Our Mission Statement
To inculcate the principles of Charity, Justice, Brotherly & Sisterly Love and Fidelity; to recognize a belief in God; to promote the welfare and enhance the happiness of its Members; to quicken the spirit of American patriotism; to cultivate good fellowship; to perpetuate itself as a fraternal organization, and to provide for its government, the Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the World will serve the people and communities through benevolent programs, demonstrating that Elks care and Elks share.
From Troubled Student to Dedicated Educator: A Powerful Reminder of Public Education’s Impact
In this inspiring piece for the Michigan Education Association, Justin Harper, an Elk member, reflects on his personal journey from a struggling, often-in-trouble student who dropped out at 16 to becoming a special education teacher in the very district where he once struggled. Harper shares how key educators believed in him, helped him grow, and eventually shaped his path back into the classroom — now as an empathetic teacher committed to nurturing the potential in every student. His story is a testament to the transformative power of support, patience, and public education.
Upcoming Events
ELKS FIRST FRIDAYS
Elks First Fridays at the James L. Crawford Elks Lodge is a relaxed monthly social gathering bringing the community together for a night of music, food, drinks, and fellowship. Held the first Friday of each month from 8:00 PM to Midnight, it’s the perfect place to unwind, connect with friends, and meet new people in a welcoming atmosphere.No cover charge — just good vibes and great company.
Looking To Host An Event?
Host your next event at the Ann Arbor Elks Lodge #322, home to one of the best porches and views in Ann Arbor. Tucked away in the heart of the city, the Ann Arbor Elks Lodge #322 offers a cozy, intimate setting with a porch view that’s hard to beat—ideal for gatherings where atmosphere matters more than size.
James L. Crawford
Elks Lodge #322
220 Sunset Rd.
Ann Arbor, MI
(734) 761-7172
What We Do
All across the nation our Elk State Associations sponsor programs to build stronger communities by assisting those in need through scholarships, medical research, recreational opportunities, and lots more.- Black History Recognition Luncheon- Juneteenth Celebration (NAACP)- Michigan State Association Conference- Mid-Autumn Conference- National Grand Lodge Session- Region 3 Conference and Oratorical Contest- Adopt-A-Family (Holiday Season)- Homeless Shelter Donations- Community Food Pantry Drive
Our History
Fraternal organizations proved popular among African Americans for the same reasons that they proved popular among other Americans: providing financial, spiritual, and emotional aid, they were invaluable to the communities they served. African American fraternities, however, had the added purpose of improving self- esteem. First instituted during slavery, the membership, rituals, uniforms, and offices of these societies generated a respect not available outside of the lodges. Fully committed to economic, personal, and academic advancement, fraternal organizations have played a vital role in every phase of the African American experience.One such organization is the Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks of the World (IBPOEW). Currently boasting 500,000 members in over 1,500 lodges worldwide, the IBPOEW is the largest Black fraternal organization in the world. The IBPOEW's stated purpose is "that the welfare and happiness of its members be promoted and enhanced, that nobleness of soul and goodness of heart be cultivated, that the principles or Charity, Justice, Brotherly/Sisterly Love and Fidelity be inculcated, that its members and their families be assisted and protected, [and] that the spirit of patriotism be enlivened and exalted."
The Improved Benevolent Protective Order of Elks of the World was granted a copyright as an organization on September 28, 1898, in Cincinnati, Ohio. A Pullman porter, Arthur James Riggs, and Benjamin Franklin Howard, who were both members of another fraternal organization, met in that city, and they discovered that they both had dreams of forming an Elks organization for people of color. Their dreams and plans were realized when the first Lodge, Alpha Lodge No. 1, was organized in Cincinnati, as a result of the efforts of these two men. As the Elks prevailed, the organization struggled against many racist attitudes and legal efforts to deny the existence of the Improved Benevolent Protective Order of Elks of the World.On June 13, 1902, Emma Virginia Kelly organized the Daughters of Elks in Norfolk, Virginia. This group was later adopted by the Grand Lodge and became an auxiliary body to the Brothers of Elks. The first Temple was Norfolk Temple No. 1, Norfolk, Virginia.A few of the major departments of the Elks are the Grand Lodge Education Department, History Department, Medical Department, Veterans Affairs Department, National Youth Department, Civil Liberties Department, Antlered Guard Department, and the Hobson R. Reynolds National Shrine Department. Through the efforts of its members and various departments, the Elks sponsor extensive educational scholarship programs, youth summer computer literacy camps, and children with special needs, parades and unequaled community service activities throughout the world.
