Year established as a nonprofit: 1896

What does your organization do for Ouray County?

Our lodge gives to the community in the form of grants and scholarships and through events for the veterans and children in the county. We traditionally have hosted Thanksgiving dinner, Easter egg hunts, and other events for the community, too.

What do you list as your greatest accomplishments in 2023?

In 2023, we have given $2,000 in grants and $10,500 in scholarships to students from the two county high schools. We fed 106 community members with our Community Turkey Dinner. We also will have Santa deliver gifts and candy to approximately 50 homes this year.

What are some goals or projects you have planned for 2024?

We now have two funds for scholarships. The Rossi Fund allows for two $2,500 grants to Ouray High School seniors. The Wesseling Fund will offer $3,500 to two different students seeking trade school educations. We plan on continuing all of the events from 2023 including Veterans’ Bingo and Santa Delivers.

Tell us how the community can help you do more here in Ouray County.

The community can support us by attending events. Come and play bingo or sign up to volunteer for Easter or the Fourth of July festivities. Visit ourayelks.org for more information on how to sign up, join the lodge or donate.

Thanks to Jill Scheu for providing this information.