what is the purpose of the elks organization
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks The Elks had modest beginnings in 1868 as a social club for minstrel show performers, called the "Jolly Corks".[4] It was established as a private club to elude New York City laws governing the opening hours of public taverns. After the death of a member left his wife and children without income, the club took up additional service roles, rituals and a new name. Desiring to adopt "a readily identifiable creature of stature, indigenous to America," fifteen members voted 8â€“7 in favor of the elk above the buffalo.[5] Early members were mostly from theatrical performing troupes in New York City. It has since evolved into a major American fraternal, charitable, and service order with more than a million members, both men and women, throughout the United States and the former territories of the Philippines and the Panama Canal.[6]
Order of the Arrow The Order of the Arrow (OA) is the National Honor Society of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA). The society was created by E. Urner Goodman, with the assistance of Carroll A. Edson, in 1915 as a means of reinforcing the Scout Oath and the Scout Law. It uses American Indian imagery for ceremonies bestowing recognition on Scouts elected by their peers as best exemplifying the ideals of Scouting. The OA promotes Scouting ideals, especially selfless leadership to help others, as lifelong values and encourages continued participation in Scouting and camping.