Chili’s helps support the Elks National Foundation

Elks Lodges, working in conjunc­tion with Chili’s Restaurants in San Diego County, are sponsoring a fun­draiser for the Elks National Founda­tion October 10 and 11, from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m..

With each event flyer presented at the time of purchase, Chili’s will do­nate 15% of their event day sales back to the Elks National Foundation.

Taking the lead in this event is Past Exalted Ruler Steven Wagstaff, from Escondido Elks Lodge No. 1687, who began this fundraising idea by work­ing with the manager at the Escondido Chili’s Restaurant in 2013.

The Elks National Foundation funds programs including the Hoop Shoot Free Throw Program, Drug Awareness Program, Scholarships for high school Seniors, and provides aid and comfort to veterans in need.

“The mission of the Elks National Foundation is to help Elks build stron­ger communities,” Wagstaff told The Times-Advocate.”We fulfill this pledge by investing in communities where Elks live and work. We provide tomor­row’s leaders, our youth, with lifelong skills; honor the Elks’ pledge to never forget our veterans; help the state Elks associations accomplish their chari­table objectives; and fund projects that improve the quality of life in local Elks communities.”

The Elks are always looking for new members. Interested in becoming an Elk and joining a Lodge? Contact the Escondido Elks Lodge at 760-745- 1687 or persteve1687@gmail.com. The lodge is located at 2430 South Es­condido Blvd.