Central District

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Written by Carmen Rivera

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When Orlando Elks Lodge #1079 invests in its community, the impact reaches far beyond city limits. This summer, that impact was felt in Fort Myers, thanks to the lodge’s support of the Proximity Church Youth Group, a team of nine boys and two leaders on a mission to serve. Many in the group have previously volunteered at Orlando Lodge events. The group joined over 300 students July 14-17 at the Next Level Student Conference, a gathering for spiritual growth, fellowship and community service. The lodge’s $2,000 donation covered costs for transportation, housing, meals and supplies. One of their projects was at St. Matthew’s House Women and Children’s Shelter, a facility that has been at capacity since opening in November 2024. The shelter currently provides a safe haven for 11 mothers with children, 24 single women, and countless others in need. Florida has the third-highest homeless population in the nation, with a troubling rise in youth homelessness. At the shelter, the Orlando youth group helped refresh the mulch on the playground, performed beautification projects around the property, and created a welcoming environment for the children who use the space daily. They also joined fellow conference attendees in packing over 400 meals for the unhoused in Fort Myers.

For the Proximity Church youth, the trip was more than a conference. It was a lesson in humility, compassion and teamwork. They returned to Orlando not only with stories to share but with a deeper understanding of what it means to be part of something bigger than themselves. The lodge’s contribution did more than fund a trip. It empowered the next generation to serve, to lead and to live out the values that have made the Elks a force for good for over 150 years.

Pictured are Luis Marrero, youth leader; David Londono; Braden Johnson; Javier Maldonado; Micah Maldonado; Alexander Soza; Aramis Luzunaris; Adrian Burgos; Jonathan Graveran; and Mario DeJesus, youth leader.

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Written by Susan Slater

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On May 7, Zephyrhills Lodge donated $1,000 from the bingo crew to Pasco High School to sponsor Teacher Appreciation Week, held May 5-9. The sponsorship covered some of the cost of treats for 175 teachers and staff members throughout the week, including omelets, cookies, ice cream, snack cart and tacos. In recognition of their support, the lodge will be featured in the school’s newsletter and social media, and a banner advertising the lodge will be displayed on the school’s fence.

Pictured are Barbara Conklin, Exalted Ruler; Dawn Enright, parent & community liaison at Pasco High School; and Paul Nutting, PER.

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Written by Sherry Mackeil

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On May 3, Brooksville Elks Lodge #2582 held a Derby Day fundraiser for the Harry-Anna Trust Fund, raising $630. 

Members are pictured during the best derby hat contest.  

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Written by Susan Slater

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On March 26, Zephyrhills Elks Lodge #2731 donated $600 from the lodge bingo account to the Zephyrhills Little League to sponsor a team. The Zephyrhills Little League, renowned for its play-centric program, aims to ensure that young people grow up happy, healthy and safe, both on and off the field.

Pictured are Jay Klamer, PER, and David Walters, Zephyrhills Little League Director.

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Written by Susan Slater

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On April 23, the Zephyrhills Elks Lodge Veterans Committee members attended the Zephyrhills High School JROTC graduation ceremony for seniors. This event marked a milestone for the young cadets, who had dedicated their time and effort to the rigorous training and values of the JROTC program. The program motivates young people to be better citizens by instilling values such as citizenship, service, personal responsibility, a sense of accomplishment and leadership. The Veterans Committee donated $1,500 to the JROTC.

Pictured are Bill Morehouse, Esquire and Antlers Advisor; Ken Fabiani, PER, Veterans Chair; Barbara Conklin, Exalted Ruler; and First Sargeant McCauley from ZHS JROTC.