Decades of heart, hope, and hometown care from Craven’s devoted Elks.

The Elks of Canada Lodge No. 581 was founded in 1987 by four residents who had been traveling to Regina for meetings. They wanted to reduce the commute and contribute to local development, said Norm McNally, a long-time member and active participant in the lodge’s growth.

“There was a growing need for community development,” said McNally. “Craven was expanding, and we wanted to contribute something meaningful.”

The lodge’s first projects focused on improving local infrastructure, particularly the community hall. With the Elks’ support, the small facility was expanded, equipped with running water, heating and air conditioning. It now hosts meetings, events and support groups that serve many different people in the area.

One of the Elks’ national priorities is assisting children with speech and hearing difficulties. In Saskatchewan, the organization helped establish the Saskatchewan Pediatric Auditory Rehabilitation Centre at the University of Saskatchewan. The centre, now part of the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital, became a leader in newborn hearing screening and cochlear implant support, serving families from across the province.

“We’ve helped many kids get hearing aids and implants,” said McNally. “The earlier the treatment, the better the outcome. It makes a huge difference for the whole family.”

The Craven lodge currently has around 50 members, with about 15 attending regular meetings. Activities include family fun nights, music festival scholarships and support for local 4-H clubs and high school students. The group also funds a music therapy program for seniors at a care home in nearby Lumsden, offering comfort and connection through live performances.

Fundraising methods have changed over time. The lodge once relied on monthly bingo nights in Regina, but now holds pancake breakfasts, seasonal events and community dinners. “It’s easier, more local, and we make more money doing it,” McNally said. “And people enjoy coming out.”

In 2023, the lodge completed a major playground project near the community rink. What began as a $30,000 plan grew into a $120,000 investment through grants and community partnerships. The finished area includes a soccer field, basketball courts, picnic benches and modern playground equipment, built to be safe and accessible.

Though many members are older, younger residents and volunteers often assist with projects. “Not everyone wants to attend meetings, but they’ll show up when there’s work to be done,” McNally said. “It’s great to see the community step up.”

The lodge maintains traditional rituals and uses formal titles in meetings, following longstanding practices. While other lodges have simplified their structure, Craven has preserved its traditions.

Membership is open to all adults. Applicants fill out a basic form and can indicate skills they wish to share. Volunteers are always welcome for special events and projects throughout the year.

The Elks also provide emergency aid to families facing crises, such as house fires. McNally said several recipients have returned years later to donate in appreciation.

“Wherever there’s a child in need,” McNally said, “there’s an Elk rolling up their sleeves.”