Jerry Wernicke, National Leader of the Elks of Canada, was in Smithers, to visit to the local Elks Chapter during their regular meeting, Feb. 28.
“That’s a pretty big event,” president of the Smithers Elks Chapter, Grant Gibson said.
“He’s made Smithers kind of a second home.”
During the visit, Wernicke, celebrating his 30th year as a member of the Elks and sixth as national president, received a cheque for $2,300 from the Smithers Elks, as a donation to the Elks and Royal Purple Fund for Children, or the Purple Cross Fund.
“The Purple Cross Fund assists children with hearing difficulties,” Gibson explained.
Monies from the Purple Cross Fund are used to provide assistance in the early identification and rehabilitation of children with hearing impairments, including the cost of hearing aids and cochlear implants, Gibson said.
The Elks also direct their energies and fundraising activities to help communities, especially with respect to the welfare of seniors and children, as well as others in need.
Elks of Canada are celebrating their 100th anniversary this year and the Smithers Elks are celebrating their 81st anniversary.