All 10 lodges of the South Southwest District participated in the Florida Elks’ Army of Hope picnic and silent auction fundraiser Feb. 26, which had approximately 100 attendees. The Florida Elks’ Army of Hope provides vital assistance to the families of deployed and injured U.S. service members. Bonita Springs-Estero Lodge #2753 donated their lodge building for this event. The district raised a total of $33,141.59, with Naples Lodge #2010 donating $10,000 from its charity fund and Punta Gorda Lodge #2606 donating $2,500. Punta Gorda members also provided food for the picnic and assembled six silent auction baskets, and eight members served food throughout the event.