Elks scholars already have a deep connection to the Elks. Across the country, the financial and emotional support from the Elks leave a powerful impact on their lives. To keep scholars involved for years to come, it is vital for Elks to engage them today. Properly guided, Elks scholars can become tomorrow’s Elks!

Lynn Rutherford-Snow embodies a dedicated and enthusiastic Elk who is determined to guide scholars into Elkdom. Her current target—Rebecca Kaspak—a Legacy Scholar attending the University of Virginia. To fulfill her service requirement, Rebecca was thrilled at the opportunity to serve at the Charlottesville, Va., Lodge No. 389’s Hoop Shoot contests.

“I really enjoy working with kids, so I thought this would be a good opportunity to combine fun with service,” says Rebecca. “I contacted the Lodge here in Charlottesville and was connected with Lynn. She was super excited to have me come volunteer and made me feel so welcome.”

Rebecca has served with the Hoop Shoot for two years. In 2016, she volunteered as a rebounder for the Lodge contest. In January of this year, she served as a rebounder at the state Hoop Shoot contest.

“It has indeed been my pleasure to work with Rebecca during the Hoop Shoot contests for my Lodge and the state contest for Virginia,” reflects Rutherford-Snow. “Her vibrant personality is contagious. Plus, she is always smiling!”

From their first meeting, Rutherford-Snow was determined to help Rebecca feel like she was part of the Elks Family.

“Lynn really took me under her wing and introduced me to the members involved with the Hoop Shoot,” explained Rebecca. “She went above and beyond to make me feel like a part of the organization and even invited me to dinner at the Lodge before one of their meetings.”

Rutherford-Snow is passionate about helping Rebecca see what the Elks are all about.

“I wanted Rebecca to experience firsthand that Elks Care—Elks Share,” explains Rutherford-Snow. “This is an awesome way to get them involved and hoping they will join our Great Order of Elkdom one day!”

Rebecca’s experience serving with Rutherford-Snow has created a passion for the Elks. Rebecca has returned to the Charlottesville Lodge to pack hygiene kits for mothers at the local Ronald McDonald house. She also visited for a recognition dinner.

While Rebecca is still unsure about what her future holds, she always knows her Elks Family is there for her.

“I do hope to stay involved with the Elks after college,” says Rebecca. “Time will tell where I will end up, but I’m sure I will find a Lodge wherever I am!”

A simple invite can make all the difference for an Elks Scholar. There are many other scholars like Rebecca. They share her passion for service and building stronger communities. By engaging scholars in Lodge activities, we can build a stronger Elkdom.

For 2017-18, the Elks National Foundation allocated $1.2 million to fund 300 scholarships for the children and grandchildren of Elks. If you know any Elks children who are high school seniors, encourage them to visit enf.elks.org/leg for information, including eligibility and deadlines.