Thousands of members of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America and guests gathered in Minneapolis, Minnesota from July 2 to July 5 for the BPO Elks National Convention. During the convention, Ferdinand Pati of Glendale was installed as district deputy for the BPO Elks for lodges in the Metropolitan District of the California-Hawaii Elks Association and will serve a one-year term.

The BPO Elks is one of the premier patriotic and charitable organizations in the United States of America and is committed to making its communities better places to live. Each year, the Order donates more than $350 million in cash, goods and services to the needy, to students, people with disabilities, active-duty members of the U.S. armed forces and their families, veterans and their families, and charitable organizations. In the 155 years since the Order’s founding, the BPO Elks has made charitable donations totaling approximately $12 billion.

As part of the Elks’ ongoing commitment to help students achieve their goals, the Elks National Foundation awards annual college scholarships worth a total of more than $4.5 million each year to students across the country. To help local lodges make positive changes in their communities, the Elks National Foundation’s Community Investments Program provides local Elks lodges with more than $15.7 million each year to help them build stronger communities.

Through the Elks National Veterans Service Commission, Elks give generously of their time, energy, and resources. Elks provide direct service to veterans at more than 350 VA medical centers, state veterans homes, and clinics; use grants to provide veterans with food, supplies, and support; and provide beds, supplies, and emergency assistance to veterans experiencing homelessness. Elks pledge never to forget America’s veterans and keep that pledge every day.

To learn more and join us in service, visit Elks.org. For membership information, visit Join.Elks.org.