Greetings members of Lacey #2518 what a wonderful weekend our Antlers and Advisors had

Greetings from Lacey Elks Lodge #2518. Our Antler advisors recently attended the annual NJ Elks Peer Leadership conference this past weekend. Where they donated their time to educate themselves on what our youth has to offer. To their surprise, they sat through spectacular seminars and keynote speakers, which encouraged and touched the lives of our young adults. There were over 500 students in attendance, and they all left being a better version of themselves. I left being a better version of myself.

They came to realize that the best of the best of our youth still suffer from mental, physical, drug, alcohol, sexual abuse, anxiety, suicidal tendencies, and bullying. This should not be tolerated. They heard speakers and students talk about everything they have gone through and are going through so far in life. They were brave not only to attend the conference, but also brave to stand up and speak. The messages are clearly there. "We" need to help more and acknowledge our youth.

If you, or you know of any students that are troubled and are looking for answers, please ask. We are here for everyone. Simply acknowledging their struggles is the first step. Telling them they are worth something in life and loving them is the key.

For more information, contact our Antlers Chairperson Vinnie Sammartino 908-227-6512or reach out to NJ Elks Peer Leadership.