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Elks Spotlight: Arrive Alive — Helping Teens Make Life-Saving Decisions
The Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project is proud to support Arrive Alive, an innovative, hands-on driving safety program that will give Fountain Hills High School students the opportunity to experience the dangers of distracted and impaired driving in a safe, controlled environment.
The program is being brought to Fountain Hills through the efforts of Protect Our Youth Coalition, led by Executive Director Tammy Bell, in partnership with Fountain Hills High School and the Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project. The Elks Youth Project awarded a $2,500 grant to help make this important educational experience possible.
Unlike traditional classroom presentations, Arrive Alive puts students behind the wheel of an actual stationary vehicle equipped with virtual reality technology. Using the steering wheel, accelerator, and brake pedals, students will experience simulated driving conditions that demonstrate how distractions, alcohol, drugs, and certain medications can impair their ability to operate a vehicle safely.
The experience allows students to witness the consequences of delayed reaction times, loss of vehicle control, and potentially dangerous decisions without putting themselves or others at risk. Students observing the simulation can also follow along on an external monitor, extending the educational impact beyond those behind the wheel.
The full-day event is expected to provide approximately 165–185 Fountain Hills High School students with direct simulator experience. The program will also include educational videos, discussions, mock traffic citations, and an opportunity for students to take the S.A.F.E. pledge, Sober and Free of Electronics. Protect Our Youth is also working to incorporate education about the dangers of driving while impaired by opioids and prescription medications.
Keri Washburn, Fountain Hills Elks member and Golden Eagle Park Concession Stand volunteer, believes the hands-on experience will make a lasting difference. "This program will be much more effective than students listening to a lecture. They will have hands-on experience operating a simulated vehicle while under 'impairment.' I feel that this is a unique experience that will impact students' choices for a lifetime."
Fellow Elks member and concession stand volunteer Stacy Braun brings a particularly meaningful perspective, drawing on both his personal experiences and his career in law enforcement. "I remember this coming to my high school decades ago. It made an impression on me that has lasted decades. As an alcoholic in recovery, I think there is some very important information to be had here, if the students are willing to take it in. As a retired member of law enforcement, I have seen the impact impaired driving has on a plethora of people, the drivers, victims, families, and witnesses."
Stacy's powerful words are a reminder that the consequences of impaired driving extend far beyond the person behind the wheel. One poor decision can forever change the lives of families, friends, and an entire community. His firsthand experience reinforces why reaching young drivers before they face these situations is so important.
The Arrive Alive event is anticipated for spring 2027, ideally near Spring Break and prom, when conversations about responsible driving decisions are especially relevant. By allowing students to experience the potential consequences of impaired driving before encountering them in real life, the program hopes to create lessons that will stay with them long after graduation.
A special thank-you goes to Tammy Bell and the Protect Our Youth Coalition for recognizing the importance of this educational opportunity and taking the initiative to bring Arrive Alive to Fountain Hills. Their dedication to youth safety, prevention education, and community collaboration demonstrates how proactive efforts can make a meaningful difference in young people's lives.
The Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project is proud to partner with organizations like Protect Our Youth that are committed to protecting and empowering our local students. Funds raised through the volunteer-operated Golden Eagle Park Concession Stand help make grants like this possible. Thanks to our dedicated Elks members and community volunteers, we can continue supporting programs that not only educate our youth but may ultimately save lives.
Elks Spotlight: Making Math Fun with the Multiplication Masters Challenge
The Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project is proud to support the Multiplication Masters Challenge, an exciting new program designed to help approximately 70 sixth-grade students at Fountain Hills Middle School strengthen their multiplication skills while building confidence and enthusiasm for mathematics.
The program, developed by Resource Teacher Julie Marshall, takes a creative approach to learning by turning multiplication practice into a fun and rewarding challenge. Students will work toward mastering multiplication facts through assessments, friendly competitions, and individual achievement goals.
Rather than relying solely on traditional worksheets and drills, the program will feature a "Wall of Masters," a prize wheel, student recognition, and rewards for reaching milestones. The goal is to make learning multiplication facts something students look forward to while building a strong foundation for more advanced mathematics, including fractions, algebra, and geometry.
The Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project awarded a grant to help fund student incentives, recognition materials, classroom competitions, and an end-of-year celebration. The program will run throughout the 2026–2027 school year, giving students opportunities to improve their skills and celebrate their progress.
Fountain Hills Elks member and Golden Eagle Park Concession Stand volunteer Don Frederick was enthusiastic about the project. "I was excited to see the grant request. Anything to increase awareness and learning of mathematics is wonderful."
Fellow Elks member and concession stand volunteer Adrienne Scott shared that enthusiasm. "This is one of the best grant applications I've seen yet. Math is an integral part of our society, and because of our ever-changing advancements in technology, we have all but lost an important element in thinking for ourselves. I support this project 100%. Well done, FH School District!"
Their enthusiasm reflects the importance of investing in programs that strengthen fundamental academic skills while encouraging students to think independently and develop confidence in their abilities.
A special thank-you goes to Julie Marshall, Resource Teacher at Fountain Hills Middle School, for recognizing a need and taking the initiative to develop the Multiplication Masters Challenge. Her creativity, dedication, and commitment to helping students succeed are exactly what make programs like this so valuable. By transforming an essential math skill into a fun and rewarding experience, Julie is giving students the opportunity to build confidence, celebrate their accomplishments, and develop skills that will benefit them throughout their education.
The Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project is proud to support educators like Julie who go above and beyond to create meaningful learning opportunities for our local students. Funds raised through the volunteer-operated Golden Eagle Park Concession Stand help make grants like this possible. Thank you to Julie for bringing this wonderful idea to life, and to our Elks members and community volunteers whose dedication helps turn great ideas into reality.
Elks Spotlight: Conservation & Sustainability Club Brings Environmental Learning to Life
The Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project has awarded a grant to support the Conservation & Sustainability Club at Fountain Hills Middle School, helping provide students with hands-on environmental learning experiences, field activities, and opportunities they might not otherwise have. Formerly introduced as the Ecosystem and Conservation Awareness project, the program will take environmental education beyond the classroom and give students the chance to learn, explore, serve, and share their knowledge with others.
The program was brought to the Elks through grant applicant Pete McGloin, Fountain Hills Middle School psychologist, with Jessamyn Koss Waldo, STEAM teacher, developing the curriculum that will guide students through a year of hands-on environmental education and exploration.
The club is designed to help students learn about Arizona’s environment while developing an understanding of conservation, sustainability, and responsible stewardship. Throughout the 2026–2027 school year, students will explore three primary areas—Air, Stewardship, and Water—through classroom activities, guest speakers, field experiences, and community service.
The program brings together Fountain Hills Middle School educators, Fountain Hills Elks volunteers, and community partners to create meaningful experiences both inside and outside the classroom. Activities planned throughout the year include wildlife education, hiking and environmental interpretation, park and habitat cleanups, fishing, water conservation education, and lessons focused on Arizona’s natural resources.
Students will also have opportunities to learn directly from organizations and experts working in conservation. Planned experiences include programs involving Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center, OdySea Aquarium, Arizona Game & Fish, and Trout Unlimited.
An important part of the club is learning by doing and learning from one another. Students will not simply hear about conservation; they will participate in activities that demonstrate how individual choices and community involvement can make a difference. As they gain knowledge and experience, students will also have opportunities to mentor and teach other students, helping them develop leadership skills while extending what they have learned beyond the club itself.
Whether cleaning up a natural area, learning about native wildlife, studying water resources, or participating in a fishing and habitat experience, students will be encouraged to become active stewards of their environment. Fountain Hills Elks volunteers will also play an important role throughout the program, assisting with classroom sessions and field experiences and sharing the Elks’ commitment to youth, community service, and conservation.
The Conservation & Sustainability Club is being brought to life through the dedication of Pete McGloin and Jessamyn Koss Waldo. Pete’s efforts in developing the grant opportunity and building support for the program, combined with Jessamyn’s work creating the curriculum and coordinating meaningful learning experiences throughout the year, are opening doors for students to explore and experience their environment in new ways. Together, they are creating a program where students can discover, learn, serve their community, and then pass that knowledge on by mentoring others. Through their dedication, Pete and Jessamyn are helping students grow not only as environmental stewards, but also as confident young leaders who can inspire and teach their peers.
