Staying current on ENF news and sharing information with his Lodge and District Chairs are how Root keeps everyone motivated in his state. “I believe that when people know how their money is invested and used, they will choose to support the Elks National Foundation,” he says. His advice seems to be working; Colorado has raised $2.5 million since Root became State Chair!
Root takes a well rounded approach to getting information to his Lodge and District Chairs. He holds sessions at their State convention, writes articles that can be used in Lodge bulletins and helps to train the new Chairs.
What advice would he give to other State Chairs who are looking to motivate the Lodge Chairs in their state? “Help Lodges find the right person for the job by explaining the ENF and the duties of the Chairperson,” suggests Root. “And after they become Lodge Chairs, train them on the things they might struggle with, such as how to fill out a remittance form and when to use the red heart pins.”
In October, he had the opportunity to join ENF staff members at a dinner with several Elks scholars in Boulder, Colo. Root has always counted the scholarship program among his favorites, but sitting down and talking with the students left him impressed and excited. “The students encouraged me so much,” said Root, “I could never give up ENF after meeting them.”
In addition to State ENF Chairperson, Root is involved with many other activities at the Lodge including Ritual, PER Association and he’s Organist. In 2009, he received the President’s Volunteer Service Award. At that point he had donated over 71,000 hours and 50,000 miles to the Elks. But despite this award, Root doesn’t let this go to his head. “I’m just a member with a title,” he says.