Grants

DAP Grant Programs

The National Drug Awareness Program offers several matching grant programs to help State Associations acquire essential equipment and materials for their outreach efforts. These grants make it more affordable for states to expand their community engagement capabilities.

Who Can Apply?

National DAP grants are available to State Chairpersons only. Lodge Chairs seeking grant funding should work through their State DAP Chairperson.

Available Grant Programs

Elroy Costume Grant

A matching grant program to help states purchase an Elroy Elk mascot costume. The State Association contributes $1,000 toward the purchase price, and the National DAP covers the remaining cost.

Learn more about Elroy Grants

Trailer Artwork Grant

Provides up to $500 or 50% of the cost (whichever is less) for trailer wrap/artwork on existing DAP trailers. This grant helps states create professional, eye-catching mobile outreach units.

Learn more about Trailer Wrap Grants

Tent Grant

A matching grant program for DAP event tents. The State Association contributes $400 toward the purchase price, making it easier to establish a professional presence at community events.

Learn more about Tent Grants

Important Information

How to Apply

All grant applications should be submitted by email to:

Frank Burr Email: [email protected]

The general process for all grants:

Submit Request - Email your grant request to Frank Burr
Receive Confirmation - You’ll receive confirmation or denial based on availability and timing
Submit Payment - Upon approval, follow instructions to submit your matching contribution
Receive Equipment - Your equipment will be shipped once payment is received

State-Level Grant Management

While National DAP grants are administered at the state level through State Chairpersons, many states also operate their own internal grant or funding programs. Each state is free to manage their process as they see fit, but all requests ultimately roll up to the State Chairperson for the Elks DAP program.

How It Works

Lodge Chair → State DAP Chairperson → National DAP

Lodges submit requests to their State DAP Chairperson
State Chairpersons evaluate requests and manage state-level priorities
State Chairpersons apply to National DAP for matching grants

Recommendations for State Chairs

Consider establishing a clear process for your state. Here are some best practices:

Create a Simple Request Process

Provide a standard form or email template for lodges to request equipment
Set clear deadlines aligned with the Elk Year (April 1 - March 31)
Communicate available resources at state meetings

Establish Evaluation Criteria

Consider prioritizing requests based on:

Demonstrated need - Does the lodge actively participate in DAP events?
Reach - How many schools or community events will the equipment support?
Geographic coverage - Are you spreading resources across the state?
Past performance - Has the lodge utilized previous equipment effectively?

Manage Your State’s Equipment

Maintain an inventory of state-owned DAP equipment (Elroy costumes, tents, trailers)
Consider a lending/sharing program for equipment between lodges
Track where equipment is located and how often it’s used

Budget Planning

Plan grant applications early in the Elk Year
Remember: grants do not roll over to the next year
Coordinate with your State Association on matching fund availability

Your Process, Your Way

These are recommendations, not requirements. Design a process that works for your state’s size, culture, and needs. The goal is ensuring DAP resources reach the communities that need them.

Communication is Key

Keep your lodges informed about:

What equipment is available at the state level
How to request equipment or funding
Timelines and deadlines
Success stories from other lodges in your state