Americanism Essay Contest
"What Does Patriotism Mean to Me?”
The features introduced to the contest 2 years ago continue:
1) Four separate divisions for 5th, 6th, 7th & 8th grade students.
2) Awards for Each Grade Level:
- $1,500 for 1st
- $750 for 2nd
- $500 for 3rd.
I am pleased to announce that the Grand Lodge Fraternal Committee has selected the theme, “What Does Patriotism Mean To Me?” for the 2024-2025 Grand Lodge Americanism Essay Contest.
The contest starts with the Local Lodges, progresses through District and State levels, and ends with the naming of our National Winners at the Grand Lodge Session in Kansas City, Missouri in July 2025.
This contest gives students in four separate grade levels, grades 5-8, the opportunity to thoughtfully, evaluate and express their views on the selected annual theme.
Nationally, first-place, second-place and third-place authors in each division will receive monetary awards of $1,000, $500, and $250 respectfully. Many Lodges, Districts and State Associations also provide various forms of recognition to their respective winners, and the Fraternal Committee appreciates and encourages their extraordinary efforts in support of the contest.
Contest materials including the “annual contest theme” are published online on May 1. Lodges are encouraged to communicate with school officials in a timely fashion to facilitate annual curriculum planning. Contest materials and a fillable Certificate of Participation for Lodge completion are located at: https://www.elks.org/grandlodge/fraternal/downloads.cfm.
This contest is vitally important to Elks as it promotes Americanism in our local communities. It encourages 10-13 year old students to thoughtfully consider American values and appreciate the blessings and responsibilities of citizenship. The Grand Lodge Fraternal Committee is committed to assisting you in promoting Americanism.
Please let us know what we can do to be more helpful!
Application Packet
Click the large button below to download the application materials. All applications must include the coverpage to identify the student and local Elks Lodge it is submitted to. Essay should be submitted to your nearest local Elks Lodge on/before December 15, 2024.