Who We Are
CHEA – The California – Hawaii Elks Association is a charitable organization serving children with disabilities since 1950.
With 162 Lodges in 19 Districts (including the Island of the Philippines), the California-Hawaii
Elks Association CHEA serves disabled children, veterans, and our youth in a wide range of activities. We are a proud organization with roots back to 1868 and thousands of Elks, who have not only helped millions of people but are a social organization that enjoys the company of other Elks at our lodges where our meals and beverages support our growth and the community.
B.P.O.E. stands for The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (or as they are affectionately known, the Best People On Earth). Elks are American Citizens who want to save its great values; who love others and want to make sure they are healthy and happy; and who love life and want to contribute to it, as well as to share it. As a member, we find there is nothing better than serving our community through the various activities and charities supported by our local Elks Lodge.
The California-Hawaii Elks Association (CHEA) is best known for its support of children with disabilities. Among these pages you will find many heartwarming stories and videos that relate to our Major Project, often referred to as The Purple Pig. The Purple Pig is the fundraising arm of this charitable work and serves as a reminder to the membership that our greatest joy is in giving to and helping others. Whether you help through the various support methods such as our BLT Legacy Giving Program, regular monthly donations, or filling the Purple Pig with the “A Coin A Day so they can Walk, Talk, See and Play” there are many ways to support the children and their families who may have had little hope without the CHEA intervention.
The California-Hawaii Elks Major Project, Inc.
Helping Children with Disabilities Since 1950
While each state has its own Major Project, CHEA is working to help kids with disabilities. This unique program funds 32 paid Therapists and Pediatric Vision Screeners, hired by CHEMPI, to help children with disabilities when no other organizations can or will. These CHEMPI Therapists and Pediatric Vision Screeners travel, sometimes great distances, to help children get care they need.
Every contribution reflects the Association’s belief that the greatest joy comes from giving.
Veterans Support
The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks remains steadfast in its pledge:
“So long as there are veterans, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will never forget them.”
Through dedicated programs and hands-on service, the California-Hawaii Elks Association provides meaningful support to veterans and their families.
