For the Fains, charity and family go hand in hand. That’s why Rock Hill, S.C., Lodge No. 1318 is so important to Jack, Donnie and Austin Fain, three generations of Elks.

Twenty-five years ago, Jack Fain began the family’s Elks legacy when a friend suggested he join the Lodge. Jack quickly got involved by serving on various committees and volunteering at many charitable projects.

Inspired by his father’s involvement and the Elks good work, five years ago Donnie Fain joined the Rock Hill Lodge as well.

“After several trips to the Lodge, getting to know the members, and reading about the Elks National Foundation’s work, I decided to become an Elk,” explains Donnie.

Like his father, Donnie is committed to helping others, and has done so through his work at the Lodge and his support of the Elks National Foundation. The family tradition of serving others continued when Donnie’s 21-year-old son, Austin, joined his father and grandfather as a member of the Rock Hill Lodge two years ago.

“One of Austin’s wishes for his 21st birthday was to become an Elk after all the years of hearing about all the organization does,” says Donnie. “Seeing my father’s face as Austin was going through the ritual was my proudest moment as an Elk.”

Thanks to their extended Elks family, the Fain family is able to do more to give back to their community.