Cornerstone Grants

2024 Cornerstone Grant Applications are now closed.

Do you volunteer with a nonprofit organization? Would you like additional funding to start or enhance a service project? Organize your own service project!

We know that as an Elks scholar, you already uphold the cornerstones of the Foundation: knowledge, integrity, charity and community. Now, we want to help you do more! The ENF is offering ten $500 Cornerstone Grants to any Elks scholar interested in starting or expanding a community service project. We are also offering four $250 bonuses for projects done in collaboration with an Elks Lodge.

Looking for project ideas?

  • Consider a cause that you are passionate about and partner with an organization addressing that need.
  • Talk to your sponsoring lodge about what sort of service project they’d like to see at the Lodge. Ask them about charitable projects they are currently involved with, and see if there are any projects they’d like to see enhanced. You can find contact information for a Lodge near you here.
  • Contact our office at scholarship@elks.org and we can help you generate ideas or connect you with your local Elks Lodge.

Eligibility:

  • Any Elks scholar interested in serving their community in a meaningful way is eligible to apply.
  • The application opens June 17 and will be accepted on a rolling basis. You do not need to be a current undergrad to apply.
  • Ten $500 grants will be available with four potential $250 bonuses.

Criteria:

  • Any Elks scholar may apply for $500 to be used toward initiating or expanding a community service project.
  • Elks scholars must connect their service project with at least one of the following core partners: other Elks scholar(s), a student organization, a nonprofit, or an Elks Lodge.
  • Elks scholars must demonstrate meaningful involvement in their community service initiative. This grant cannot be used as a donation to an organization.
  • All 2024-25 grant funds must be used, and a project summary (with photos and receipts) must be submitted, by March 31, 2025.