The Elks National Foundation was established in 1928 as the charitable arm of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America. It's mission is “helping Elks build stronger communities” by providing tomorrow's leaders, our youth, with a healthy beginning; honoring the Elks' pledge that, "So long as there are veterans, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will never forget them”; and helping the state Elks associations accomplish their charitable objectives.

Texas Elks Camp, in Ottine Texas, is for any special needs child who is a resident of the state of Texas. The Camp provides campers with an opportunity to try new things and to make new friends. Campers are encouraged to make their own decisions and become more independent. No child is denied acceptance on the basis of his or her income level, ethnic origin, race, creed, color or religion. There is no fee. Campers are accepted on a "first-come, first-served" basis.

The Elks Veterans Service Program is where Elks and their families give generously of their time, energy and resources so that the lives of our ill and aging veterans will be enhanced. Hundreds of thousands of hours and like numbers of dollars are devoted to programs that are designed to keep us true to our pledge: "So long as there are veterans, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will never forget them.” We host monthly parties on the first Thursday of each month. Everyone is invited. We also help sponsor the De George hotel of homeless veterans.

The Red Pig Program generates funds for the children of Ottine (our State project) along with the Sweetheart activities. We fill the Pigs in our Lodge, which is great, but we need to also reach out to the Community for their support wherever possible. Each Lodge member can receive one of our Red Pigs to fill themselves, or bring them to your work or a business that will allow you to leave it to collect donations, therefore, getting the community involved.

The Elks Drug Awareness Program has worked to prevent drug use by our youth through education. The Elks recognize that they are not experts in the field of drug education. However, we do have the resources -- in dollars, facilities and volunteers -- to work with the experts to ensure that young people know the facts about drugs. We can provide our drug awareness trailer for your next event.

The Elks “Soccer Shoot” Program works in cooperation with the local soccer associations, to be an extension of their existing programs, to add recognition for the dedication they have provided to the children they support and coach. Winners progress through Lodge, District, State and Regional Contests up to the National Finals.

The Elks "Hoop Shoot" Free Throw Contest is the largest and most visible of the many youth activities sponsored by Elks Lodges. More than three million boys and girls, ages 8-13, will participate this year. The Elks "Hoop Shoot" highlights the Elks commitment to America's youth. From the millions of youngsters who participate and advance through local, district, state and regional competition, six national champions are named — one boy and one girl in each of three categories: ages 8-9, 10-11 and 12-13. The winners each receive a trophy and their names are inscribed on a plaque at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts. Parents accompany contestants throughout the competition. The parents of finalists at the state, regional and national levels attend the competitions as guests of the Elks.

Most Valuable Student Scholarships consist of 500 four-year scholarships, ranging from $1,000 per year to $15,000 per year, for graduating high school seniors based on financial need, leadership and scholarship.

The Prosthetics Grant Program provides children needing specialized equipment with those items that may be too expensive for their family to purchase, or not covered by insurance. The program covers numerous forms of equipment, materials and/or services that may be required to enhance the quality of their lives.