The "Great Heart of Elkdom" is a permanent trust fund established in 1928 to further the benevolent, charitable and educational programs of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America.

What better way to show the members of our communities that "Elks Care — Elks Share" than by administering and promoting the many programs funded through the Elks National Foundation.

Over 4 million dollars is granted annually by the Foundation, which is used to fund the following programs:

In order to continue funding these great programs, each Lodge is asked to solicit from their members membership contributions in the Elks National Foundation. Every Lodge Officer, and every Lodge Member, should be encouraged to invest in this program. The goal we have established to ensure the continued growth of the Foundation is $3.65 per Member, or a penny-a-day. Not much money when you consider the outstanding things we have been able to accomplish in the past.

Cohoes-Waterford maintains a proud history of reaching and exceeding this per capita contribution each and every year. This is accomplished through both individual donations, and a major fundraiser held once a year.

Each year in January, a "Tailgate" party is held on the Sunday of the NFL conference championships with all proceeds designated to benefit this charitable entity. Now in its third year, it has grown to be known as one of the premier events of the lodge calendar, and one of great anticipation among the members.

For more information on ENF, or to apply on-line for one of the Elks numerous scholarship applications, visit the Grand Lodge Website at www.elks.org/enf.