The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks was founded on the principles of charity, justice, fidelity, and brotherly love. The invitation extends to all, as long as you are dedicated to the cause of charity and community service. For a lifelong Hoosier Helen Chapman giving back to those in need comes second nature.
“I've always been involved in helping with something. I can't even begin to think of when it started. I used to do things because I worked for the School City of Hammond, such as volunteering and working with special education kids because it brought me joy,” Chapman said.
Upon meeting her husband Leland, with whom she happily celebrates 25 years of marriage, Chapman got involved with the Elks.
“I like what the Elks do. The Elks stand for a lot. They support not only our veterans but also our youth organizations,” Chapman said. “Every lodge, every month, every state has its own cause. In Indiana, one of the main things we do is cancer research. If you're going to raise money, you might as well have fun doing it.”
Chapman proudly serves as the Exalted Ruler of Whiting Elks Lodge 1273, where a strong emphasis on service – especially for the youth – leaves a lasting impression.
"We do a safe prom with Whiting High School every year, where we invite a state trooper to come in and talk to the kids,” Chapman said. “They’ve brought in people who have lost family members to drunk driving on prom night, and it really shows the impact. It’s not just about one person – it affects the whole community, the whole family.”
Community outreach and support are not only important to the Elks but also to Chapman and her husband. A true labor of love, Chapman has led a committee for several years that brings approximately 100 recruits from the Great Lakes Naval Station to the Whiting Elks for Christmas. It’s a yearly feast that is not to be missed.
“My husband smokes 150 pounds of beef brisket; that’s kind of our signature thing. The American Veterans Motorcycle Association comes out and donates a lot. They always joke, ‘Oh, we’re not coming for the sailors, we’re coming for Leland’s brisket.’ At the end of the day, we have fun. We have a cause and a purpose to make life better," Chapman said.
When she’s not leading community outreach initiatives and giving back to those in need, Chapman spends time with her loving family. One of her favorite pastimes is playing with her grandkids. She was blessed with an additional grandchild 10 months ago, bringing her even more warmth and happiness.
"Even when I’m long gone, I’d like to see the Elks continue because I believe in what they do. The people in the Elks genuinely care about others. I just want to do something special for my lodge and our military to show these kids that there are other people who support them and are proud of them, not just their family,” Chapman said. “I’ve seen a lot of great things happen, like when we orchestrated a fundraiser for the families who lost their homes in fires here in Whiting. It’s just Elks being Elks, doing what we do. It’s good to be an Elk.”
Looking for fellowship? Visit Whiting Elks Lodge 1273 at 1521 119th St. The lodge is open to members every Friday from 6 to 11 p.m. Meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, starting at 7 p.m. Visit the Facebook page for more information.