Elks Spotlight – “Spirit with Purpose” Takes Flight at Fountain Hills High School
The Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project is proud to support an innovative civic leadership initiative at Fountain Hills High School that combines Americanism, student leadership, school spirit, and civic education.
The Falcon Flight Crew: Student Section & “28th Amendment” Civic Leadership Initiative, led by FHHS Student Government (STUGO) advisor Austin Keating, officially kicked off in recognition of Constitution Day. The project challenges students to think seriously about the U.S. Constitution and what they believe could become a “28th Amendment.”
To help launch the project and present the grant, Fountain Hills Mayor Gerry Friedel and Councilmember Dan Kovacevic, both members of the Fountain Hills Elks Lodge, joined fellow Elks members at the high school. Their participation helped reinforce the connection between the Elks’ commitment to Americanism, community involvement, and encouraging the next generation to become engaged citizens.
Through the initiative, students must develop and submit a thoughtful proposal for a 28th Amendment, explaining what they would add to the Constitution, why they believe it is needed in modern society, and how it could positively affect citizenship, fairness, or society. Submissions are reviewed by STUGO advisors and civics teachers to encourage meaningful civic thought and discussion.
Students also had the opportunity to put their creativity to work through a school-wide contest to design the official Falcon Flight Crew blackout shirt. Congratulations to Gianna Ivie, whose design was selected as the winning shirt design! The shirts will feature Gianna’s student-created design on the front along with the Elks logo on the sleeve.
Students whose amendment proposals meet the project guidelines will earn one of the special shirts, turning traditional school spirit into a reward for civic participation. The initiative has the potential to engage more than 450 FHHS students in grades 9–12 while reinforcing lessons about constitutional rights, responsibilities, government, and the amendment process.
The students’ proposed amendments will ultimately be displayed at Fountain Hills High School and shared with the Elks, giving the community an opportunity to see the ideas and issues that matter to the next generation.
This project is a wonderful example of the Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project bringing students, educators, Elks members, and community leaders together while encouraging young people to become informed, thoughtful, and engaged citizens.
This program brings school spirit with a purpose, and a fitting way to celebrate Constitution Day!
Elks Spotlight: Setting Students Up for Success
Sometimes the things that make the biggest difference in a classroom are also the simplest, like having the right supplies, knowing where to find them, and allowing teachers to spend more time teaching and less time organizing.
Through a grant from the Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project, fourth-grade teachers Sam Brooks and Bailey Stevens at McDowell Mountain Elementary School are creating a more organized, efficient and engaging learning environment for their students.
Approximately 60 fourth-grade students will benefit from the project this school year. The classrooms will receive supplies and organizational materials ranging from headphones, notebooks and student supply replacements to reusable instructional materials, student mailboxes and classroom organization systems.
One of the teachers' goals is to make sure every student has equal access to the supplies they need, regardless of whether they are able to purchase replacements during the school year. They're also creating a designated classroom computer lab system where students will have assigned headphones and login information, helping make Chromebook use more organized and intentional.
The teachers are even looking at the small things that can add up to more learning time. Reusable laminated materials and ready-to-use instructional resources will allow them to quickly provide math references, graph paper, spelling lists, handwriting practice and other materials without students spending class time cutting and gluing pages into notebooks.
“I am very impressed by these teachers’ involvement and commitment to these students!”
— Starla Hohbach, Concession Stand Volunteer and Elks Member
The Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project is proud to support Sam and Bailey as they put these thoughtful ideas into action. Their goal goes beyond simply providing classroom supplies, they are creating an environment where every student has what they need, classroom time is used more effectively, and students are encouraged to become more organized, independent and responsible.
Great job, Sam and Bailey! Thank you for your creativity, dedication and commitment to making the classroom experience better for your students. Fountain Hills is fortunate to have teachers who put this much thought and effort into helping our kids succeed.
