Programs

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Making a Difference Where It Matters Most

Being an Elk means having fun with purpose! From sending kids to summer camp to supporting veterans transitioning to civilian life, our programs create lasting positive impacts. Every event, fundraiser, and volunteer hour contributes to making Mankato a better place for everyone.

Ready to join our mission?

Donate today to help us continue this important work!

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Youth Scholarships That Change Lives

Mankato Elks proudly provides approximately $10,000 in scholarships annually to local students. By applying for our Most Valuable Student Scholarship and selecting our lodge, students gain the opportunity to:

  • Receive a $1,000 local scholarship - Apply now for Most Valuable Student!

  • Advance to district, state, and national competitions

  • Potentially win up to $20,000 per year for college tuition

Elks Youth Camp:
"The Best Place on Earth!"

A group of children and two adults on a sandy beach, proudly displaying a large sandcastle they built near the water, with boats and a slide in the background on a sunny day.

Our Minnesota Elks Youth Camp spans over 300 beautiful acres on Pelican Lake in Nisswa, MN. Each summer, we give underserved children ages 9-13 the experience of a lifetime:

  • Mankato Lodge sponsors 6 girls and 10 boys annually

  • Week-long adventures from June through July

  • Life-changing experiences in nature

  • New friendships and confidence-building activities

Support our camp program by purchasing a $100 raffle ticket—all proceeds help send local kids to "The Best Place on Earth!"

Veterans Services:
Honoring Their Sacrifice

Close-up of a crumpled American flag with stars and stripes.

The Elks National Veterans Service Commission fulfills our pledge to never forget those who served. Our volunteers:

  • Provide direct service to veterans in over 330 facilities monthly

  • Connect veterans with essential community resources

  • Support rehabilitation through adaptive sports programs

  • Offer Welcome Home kits for veterans transitioning from homelessness

Bravo Zulu House:
A Safe Harbor for Healing

Text reading "Bravo Zulu House" over a camouflage background with a star symbol.

We're proud to support America's FIRST sober living home specifically for veterans with PTSD, located in Winnebago, Minnesota. This innovative facility offers:

  • A tranquil, supportive and home-like sanctuary for veterans overcoming addiction

  • Integrated therapies including counseling, dog therapy and hydroponic gardening

  • A holistic approach to healing the invisible wounds of war

Learn more about this amazing home.

Support Our Mission

Every contribution helps us continue programs that benefit Mankato's youth, veterans, and families in need. Contact us today if you’d like to donate to support one of our programs. 

Elks Care.

Elks Share.

Elks Care. Elks Share.