WELCOME TO

VirginIa Elks

ASsOCIATION

PROGRAMS

YOUTH CAMP FUNDRAISER

First and foremost, I want to thank my Elks family. It is truly an honor, and I am deeply humbled to stand before you as the newly elected President of the Virginia Elks Association.

The following thoughts are partially drawn from a speech by President Ronald Reagan, adapted here because they resonate strongly with me:

You don’t become President of the Virginia Elks Association—you are given temporary custody of an institution called the presidency, which belongs to every Elk across the great state of Virginia. This position is not a possession but a sacred trust. That trust was built over many years, with many of you and many conventions ago. I have often offered prayers of gratitude for all of you who have placed this faith in my hands.

I will work diligently to fulfill that trust, and I pray that I am worthy of it. I promise to serve to the very best of my ability—for all of you.

I joined the Elks 25 years ago, never imagining I would assume a leadership role. Only a few months later, positions needed to be filled—and I stepped up. It began with rescuing some DAP coloring books that were headed for the trash; I delivered them to a local school instead. From there, I became the Lodge Newsletter Editor and DAP Chairman, then moved through the officer chairs, eventually serving as Exalted Ruler and District Deputy.

During my time as Esquire to the District Deputy, I married the love of my life, Catherine. I stepped away from many Elks activities to focus on our time together. After her passing on December 6, 2023, and with the knowledge that she wanted me to continue serving, I returned to my Elks family.

As I look across our state—I see so many of you who have gone above and beyond, balancing work, family, and community while still finding time to make a difference. Elks Care, Elks Share and BPOE—Best People on Earth are far more than slogans. They are living truths, embodied in the generosity, leadership, and kindness I see in all of you. I’m humbled and inspired to serve among such remarkable individuals.

We all work tirelessly in our communities—volunteering, donating, and serving where needed. Yet sometimes we become so deeply focused on one mission that we overlook others. I believe that stronger communication and greater participation are the keys to even more success. Sharing ideas and working together can spark new initiatives, inspire enthusiasm, and strengthen our membership.

Membership growth is vital to our continued success. Let’s all strive to bring new members into our order and welcome them with open arms.

Our state’s Major Project, the Youth Camp, is something we should all be proud of. Proceeds from the sale of my challenge coins will go directly to supporting it.

Let’s also remember the Elks National Foundation and its incredible work for our communities, state association, and local lodges. The generosity we show to ENF always returns to us many times over.

And finally, let us take a moment to honor our military, our veterans, and our first responders—for their courage, sacrifice, and service.

I look forward to visiting your lodges this year, hearing your ideas, and celebrating the great work you’re doing.

Thank you again for your trust and support. I am truly honored to serve as your President, and I pledge to do so faithfully and wholeheartedly.

Fraternally,

Robert M. Caley

President, Virginia Elks Association 2026–2027