CHICAGO, IL. – Through state grants, the Elks National Foundation provides state associations with the resources to support national programs, expand their existing charitable projects and explore new initiatives. This year, the foundation will grant $5.45 million to the state Elks associations.

The group will give $119,166 back to Maine in special project grants and major project grants to support scholarships, Hoop Shoot, veterans programs, and the state’s major charitable projects: the Diabetes-Hypertension Van and the Maine Children’s Cancer Program.

“Giving money back to states is important,” says Board Chairman John T. Traynor of Devil’s Lake, N.D. “Each state has unique needs. Grants allow the state associations to address those needs.”

During the 2004-05 fiscal year, the Elks of Maine donated $97,501 to the Elks National Foundation. This year, the foundation will give back the following:

A State Charities Grant of $52,440. The bulk of this grant will go toward the Maine state major project, but portions will be used to fund the state’s drug awareness, Hoop Shoot and Soccer Shoot programs.

A Special Projects Grant of $27,746 to enhance the state’s educational programs, as well as other charitable and philanthropic programs.

A total of at least $28,000 in “Most Valuable Student” scholarships to seven high school seniors from Maine. In addition, ENF will award up to nine Legacy scholarships – a total of $9,000 – to children and grandchildren of Elks who have been members for at least two years.

A total of $1,980 to Veterans Service volunteers through the Elks Veterans Service Commission. These funds will help them provide aid and comfort to hospitalized veterans.

The more gifts the foundation receives from donors in Maine, the more funds it provides to support the children, families and veterans in the state. During the 2004-05 year donors in Maine contributed $97,501 to the foundation, allowing the foundation to award $1.22 back to the state for every dollar received. The foundation relies on the support of Elks across the country,” says Traynor. “We’re happy to reward Elks in Maine for their generous support.” For more information about the Elks in Maine, visit www.maineelks.org.