Lodge 1709 operates as a membership-based fraternal organization rather than a restaurant or event venue. Prospective members should know upfront that the lodge does not currently offer meals or large-scale public events, which keeps the focus squarely on brotherhood and community service.
Core activities include participation in Elks National Foundation programs, support for local veterans through the Elks Veterans Committee, and youth initiatives such as the Elks Scholar Awards and Hoop Shoot free-throw competition. Members also benefit from access to the broader BPOE network, connecting them to lodges and resources across the United States.
Membership in Lodge 1709 is open to American citizens who believe in God and are in good standing. The application process is straightforward, and the small membership size means new members are genuinely known and welcomed rather than lost in a crowd.