Pierre Elks Lodge 1953 has been named the 2022 South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs Partner of the Year.
Lodge 1953 was recognized at SDDVA’s annual benefit conference this week (Aug. 15, 2022) in Pierre.
“Pierre Elks Lodge 1953 has a legacy of dedication, commitment, and building partnerships within their community and within the state,” said Secretary Greg Whitlock of the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs. “For over thirty years, they and their community partners have coordinated a community-wide holiday gift giving program for veterans. This program ensures that veterans at the Michael J. Fitzmaurice State Veterans Home and the VA Black Hills in Hot Springs have a holiday to remember. The Lodge surveys the veterans and the facilities to determine their needs and works to gather these items and deliver them to the veterans in time for Christmas.”
The Lodge also supports the VABHHCS Community Based Outpatient Clinic in Pierre, hosts an annual Flag Day program to educate the community about the history of the American Flag, provides assistance to homeless veterans, and supports the community military honoring banner program.
“This award is a testament to the power and collaboration of a great partner,” said Whitlock. “As long as we continue to work together and support each other, we will continue to do amazing things for our veterans.”
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