The future of our communities depends on the leaders we inspire today.

Across Canada, young people are looking for meaningful ways to make a difference, gain valuable experience, and connect with causes they care about. The Junior Elks Program is designed to do exactly that—empowering youth while strengthening the communities we proudly serve.

What is Junior Elks?

The Junior Elks Program is a youth-driven volunteer and leadership initiative supported by the Elks of Canada. Open to young people between the ages of 12 and 19, the program provides opportunities for youth to engage in community service, organize projects, develop leadership skills, and work alongside experienced mentors from the Elks organization.

Whether it’s organizing a community clean-up, hosting a fundraising event, supporting a local charity, or creating a project that addresses a community need, Junior Elks members are encouraged to take the lead and turn ideas into action.

Why Junior Elks Matters

For more than a century, the Elks of Canada have been dedicated to serving communities. The Junior Elks Program extends that tradition by helping young people discover the value of volunteerism, leadership, and community involvement at an early age.

Participants can:

• Develop leadership and teamwork skills.
• Gain valuable volunteer experience.
• Earn community service hours that may contribute toward high school graduation requirements.
• Build friendships and connections within their community.
• Learn how to plan and lead projects that create real impact.

Perhaps most importantly, Junior Elks members learn that they have the power to make a difference.

Support for Youth-Led Ideas

One of the most exciting aspects of the program is the opportunity for youth to receive funding and mentorship for their own community initiatives.

Eligible participants can apply for funding of up to $1,500 to help bring their project ideas to life. Projects can include community events, fundraising campaigns, environmental initiatives, youth activities, charitable partnerships, and many other creative ideas that benefit local communities.

The program encourages innovation, initiative, and a sense of ownership while providing guidance from experienced Elks members.

How Lodges Can Get Involved

Local Elks Lodges play a vital role in the success of Junior Elks.

To help launch new groups, the Elks of Canada offers grants of up to $500 to support information sessions and startup activities. These grants provide lodges with the resources needed to introduce the program to youth and begin building the next generation of community leaders.

By sponsoring a Junior Elks chapter, lodges create opportunities for mentorship, strengthen community connections, and invest in the future of volunteerism within their communities.

Building a Legacy of Service

The Junior Elks Program is more than a youth initiative—it is an investment in the future. It creates a bridge between generations, allowing experienced Elks members to share their knowledge while empowering young people to bring fresh ideas and energy to community service.

As communities continue to evolve, programs like Junior Elks ensure that the spirit of service remains strong for generations to come.

Together, we can inspire young leaders, strengthen our communities, and continue the proud tradition of Elks service across Canada.

For more information about the Junior Elks Program, visit the Elks of Canada website and learn how you can help empower the next generation of community leaders.