Chicopee Elks Lodge helps out other non-profits

April 2, 2020 | G. Michael Dobbs
news@thereminder.com

CHICOPEE – One non-profit organization wants to help other non-profit organizations in the area.

Brett Vottero, the treasurer of the Chicopee Lodge of Elks, explained to Reminder Publishing, the Elks’ Granby Road facility is large in size and the Elks have reached out to other non-profits to offer space for events.

“There is so much space here and it’s not being used,” he said.  While the Elks have worked with non-profits in the past, Vottero said the lodge wants to emphasize this activity more at this time.

He pointed out at the organization’s height the lodge had 2,000 members. Now it has 400.

Walking around the lodge, Vottero pointed out various venues. There is the large ballroom upstairs that was set up for an Irish Night. He pointed out the room has a very large dance floor in this area.

Downstairs is another area where spaghetti suppers are frequently served and several other areas that could be used as offices. In fact, Vottero noted, the Chicopee Education Association had an office there for years.

On Tuesdays, the lodge cannot be booked when it offers a bingo night in both the upstairs and downstairs locations. Saturdays are frequently reserved for paying social events, such as Jack and Jill parties.

For example, a non-profit wishing to raise money could have a spaghetti supper at the Elks. The Elks buy the food, cook and serve the dinner and the non-profit needs only to pay for the food and supplies used. The labor and space are free.

So far, a number of organizations have taken the Elks up on their offer. CISV International – Greater Springfield Chapter is one of those groups, as is Building Bridges, the Chicopee Girl Scouts, Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen and the Miracle League of Western Massachusetts.

Helping non-profits fits into the goals of the Elks, especially helping children, veterans and senior citizens, Vottero explained.

To learn more call 592-1849 or email the lodge at BPOE1849@gmail.com.

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