Since inception in 1868, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks has grown from a small gathering of people with good deeds in their hearts to the largest fraternal organization in the U.S. With over 1 million members, the Elks have contributed more than $3.6 billion in donations for the nation’s youth, veterans, disadvantaged and handicapped, and to individuals and groups in support of patriotic and civic program. Each year this timeless organization gives more than $200 million in contributions and is one of the largest private providers of college scholarships in the United States.
If you’re amazed at these numbers and wonder why this is not common knowledge, it is because the heart of Elkdom is always humble.
Rarely does the order seek recognition for the profound change it has affected on millions of lives, nor have we gone to the general public with fund-raising efforts or received monies from any level of government. Instead, the Elks donated the first veterans’ hospital to the government and contribute regularly to schools, police and fire departments. We proudly display our volunteer spirit and gladly share whatever we can to make the world a better place for all. Each order has elected officials who serve without receiving compensation; it is through their sacrifice of time and energy that we are able to operate each Lodge and contribute so vastly to our country.
Currently there are over 2100 active Elk Lodges in the United States, each identified by a number and the name of the city in which the Lodge resides. We are very proud to be San Francisco Lodge No. 3, the longest continuous operating Lodge in Elkdom!
San Francisco Lodge No. 3 forms part of the Bay District 0640 and belongs to the California-Hawaii Elks Association. Annually the District comes together for friendly competitions, and visitors from neighboring Lodges are a common and welcomed event. The California-Hawaii Elks Association is comprised of over 180 Lodges throughout the state of California and Hawaii and is governed by officers and trustees who are elected from within the Association. It is through these groups the San Francisco Lodge participates in charitable causes such as Therapy Services for Children.
