Elks mark 157 years

The Coeur d'Alene Elks Lodge 1254 belongs to a nationwide organization with a long history of doing good.

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks recently marked its 157th anniversary, celebrating its commitment to "unwavering dedication to charity, patriotism, and community service." 

Since its founding in 1868, the Elks have grown to have 800,000 members across 1,857 lodges nationwide, including the Coeur d'Alene Elks Lodge. It has donated more than $12 billion for a variety of causes, including student scholarships, veterans services and community projects.

Cliff Shove, the exalted ruler of Coeur d'Alene Elks Lodge 1254, said the lodge has given back over $11 million to the community.

It has supported Kootenai County law enforcement with an annual fundraiser, donating over $25,000 in the past five years. It supported veterans, youth organizations, the local Union Gospel Mission shelter and has a drug awareness program teaching young people the hazards of drugs and alcohol. It has a scholarship program where area students are awarded scholarships each year and is a major sponsor of the Veterans Stand Down.