April 1, 2026

Brothers and Sisters,

Thank you for the trust you’ve placed in me by electing me, Exalted Ruler. It is an honor to serve this lodge and the communities we love. We are at our best when we act as one team.

Teamwork isn’t a slogan — it’s the way we move ideas into action, solve problems, and amplify our impact. This year, I ask each of you to bring teamwork into everything we do: meetings, events, committees, and conversations. Listen first, assume goodwill, and focus on solutions. Small disagreements are natural; pettiness destroys momentum. Let’s leave that behind. If we disagree, let it lead to better ideas, not division.

Our mission is bigger than any one of us. We are committed to the youth in our community through scholarships, programs, and activities that provide young people with guidance and opportunities.

We will strengthen those efforts and look for new ways to reach kids who need mentors, weekend programs, and hope for the future.

We will continue to honor and support our veterans. Many of our neighbors have given so much for our country; we owe them respect, provide help, and a hand when they need it. Expect projects and partnerships aimed at veteran assistance, outreach, and recognition.

We will stand with individuals with special needs and their families. Inclusion means creating programs, events, and accessible spaces so everyone can participate and feel valued. I’ll be asking for ideas and volunteers to make tangible, meaningful improvements. The Elks National Foundation is the engine that funds these priorities. Strong Lodge support of ENF multiplies our reach — scholarships, community grants, disaster relief, and more. I’ll be setting realistic ENF goals this year and asking every member to contribute in whatever way they can. Every dollar, every pledge, every volunteer hour matters. But work and service are not all we are. We are a family, and families enjoy each other’s company. We will plan social events, dinners, theme nights, and casual get-togethers so the Lodge is a place you look forward to visiting.

We will celebrate our successes and share moments of joy. Having fun together strengthens the bonds that let us do the serious work ahead. So, I ask you: Volunteer for at least one committee or event this year. Check the sign-up sheet or speak to any Officer.

Bring one constructive idea to a meeting — for youth, veterans, special needs programming, or fundraising.

Support ENF with a contribution or by helping with fundraising efforts. If you see positivity or negativity, model the alternative: step in, redirect, or bring concerns to leadership privately. Conflicts will happen — we are human. When they do, address them respectfully, seek mediation, and remember our shared purpose.

My door is open. I will listen, act fairly, and work to keep this Lodge focused on respect, progress, and service.

Together, we can make this year a powerful mix of meaningful service and genuine fellowship. Let’s build momentum, put aside our differences, and show our community the best of what Elks can be.

 Thank you for your trust. Let’s get to work — and let’s have a great time doing it.

Fraternally,

Geno Grabinski

Exalted Ruler

248-417-6362

gjgrabin@gmail.com

We’re Be er Together United, we are Unstoppable