Dear Members of the Indiana Elks Association,
It is my honor to serve as your State President. As we begin this year together, I embrace the motto that will guide us: Powerful in Purpose.
Keith and I are proud to represent Indiana as First Gentleman and State President, and we are excited to begin our tenure in these roles. We look forward to visiting all of our fantastic lodges across the state and meeting the members who make our organization strong.
For more than 30 years I have served our community as a teacher, coach, and advisor to youth — a privilege that has deepened my belief in mentoring, service, and investing in the next generation. Keith’s 40 years of dedication to public service as an Indiana State Trooper reflects the same commitment to protecting and uplifting our neighbors. Together, we bring a lifetime of service experience to the work of the Elks.
Our purpose this year is clear and compassionate. We will focus our energy and resources on raising money for breast cancer research specifically through the Vera Bradley Foundation and IU Simon Cancer Center — partnerships that will advance prevention, treatment, and survivorship for Hoosiers and beyond. Equally important is a renewed commitment to servant leadership; Elks lead by example by serving with humility and putting others’ needs first.
How you can help:
– Organize or support local fundraisers and awareness events that donate proceeds to the IU Simon Cancer Center and the Purdue University Cancer Research Center.
– Promote education and early-detection messaging in your communities. – Lead with service: recruit volunteers, mentor youth, and collaborate with local health and civic partners.
– Share your lodge’s successes so we can amplify effective ideas statewide.
Together, united by the values of charity, justice, and brotherly love, we will transform compassion into action — raising vital funds for cancer research, strengthening our lodges, and mentoring the next generation of leaders. Join me and Keith in this decisive year: bring your ideas, your hands, and your hearts to every fundraiser, lodge visit, and community outreach. When we stand Powerful in Purpose, our collective effort will create real hope, measurable progress, and a lasting legacy for Hoosiers everywhere.
Yours in Fidelity,
Angie O’Donnell
State President Indiana Elks Association