Lodge Officers
Grand District Deputy Presiding - Lonnie MarshallExalted Ruler - Willie J. CampbellFinancial Secretary - Gregory L. PeeTreasurer & Rental Property Management - Daryl CampbellEsteemed Leading Knight & House Manager - Bryan CampbellEsteemed Loyal Knight & Special Events/Future Ventures Coordinator - Andre WatsonEsteemed Lecturing Knight & Kitchen Manager - Peter DeLoachEsquire, Assistant to the Exalted Ruler & Daughters Liaison - Dale NewmanInner Guard, House Committee & Community Liaison - Raymond SpearsRecording Secretary, Assistant to the Exalted Ruler, Trustee, Yr. 1 - Rolando EcclestonTrustee, Yr. 1 - John Bellows, Sr.Trustee, Yr. 2 - Darren KnoxTrustee Chairman, Yr. 3 - James WesleyTrustee, Yr. 2 - Calvin CupittLegal Advisor - Nick RoumelChaplin - Ellis Parks
A200 Legacy Project
ELKS FIRST FRIDAYS
Kick off your month with great company, great music, and a welcoming community atmosphere at Elks First Fridays! Held on the first Friday of each month at the historic James L. Crawford Elks Lodge, this relaxed social gathering is the perfect way to unwind, connect with friends, and meet new faces from across the Ann Arbor community.From 8:00 PM to Midnight, the lodge comes alive with a vibrant mix of music, food, drinks, and conversation.Expect good vibes, laughter around the tables, and the kind of atmosphere that makes the Elks Lodge a cornerstone of fellowship and community. Grab a drink, enjoy the music, and spend the evening among neighbors and friends.Best of all, there’s no cover charge, so you can simply show up and enjoy the night.🎶 Featuring:
• Music
• Drinks
• Community fellowshipBring a friend, bring your good energy, and come experience why First Fridays at the Elks are becoming a favorite monthly tradition in Ann Arbor.
House Music For All
House Music For All is a weekly dance party celebrating inclusive vibes, deep grooves, and community connection—happening every Thursday from 8:00 PM to Midnight. There’s no cover, just great music, open energy, and a welcoming dance floor for everyone.Hosted by DJ Batz and Amateur Waifu, the night features a rotating lineup of DJs each week, bringing fresh sounds and styles while staying rooted in the spirit of house music. From soulful and classic house to modern, dance-forward selections, the focus is always on movement, connection, and joy.Whether you’re a longtime house head or just looking for a place to unwind, dance, and feel the music, House Music For All lives up to its name—everyone is welcome.- Thursday's
- 8:00 PM – MidnightNo Cover | Great Music | Dancing EncouragedCome as you are, bring your friends, and lose yourself in the rhythm!!!
⚠️ NOTE: House Music For All is off on the first Thursday of every month. ⚠️
JAMES L. CRAWFORD ELKS LODGE #322 EVENT CALENDAR
Membership Inquiries
To be eligible for membership in the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, you must be a citizen of the United States over the age of 21 who believes in God (nondenominational and open to all religions & beliefs).You can be sponsored by any member in good standing from any lodge in the country. You'll also need two other Elks who will be your references. The Elk who proposes you for membership will provide you with a copy of the Membership Application, or will email you a link to the online version of the form. Please follow all instructions and answer all questions. If applying via hard copy, please return your completed application to the Lodge Secretary.Your application will be read at a regular Lodge meeting. It will then be forwarded to the Investigating Committee, who will call you and set up a time for you and your sponsor to meet with the committee so that they can interview you.After the interview is concluded, the committee will report to the Lodge concerning your membership. The members will be given a notice not less than 10 days nor more than two months before the vote will be taken.When the vote is concluded, you will be notified and asked to present yourself and your spouse for indoctrination. During indoctrination, you will learn more about the Order's programs and charities. You will also be told during the program the date you will be initiated.After initiation as an Elk, you can take part in all meetings and social functions of the Lodge.If for any reason your application is rejected, you can submit a new application for membership after six months from the date of rejection.
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