On the first Saturday in May, under a beautiful blue sky, Christian County Elks Lodge #2777 welcomed the community for Elks Community Appreciation Day, a nationwide celebration held by Elks lodges across the country.

At our lodge, we celebrated with a fun-filled day for kids and adults alike, enjoying kite flying, fellowship, and community spirit. The Elks provided complimentary hamburgers, hot dogs, baked goods, and more for everyone who stopped by.

Community Appreciation Day is also a special opportunity to say thank you to the many partners who support our lodge and serve our community. Each year, Christian County Elks is able to obtain multiple grants through member donations to the Elks National Foundation. Because of those donations, our lodge can receive up to three times that value back in grants to support local programs and organizations.

This year, through a $4,500 Gratitude Grant from Grand Lodge, Christian County Elks presented donations to the following community partners:

Least of These Food Pantry of Ozark — $1,000
Sheriff’s Department D.A.R.E. Program — $550
4-H Shooters Club — $550
Scout Troop 201 — $500
Scout Pack 75 — $500
CASA — $700
Camp Barnabas — $700

Thank you to all the members, guests, and community partners who supported Elks Kite Day and helped make it such a meaningful event. The work and generosity of the Elks continue to shine throughout our community, bringing joy to children, supporting families, and ensuring veterans receive the recognition and appreciation they deserve.