Christmas in July Raises More Than $2,000 for the Dictionary Program
Submitted by Jeff Beasley, Esteemed Loyal Knight
During the first annual Christmas in July charity event, members, volunteers, sponsors, and community partners raised more than $2,000, with over $1,000 directly benefiting the Elks National Dictionary Program — helping place dictionaries into the hands of local students.
More than 100 people attended the evening, enjoying great food, music, dancing, laughter, and fellowship while supporting a meaningful cause. The event was made even more special through the support of our community partners, including Miss Arizona USA Kaitlyn Humphrey and Desert Car Care of Cave Creek, who helped raise awareness for the Dictionary Program and the charitable work of the Elks. Their involvement reflects the strong partnerships Phoenix Elks Lodge #335 continues to build throughout our community.
The Dictionary Committee did an outstanding job organizing the event from start to finish. Under the leadership of Chair Stephanie Beasley, the committee created a festive Christmas celebration in the middle of July that was welcoming, fun, and meaningful for everyone who attended.
Reflecting on the evening, Stephanie shared: “This was truly a team effort. From everyone who baked treats, donated, decorated, volunteered, attended, and supported the event, thank you. We met our goals while creating an evening where our members and community came together to celebrate, laugh, and support local children. That’s what Elkdom is all about, and I couldn’t be more proud of everyone who helped make this event such a success.”
A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who volunteered their time, donated baked goods, purchased tickets, sponsored the event, decorated, served, entertained, or simply attended to support the cause. Every contribution helped make the evening a success.
Originally published in the September 2026 Tracks newsletter of Phoenix Elks Lodge #335. Read the full issue (PDF).
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