Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks of the USA

“The lodge had an average membership of 424. Prospective members are sponsered by an exisiting member and then reviwed by an investigation committee. The investgation committee then at a regular lodge meetinmg recomends the applicant and the members present vote to include him or not.”

“Annually the lodge membership elects officers and a five year trustee”

“All decisions by the officers and trustees require a discussion and vote by the membership”

“The officers and trustees are provided copies for review prior to the filing of the 990 return.”

“The statutes of the organization, the by-laws of the lodge and the oath of membership explicitly prohibit the status of membership to be used for personal gain. Whenever a member is deemed to have violated his obligation then subordinate forum charges are brought and the situation is reviewed. If found that the member has conducted activities that are considered conflict of interest then he or she may be subject to penalties that may include expulsion.”

“The leader of the lodge has the title of exalted ruler. He is not compensated execpt for legitimate expenses that are supported by reciepts”

“The only officers that are compensated are the secretary and treasurer. Their compensation is reviewed by the trustees require a discussion and vote by the membership. The bar steward is also compensated. Once agreed upon then the by-laws are revised and sent to grand lodge for approval”

“A copy of the irs form 990 is submitted to the nj office of the attorney general -division of consumer affairs charitable registration section. The financials are posted on thier web-site for public viewing”