Veterans

Veterans Service Program

Since the beginning of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, after the Civil War, Elks have served those who have fought for our great nation. During WWI and WWII, Elks assisted in the recruitment of pilots. After WWII, Elks donated the first V.A. hospital. Later, the Veterans Service Commission was formed with a commitment to serve veterans in need and to raise awareness of veterans issues. Our motto being: “So long as there are veterans, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will never forget them.” 

Our veterans program includes veteran appreciation dinners, hospital and nursing home visitation, fishing trips and picnics, and a clothing drive to benefit sheltered veterans striving to return to the workforce.  We support “Houston Stand Down,” a citywide event to identify and provide support to homeless veterans. Partnering with our district lodges, we serve a BBQ meal to these veterans. We collaborate and plan with the Veteran’s Administration and other veteran support organizations to provide a Family Fun and Resource Day for veterans. Veterans  Services  provides food cards/baskets, and gifts at Thanksgiving and Christmas time to families in need. 

The Veterans Services Committee collaborates with the Americanism Committee to facilitate ceremonies, to exhibit our national patriotism and respect for our flag, to celebrate our freedom, and to honor all veterans who have served.

Elks Serving Veterans:

So long as there are veterans, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will never forget them. Check out this inspiring video from the Elks National Veterans Service Commission:
You’re Important and You Matter