State Chairs

Elks DAP State Chairs play a critical role in mobilizing local resources and volunteers to deliver impactful drug awareness programs. Their leadership ensures the program's success at the state level, adapting national goals to local needs.

The State Chair is essential in leading the Elks Drug Awareness Program within their state, tasked with tailoring strategies to local needs, overseeing district activities, and ensuring program success in alignment with the Grand Lodge Statutes. They manage annual reporting, budgeting, program development, material distribution, training, and maintain communication with the National Director to ensure a cohesive and effective state-wide DAP initiative.

The Role and Responsibilities of the State Chair

The State Chair plays a pivotal role in the implementation of the Elks Drug Awareness Program (DAP) within their respective state. Their responsibilities involve developing a unique methodology tailored to the specific needs of the state's program. The State Chair is accountable to the State Association President and the State Association for the successful execution of this program. An integral part of their duty is to oversee the activities of the District Chair and ensure the implementation of a drug-free program in each Lodge within the state, as guided by Section 13.041 of the Grand Lodge Statutes.

The Annual Reporting Procedure

An important annual task for the State Chair involves the completion of the DAP Statistical Report following each year's training session. This report should encompass information detailing their involvement with community action groups or coalitions. The State Chair is required to send this report to the National Director of the program by the first of September each year.

Budgeting for the Drug Awareness Program

The State Chair, in collaboration with the District Chair, is responsible for developing a budget for the DAP. The purpose of this budget is to ensure that sufficient funds are available to conduct a successful program. This budget should be submitted to the state association for inclusion in the state's overall budget.

Developing the State Program

The State Chair is charged with the development of the DAP for the state. Their role involves ensuring that each Lodge in the state is conducting a program that adheres to the directions of the state guidelines. An important part of this role involves assembling a list of professional speakers who are willing to discuss the dangers of substance abuse at meetings and training sessions. These professionals may include doctors, lawyers, law enforcement personnel, and others who have had direct contact with substance abusers. This list should be shared with the members of the state committee.

Overseeing Material Usage and Distribution

The State Chair is responsible for ordering and monitoring the use of materials requested by members of the state committee. They will approve and transmit orders for materials to the appropriate location in accordance with the materials guidelines of the National Elks DAP. The allotment of materials set aside for the State Chair should be made available to supplement a Lodge’s allotment for special programs that necessitate more than the usual Lodge allotment.

Training Development and Delivery

The State Chair is tasked with the development and delivery of DAP training to each Lodge and District as needed. They should coordinate this training with the National DAP Directors, ensuring that the latest information is readily available. The State Chair may call upon the National Directors to assist in the development and delivery of this training.

Communication with National Director

The State Chair must maintain regular contact with the National Director throughout the year. They should send copies of letters and schedules for training and special programs to the National Director, keeping them informed and updated. This practice helps maintain transparency and coordination at all levels of the program.