Our Youth
Of everything that the Elks do, perhaps nothing is more important than their work with the country's youth. The efforts of the Elks on behalf of the young--in Scouting and scholarships, sponsoring athletic and artistic endeavors, youth camps, and drug awareness programs--sow the seeds of accomplishment and commitment that benefit the nation. The work and generosity of the Elks help today's youth become tomorrow's scientists, industrialists, academics, artists, athletes, and much more.
Backpack Drive
Palm Coast Elks #2709 conducts a backpack and school supplies drive each summer in an effort to ensure the youth of our community have the essentials to begin the school year.
Unfortunately, 10.7% of families and children right here in Palm Coast live below the poverty line. Supplies are disbursed through the local Palm Coast Education Foundation.
Toys for Tots
Our Lodge continues to serve as an official Marine Toys for Tots drop location for unwrapped toys that are distributed right here in our community.
2022 marked the 75th Anniversary of the Marines Toys for Tots campaign. During this time, the Marines have distributed over 627M toys to over 281M children. In 2021, 4,300 toys were given to 1,538 children in need right here in Flagler County.
Frank Celico Memorial Foundation
Our Lodge provides space, gifts and the meal for the annual Celico Foundation Children's Christmas Party.
In Frank's memory, this foundation was formed by family and friends, dedicated to keeping his memory alive through bicycle safety programs, bike helmets and the donation of bicycles to the children of our county who are less fortunate.
This year, 35 local children received bicycles and gifts.
Annual Elks Hoop Shoot
Our Lodge annually participates and conducts a local "Hoop Shoot", a national free throw contest that has been developing gritty kids for 50 years.
Our local contest for the 2022-2023 season was held on October 29th at Old Kings Elementary School. Winners will compete in the FL Elks State Hoop Shoot Championship on February 18, 2023 at the Florida Elks Youth Camp in Umatilla, FL.