Lander B.P.O.E. Lodge #2317 hosts multiple fundraisers throughout the year to raise money for several organizations and causes, both locally and statewide. Last week, Leading Knight of Lodge #2317 Kary Sommers presented a check for over $2,000 to Make-A-Wish Wyoming.
The funds for the donation were raised at a bowling tournament they organized last year as well as private donations, Kary shared. Charity is one of their principles with a primary focus on giving to youth and veterans. Their motto is “Elks Care and Elks Share.”
Local fundraisers for 2020 are unconfirmed but in the works right now for Lodge #2317. However, the yearly statewide fundraiser ‘Elks Angels Poker Run’ has been confirmed for the Lander/Atlantic City area over Labor Day weekend, Kary explained. Money raised from this statewide event goes toward scholarships for Wyoming children of veterans. Information about other fundraisers will be shared when details are confirmed.
Accepting the check from Lodge #2317 last week was Make-A-Wish Wyoming Fremont County volunteer Audrey Knollenberg and a recent wish recipient, 15-year-old Brayden Brown. Audrey shared an incredible amount of appreciation for the donation, as well as the essential role Make-A-Wish Wyoming provides to children with critical illnesses.
Brayden is a Lander Valley High School (LVHS) student battling cystic fibrosis. He’s an avid swimmer and shared he recently qualified for state on the LVHS swim team. Brayden explained his wish was to meet Olympian Michael Phelps, and that his wish was granted in November. “He’s really nice and laid back,” Brayden shared about meeting Phelps.
When asked what Make-A-Wish means to you, Brayden replied, “It means a lot. Without them, a lot of kids wouldn’t be able to do this and have experiences.”
You can learn more about Make-A-Wish Wyoming and ways to help here: Make-A-Wish Wyoming Chapter.