Chilliwack Elks recognized for 100 years of community service

It was a year late, but the local Elks lodge was recognized for its 100 years of community service on Monday.

Chilliwack Elks Lodge #48 celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2020, but due to the pandemic, a special congratulatory visit from the Elks of Canada Grand Exalted Ruler did not happen – until now.

On Monday, Sept. 20, members of the local lodge were joined by Grand Exalted Ruler (national leader) Maurice W. Koszman of Saskatchewan.

Koszman handed over a special certificate to Chilliwack Elks Lodge Exalted Ruler, Ron Molnar, in celebration of their centennial anniversary and in recognition of their 100 years of community service.

The Chilliwack Elks have supported countless community groups, charities and families since 1920 including Chilliwack Hospital Foundation, Ann Davis Society, Chilliwack Minor Hockey, Chilliwack Community Services, Legion Branch 4 and 280 poppy funds, and Ruth and Naomi’s Mission.

They also support yearly bursaries to three local schools and have done more than 47,000 hours of volunteer work in Chilliwack.

The Elks of Canada was founded in 1912 and Elk members are most known for their services to children. Their national charity fund (Elk & Royal Purple Fund for Children) provides financial assistance to children and youth’s medical needs, supports and promotes awareness for programs geared toward children with hearing and speech disorders, and provides bursaries to students studying communicative disorders.

Also on Sept. 20, the lodge handed over a $1,000 cheque to the Grand Exalted Ruler for the Elk & Royal Purple Fund for Children.

The public may still view Elks as a fraternal organization, which they were for many decades. However, a referendum vote in 1997 brought them together with sister organization, the Ladies of the Royal Purple.

The lodge is located at 104A-8645 Young Rd. and they meet on the first and third Monday of the month at 7 p.m. New members are welcome. For more, call 604-392-4414.

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