
On Oct. 26 at the Mrs. Roper Party, held at a local golf course restaurant run by a member, Fort Myers Ladies of Elks hosted a bra art contest to benefit Partners for Breast Cancer Care Inc., a grassroots nonprofit in southwest Florida that directs donations entirely toward helping uninsured, low‑income women and men access breast health services, such as mammograms. Ladies members crafted and embellished bras, and partygoers cast votes for their favorites at a dollar per vote. On Dec. 9, the Ladies of Elks presented a $1,000 donation to Partners, and Fort Myers Elks Lodge matched the contribution up to $500, bringing the total donation to $1,500.
Pictured is Mike Grafe, Exalted Ruler, modeling the winning bra.

On Dec. 10, Fort Myers Elks Lodge #1288 donated $1,000 to Eva’s Closet and Foundation, which serves more than 1,500 people each month in southwest Florida by providing clothing, food and household essentials at no cost to families in need.
Trustee Irma Spencer presents the check to Jessica Goodall, founder of Eva's Closet and Foundation.

On Dec.13, Naples Elks Lodge #2010 donated the $4,000 match of the Elks National Foundation Beacon Grant it received from the Harry-Anna Trust Fund to Domestic Animal Services of Collier County to help with needed items to take care of the animals waiting for a permanent home. Members Chery and Joe Musser volunteer at DAS and keep the membership informed when the need arises. Recently the lodge held a towel collection for them.
Pictured are Meredith McLean of DAS; member Chery Musser; and Bob Costello, Exalted Ruler. Also pictured is black Lab Sofia.

On Nov. 12, Naples Elks Lodge members met with the Pregnancy Resource Center personnel in Naples, who explained their services, which include ultrasounds, medical consultations, 24/7 nurse chats, counseling and mentorship. The lodge donated $2,000 to PRC to help deliver their services to women in need.
Pictured are Lisa Thompson, director of development; Bob Costello, Exalted Ruler; Jennifer Martello, staff member; and Brian Kamp, Lodge Grants Coordinator.
On Oct. 2, Punta Gorda Elks Lodge #2606 hosted a community blood drive, with 21 donors giving the gift of life to 63 individuals, since one pint of blood can save up to three lives. To show appreciation, OneBlood provided donors with a complimentary T-shirt and a $20 gift card. The lodge further supported the effort by donating a lodge T-shirt and a $10 gift card. The event was staffed by OneBlood professionals and supported by lodge volunteers who welcomed donors and assisted with registration. Many participants shared that they donate regularly and look forward to returning to the lodge each time.