On May 10, 2023, the Sanford Elks Lodge #1470 held their 51st annual Youth Leadership Banquet to honor local youth. The event was attended by well over 100 parents and students from the Sanford area, as well as dignitaries from the Maine Elks Association including MEA State President Sandi Anderson. The Lodge presented awards to the winners of the Americanism Essay Contest with the theme of “What is your American Dream?” The Lodge also presented awards for the Lodge’s Drug Awareness contests, including the coloring contest, poster contest, essay contest, and video contest with the theme of “One Pill Can Kill.” In addition, the Lodge recognized the Lodge’s State Soccer Shoot champion, as well as Eagle Scouts and Girl Scout Silver Award recipients.

Much of the evening focused on local students. The top 50 ranked students at the Sanford High School attended and were recognized, with the top students receiving the Elks Student of the Year Award. The Lodge also presented the Elks Junior Student of the Year Award to Junior High School students. Top students were also recognized from the Sanford Regional Technical Center. The event serves as an example of what Elk Lodges do in their communities to support our nation’s youth. Below is a video of the event.

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