GLENWOOD SPRINGS, Colorado – There are no secret handshakes, and Elks Lodge #2286 members don’t wear Fred Flinstone’s Loyal Order of Water Buffaloes headgear. But Exalted Ruler Sharon Williams explained that rituals are performed during initiations and other ceremonies in the Lodge Room.The number of organizations Elks support is impressive. They know how to volunteer and fundraise. The lodge provides assistance to those in need, including veterans, youth, schools, the elderly and the community in general. And that is just the tip of the iceberg.Elk members are also very patriotic, collaborating with Aspen and Rifle lodges to sponsor a Vets Sports Clinic, and frequently sending care packages to American soldiers overseas. A special Lost Soldier Table is respectfully maintained at all times.The annual Elks Christmas Baskets project requires a great deal of teamwork. Elks combine forces with the Garfield County Sheriff volunteers to give out Christmas baskets. Last year, 151 baskets were distributed, including toys for families with children. “If we can help, we will try to help in any way we can,” said Sharon.This year will be the 23rd year the Elks will sponsor Christmas Memorial Dinner for the disabled, underprivileged and lonely. Youth programs are a high priority, with proceeds from the annual Elks Golf Tourney allocated to youth programs, and the distribution of dictionaries to local third graders every year. At the Glenwood Springs High School awards ceremony last week, Lodge #2286 awarded $500 scholarships to two GSHS students; $1,000 scholarships to five students; and a $1,200 scholarship to one student. Additionally, one student received a $1,000 scholarship from the Colorado Elks Association, and one student received $1,000 scholarship from the National Elks Association. Two Roaring Fork students and an Eagle High School student were also awarded $1,000 scholarships.The Elks conduct a local hoop shoot, a soccer shoot and participate in softball games in support of local youth. The Lodge also sponsors Boy Scout Troop #225. Shane Beckius was honored by the Elks at a Court of Honor May 13 for earning the Eagle Scout ranking. Al Maggard of Glenwood Springs is the State President of the Elks. He served as a State Trustee for three years, and has visited all 54 lodges in the state in the past four years.”It has been a pleasure and an honor to be a part of the Elks organization,” said Maggard. “You can do an awful lot for the community, and it makes you feel good to contribute.”