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B.P.O.E. • Phoenix Lodge #335 “Elks Care, Elks Share.”

Elks Youth Week

Honoring and encouraging Arizona’s youth—first week of May, every year.

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Elks Youth Week celebration

About Elks Youth Week

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks dedicates the first week of May to honoring America’s Junior Citizens. Phoenix Elks Lodge #335 celebrates with a full week of ceremonies, student recognition, and family events that inspire leadership, citizenship, and community pride.

State of Arizona Proclamation

We’re grateful to Governor Katie Hobbs for proclaiming Elks Arizona Youth Week, recognizing the importance of encouraging our youth through mentorship, recognition, and service.

  • Honors the achievements and promise of Arizona’s young people
  • Encourages guidance, inspiration, and opportunities for citizenship
  • Affirms the Elks’ long‑standing commitment to youth leadership
Download Proclamation (JPG)
Arizona Youth Week Proclamation

Youth Week — At a Glance

Ceremonies & Celebrations
  • Americanism Essay Awards — winners announced
  • Ice Cream Social — fellowship for families & students
  • Scholarship Awards Dinner — honoring recipients
  • Elks Youth & Area Students of the Year — capstone ceremony
How to Participate
  • RSVP for events and ceremonies
  • Nominate students and educators
  • Volunteer to help host and serve
  • Sponsor awards, meals, or supplies

Featured Youth Week Events

Youth Awards Ceremony
Youth Awards Ceremony

Celebrating academic excellence, leadership, service—and the bright future ahead.

Ice Cream Social
Ice Cream Social

A sweet celebration for students, families, and supporters during Youth Week.

Scholarship Awards Dinner
Scholarship Awards Dinner

Honoring scholarship recipients and their families with a formal evening of recognition.

This Year’s Youth Awards & Teacher of the Year

We had the honor of recognizing 22 outstanding youth from 14 schools, plus:

  • Sea Cadet of the Year
  • Scout of the Year
  • Cub Scout of the Year
  • Girl Scout of the Year
  • Teacher of the Year
  • School Administrator of the Year
Special Thanks
  • ✨ Jagaar Halverson and Rep. David Schweikert for heartfelt acknowledgments and Congressional certificates
  • ✨ Governor Katie Hobbs for proclaiming Youth Week in Arizona
  • ✨ Our 2025–2026 Lodge Officers and volunteers who made the night possible
  • ✨ Sea Cadets, Antlers leaders, and everyone who helped coordinate the program
Youth awards ceremony Honorees group photo

Get Involved

Nominate • Volunteer • Sponsor

Help us celebrate Youth Week—submit nominations, lend a hand, or sponsor awards and meals.

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Photo Highlights

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