Erika Barger, a 2006 Legacy Award recipient, is leaving her own Elks legacy that goes far beyond her college years. In December 2008, Erika, a junior at Georgetown University, became a proud member of her hometown Elks Lodge in Ormond Beach, Fla.

“I have volunteered at my local Elks Lodge for several years,” Erika explains. “I am privileged to be able to continue this tradition as a fourth generation Elk!”

Even before becoming a member, Erika was extremely active in the Ormond Beach Lodge. She regularly volunteered during Red Ribbon week, distributing nearly 500,000 pieces of Drug Awareness Program material to 17 local schools. She annually participated in the Elks Christmas party, aiding children of families in need by distributing gifts and offering pony rides. She also helped judge student essays on patriotism for the Americanism essay contest.

Since joining in December, Erika has already signed up to chair the Government Relations Committee and be the assistant chair for this year’s Americanism essay contest. She also helped brighten Christmas for children in need by once again participating in the annual Christmas party.

In addition to her new Elks duties, Erika is extremely involved on campus. She is studying government and history, and plans to enter law school after graduation. Her ENF scholarship allows her to make the most of college.

“Without my Legacy Award, it would have been impossible for me to pursue my dreams,” Erika declares. “I would have had to take part in a rigorous work-study program, prohibiting me from participating in numerous activities.”

When not studying, Erika is active in the Georgetown community. She has been a member of the Women’s Crew team since her freshman year. After contributing articles to the Georgetown Federalist Newspaper for the past few years, she became the news editor this year. During Thanksgiving, she serves dinners to homeless women at the Open Door Shelter, and in December she volunteers for Wreaths Across America, helping to adorn more than 10,000 veteran graves with wreaths. She values her time in college, gaining exposure to different subjects and meeting and learning from students from around the world.

Erika is an inspiration to all of Elkdom!

In 2008-09, the Elks National Foundation allocated $1 million to fund scholarships for the children and grandchildren of Elks. If you know an Elk child who is a high school senior, encourage them to visit www.elks.org/enf/scholars for information, including eligibility and deadlines.