Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks

2025 Americanism Essay Contest

The Elks annual Americanism Essay Contest is open to US students in grades 5 through 8. 

Prizes up to $1000 are awarded to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners in each grade.

“What Does Service To Your Country Mean To You?”

The rules are simple:

  1. At the time of the contest, eligible participants must be Students enrolled in one of these four divisions: I—5th grade; II—6th grade; III—7th grade; or IV—8th grade.
  2. Essay length is not to exceed 300 words.
  3. Essay must be typed or legibly printed in ink. Also, Essay must be submitted as written (or typed) by the entrant.
  4. Essay must be submitted for judging to the Elks Lodge nearest to the address of the entrant.
  5. Participant must be identified by name, grade, school attending and sponsoring Elks Lodge on the Essay.

Click here for full details and rules.

If your school is listed below, you can submit your essay here. If not, please follow the instructions on the Grand Lodge page.

Essays must be received by December 15th, 2025

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