By Sera White
The Weiser Elks Lodge welcomed a special guest on Wednesday, September 10, when Sera White, State President of the Idaho Elks Association, stopped by to share news about the important work the Elks are doing across Idaho.
Her main message was about the Idaho Elks State Project, known as Idaho Elks Rehab. For 85 years, all 21 Lodges in the state have come together to raise money for this project, which helps fund rehabilitation services for Idaho families. Grants are awarded to local hospitals, nonprofits, and community groups that make a real difference in people’s lives.
This year’s funding will go to several key projects around the state:
- Teton Valley Health Care in Driggs – $85,000
To expand their rehab services by renovating nearly 3,000 square feet of space. - Champ’s Heart in Idaho Falls – $15,195
For the “Saddle Up Warriors!” program, which provides therapeutic saddles, helmets, and tack for adults with disabilities. Hippotherapy, or horse-based therapy, helps riders build strength, improve balance, and gain confidence. - BetterCare, Inc. in St. Maries – $75,000
To support aquatic therapy at Benewah Community Hospital, offering patients improved flexibility, strength, and reduced pain through water-based treatment. - Steele Memorial Hospital in Salmon – $400,000 over four years
To expand and enhance its rehabilitation department. As the most remote hospital in the lower 48 states, this investment will help ensure local residents have access to the care they need close to home.
Along with talking about these projects, White also shared information on scholarships and other opportunities supported by the Idaho Elks. She toured the Lodge, met with officers and members, and expressed her appreciation for the Weiser Elks’ hard work.
“I was very impressed by the Lodge, its members, and their activities,” she said. “The work you do is so important. Please continue to make a difference in your community. Every act of volunteerism matters.”
To learn more about the Idaho Elks and the impact they’re making across the state, visit idahoelks.org.
