Strategic Plan for Long-Term Relevance, Recognition & Growth

Strengthening Community Presence

Active Engagement: Continue to regularly participate in community events, fairs, and local activities to raise awareness of the organization and its initiatives. Be sure each lodge is tooting their own horns on social media.
Partnerships: Continue to build strong partnerships with local businesses, schools, and nonprofits to collaborate on community projects and events, showcasing the Elks’ commitment to service. Increase the publicity at local lodge locations so many know the impact of our great organization.
Visibility Campaigns: Launch community-focused campaigns highlighting the positive impact of the Elks in areas such as education, health, and veteran and community outreach.

Enhancing Member Involvement

Membership Diversity: Consider piloting membership drives that promote inclusivity by actively recruiting members from diverse backgrounds, ensuring the organization reflects the communities it serves.
Leadership Development: Engage in piloting leadership training and development programs for members to empower them to take on active roles within the organization and the community.
Mentorship Programs: Pilot retention driven mentorship initiatives to engage new members (under 2 years) and also retain seasoned members, fostering a sense of belonging and commitment.

Elks Champion Program: Volunteer recognition awards at the State and National level

Adapting to Changing Needs

Community Needs Assessment: Regularly conduct assessments to understand evolving community needs and adjust programs and initiatives accordingly.
Flexible Programming: Develop flexible programs that can adapt to current trends and issues, such as mental health support or environmental sustainability.
Feedback Mechanisms: Establish channels for members and community stakeholders to provide feedback on initiatives and suggest improvements.

Building a Strong Online Presence

Digital Marketing Strategy: Utilize social media, email newsletters, video/podcasts between lodges to share success stories, coordinate friendly lodge vs lodge contests,  and community involvement.
Online Engagement: Create virtual events, webinars, and online community forums to engage with members and the community, making some accessible to all.
Content Creation: Regularly produce engaging content, including articles, videos, and podcasts, that highlight the Elks’ activities, community impact, member and families’ stories.

Fostering Community Leadership

Local Leadership Initiatives: Encourage local lodges to take the lead in addressing specific community issues, empowering them to make decisions and implement changes.
Recognition Programs: Establish awards or recognition programs to honor outstanding members and community partners, enhancing the organization’s visibility and reputation.
Community Advisory Boards: Form advisory boards comprising community leaders and stakeholders to provide insights and guidance on local initiatives.

Long-Term Sustainability Planning

Strategic Fundraising: Develop a comprehensive fundraising strategy that includes grants, donations, and sponsorships to ensure the financial health of the organization.
Endowment Fund: Consider establishing an endowment fund to secure long-term financial stability and support ongoing programs and initiatives.
Annual Reviews: Conduct annual reviews of the organization’s goals, strategies, and performance to ensure alignment with the changing landscape and community needs.

Implementation Timeline

5-Year Focus: Strengthen community presence, enhance member involvement, consistent lodge and Exalted Ruler support programming, build a strong online presence through technology sites and social media to advance and support the initiatives of the Florida State Elks Association.

10-Year Focus: Add a virtual Elks lodge. Adapt to changing needs, foster community leadership, and ensure long-term sustainability.

20-Year Vision: 250+ Florida Elks lodge sites, Florida Elks Association recognized as a premier organization recognized as a major Florida volunteer impact organization for volunteer hours, commitment to service, community involvement, and positive impact for children, families, and veterans.

Measurement of Success

Community Recognition: Monitor community perception through surveys and feedback to assess the Elks’ reputation and feedback from community advisory boards. Tell our stories everywhere we can.

Membership Growth: Track membership numbers and diversity to ensure ongoing engagement, representation and promotion on a variety of social media platforms. Share our testimonials every chance we get.

Program Impact: Evaluate the success and participation rates of community programs and initiatives regularly. Brag about our impact so more people want to be part of the Elks.

Sustainability Metrics: Assess financial health through fundraising success, endowment growth, and budget management.

By implementing these strategies, the Florida Elks Association will remain in the position as a premier and relevant organization in every community, ensuring our work, impact and legacy for many many years to come.

Advance the positive impact of the Florida Elks Association. Focus on enhancing community engagement, increasing visibility, fostering partnerships, and ensuring sustainable growth.