates to Lodge meetings etc.
Eligibility
An applicant must be an citizen of the United States of America, of good character, 21 years of age or older, and believe in God. No persons shall be accepted as a member of this Order who is directly or indirectly a member of or in any way connected with the Communist Party, or who believes in the overthrow of our Government by force.
Membership is the ‘Life Blood’ of our Order
The primary message from every Grand Exalted Ruler each year is the same; membership is the “#1 priority” in Elkdom. We, as members are given the assignment to procure new members and work to retain our current members. It is only through a strong, active and growing membership that we can hope to fulfill our Order’s mission; that is, to promote the charitable and patriotic programs in our communities that aid our youth, our veterans and those in need.
Thanks in advance for everyone’s efforts. Remember – Membership is the ‘Life Blood’ of our Order!