Orange Coast District Elks Support Veterans Through Year-Round Service
by: Sandy Gruzdis
Published: January 13, 2026
MISSION VIEJO...The Orange Coast District Elks demonstrated an unwavering commitment to veterans throughout 2025, hosting monthly events that supported veterans, active-duty personnel, reservists, and Gold Star families across Orange County and beyond.
Each month featured hands-on programs designed to foster healing, connection, and community. These included fishing trips, hunting outings, equine therapy, Stand Down events, food distributions, car shows, clam digs, lobster trips, Army–Navy watch parties, and the District’s impactful Camp Fire Therapy sessions — confidential gatherings that encourage open conversation and peer support among veterans.
Through strong partnerships with local Elks lodges, veteran-focused nonprofits, community businesses, and the Elks National Veterans Service Commission, the District raised vital funds and engaged hundreds of veterans in programs that promote wellness, camaraderie, and long-term support. These efforts reflect the core values of the Elks: charity, justice, brotherly love, and fidelity.
Looking ahead to 2026, the Orange District Elks National Veterans Service members lead by David Perry (USN Retired) and Christian Werthmuller (USA Retired) plan to expand their most successful programs, offering even more opportunities for veterans to connect and for community members to serve. The Orange Coast District includes lodges in Mission Viejo, Orange, Santa Ana, Garden Grove, Newport Beach, Buena Park, Fullerton and Huntington Beach.
Community members interested in supporting veterans through service and fellowship are encouraged to learn more about membership with the Mission Viejo–Saddleback Valley Elks Lodge #2444, where volunteers continue to play a vital role in strengthening veteran outreach and community impact.
The Mission Viejo-Saddleback Valley Elks Lodge #2444 is celebrating over 52 years of service to Saddleback Valley Communities. It is one of 8 lodges in the Orange Coast District of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPOE) whose headquarters is in Chicago, Illinois. The BPOE is a charitable organization with a 157-year history of giving. For information regarding Elks programs or Elks membership, call 949 830-3557.