On April 7, Viera Elks Lodge #2817 held its19th annual Golf Classic at Rockledge Country Club, which was open to the public. The event was chaired by member Heidi Vargas, who put together a team comprised of Antlers members and lodge members. The committee greeted 104 players. There were 31 hole sponsors and 72 door prizes to be raffled. At the end of play, the golfers were invited to the lodge for sandwiches, snacks, door prizes and the raffle. The proceeds from the event allowed the lodge to donate $1,500.00 each to Survive First and Veterans Connections to A New life. The lodge’s charity fund also received $7,669. Survive First is an organization whose mission is to reduce first responder suicide through quality education, peer support and mental wellness resources. They are a source for first responders and their families seeking information to help navigate through the mental health challenges that result from a career in public safety and health fields. Their motto is “No First Responder Left Behind.” Veterans Connections to A New Life is an organization whose mission is to provide unique and personalized service and support to veterans, at no charge, who are homeless or at-risk and struggling to transition into civilian life. They provide basic essentials, like backpacks full of toiletries, as well as find them adequate housing or purchasing home furnishings. They also offer substance abuse programs. The lodge’s donation is directed to their PTSD Equine Therapy Program.