On Sept. 18, Viera Elks Lodge #2817 welcomed Southeast Central District Vice President, Paul Diaz, and his wife, Donna, for dinner. There were more than 140 members and guests present and the theme was “Support your Team.” As a part of the festivities, Diaz assisted Jerry Harrington, Exalted Ruler, in presenting two donations to local organizations. A check for $3,500 from the lodge’s Elks National Foundation Gratitude and Beacon grants was presented to Tara Pagliarini, executive director of Family Promise of Brevard. Family Promise of Brevard works to end family homelessness in Brevard County by collaborating with the community to provide families with support and resources they need to put themselves on a path toward long-term housing stability. The second check presentation was for $2,000 ($1,500 from the lodge’s Elks National Foundation Gratitude Grant and $500 from the lodge’s charity account) to Brevard Schools Foundation, a nonprofit organization designed to match community resources with the needs of public schools. It is funded and supported by local businesses and charitable organizations.
Pictured are Kyle Nylander, Brevard Schools Foundation board member; Janice Keyshawn, Brevard Schools Foundation president; Jerry Harrington, Exalted Ruler; Paul Diaz, District Vice President; and Bill Orblych, PDD, Lodge Secretary.