The Salem Elks Lodge #1678 presented a total of twelve checks to various local organizations, distributing money from the Elks’ 31st annual charity golf tournament and Illinois Elks Association President’s Grant. Over $10,000 were donated in total.
The golf tournament raised a total of $8,500. The Elks gave $1,000 each to Grace United Methodist Church Diaper Ministry, Crisis Pregnancy Care, Emmanuel Equine Ministry, Mission Salem, Salem FOP Lodge #333, Trail Life Troop #262, Salem Little League, and SCHS Booster Club. $500 were awarded to the Marion County Sheriff’s Department.
From the IEA grant, $1,000 went to Salem Little League, $500 to the Little Egypt Festival, and $500 to the Salem Soccer Association.
Elks grant writer Mike Hooe said that the lodge tries to make sure that grant money is spread around to deserving organizations whenever it comes in. In total, $13,000 in grant money has come through the Salem Elks this year. The next grant cycle for the Elks will start in April of next year.