Elks Spotlight – Hands-on Learning Adds Up at McDowell Mountain
Building, experimenting, problem-solving, and even making mistakes along the way. That’s what learning will look like for third-grade students in Ms. Kristin Hatfield’s classroom at McDowell Mountain Elementary School with the help of a grant from the Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project.
The Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project provides grants to support educational and extracurricular opportunities for Fountain Hills youth. This grant will help Ms. Hatfield add Math and STEM learning bins to her classroom, giving students more opportunities to learn through hands-on activities, games, building challenges and creative problem-solving.
Approximately 55 third-grade students will use the materials throughout the school year. Ms. Hatfield designed the project to reinforce important math and science skills while also encouraging teamwork, communication, critical thinking and perseverance.
McDowell Mountain Elementary Principal Chris Hartmann supported the project because it gives students opportunities to tackle real-world problems, collaborate with classmates, take leadership roles and learn that trial and error is an important part of solving problems.
“I like the variety of hands-on games for the classes.”
— Janet Pageau, Concession Stand Volunteer and Elks Member
The Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project is proud to support Ms. Hatfield and McDowell Mountain Elementary School as they find new and creative ways to make learning engaging for our local students.
The funds for Youth Project grants are made possible through the hard work of our concession stand volunteers. Every shift worked and every item sold helps us continue supporting Fountain Hills youth.
Elks Spotlight: Helping Students Learn While Saving the Bees
The Fountain Hills Elks Youth Program is proud to support another creative educational opportunity for local students through a grant application submitted by Natasha Berry, Resource Teacher for 2nd and 4th Grade at McDowell Mountain Elementary School.
Natasha's "Save the Bees" project combines literacy development with environmental awareness by teaching students about the critical role bees play in our ecosystem. Through reading passages, writing activities, research projects, and hands-on learning experiences, students will explore why bees are essential pollinators and discover ways they can help protect them.
The project will create an engaging classroom environment centered around a cheerful bee theme while supporting reading and writing instruction. Students will learn about bee conservation, participate in research activities, and work toward creating bee-friendly habitats through partnerships with the school's Garden Club.
Elks Concession volunteer Barb Gierer could personally relate to the project's educational value.
"My sister is a retired elementary school teacher so I witnessed how much of her own money she spent to have a classroom that was cheerful and engaging for students. When the classroom decor is linked to the curriculum it makes it even more impactful and reinforcing for the students. I really like the hands-on plans for the planned curriculum."
Natasha believes that educating children about bees today can have a lasting impact on future generations. By connecting environmental stewardship with literacy skills, students not only strengthen their reading and writing abilities but also learn that they can make a positive difference in the world around them.
The Fountain Hills Elks Youth Program is honored to consider projects that inspire learning, leadership, and community involvement while helping students discover meaningful ways to contribute to the future of our planet.
Elks Spotlight – Falcon Fiesta
The Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project is proud to support a long-standing Fountain Hills High School tradition focused on something every parent and community member values deeply: student safety.
For more than 20 years, Falcon Fiesta has provided graduating seniors with a supervised, drug and alcohol-free celebration immediately following graduation. The overnight event gives students a chance to celebrate together with games, food, music, prizes, and memories that will last a lifetime, all in a safe environment designed to keep students off the roads during one of the highest risk nights of the year.
This year, the future of Falcon Fiesta was uncertain.
Three dedicated mothers, Carly Davis, Alison Stumpf, and Robin Bratcher, stepped forward to ensure the tradition would continue for the Class of 2026. Their commitment came from deeply personal experiences and a shared determination to protect local students.
According to the grant application, all three women lost classmates or friends to drunk driving accidents during their high school years, motivating them to revive and organize the event when it otherwise may not have happened this year.
The Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project awarded funding to help support the event, which includes entertainment, games, food, beverages, prizes, and activities designed to encourage participation and create a memorable celebration for graduates.
Concession stand volunteer and Elk member John Barkley shared why the project resonated with him:
“God bless these 3 people for taking on this project after each of them lost friends to drunk drivers during their high school years.”
Elk member and concession stand volunteer Keri Washburn emphasized the importance of the event to the students and the broader community:
“The Falcon Fiesta is a wonderful way to celebrate the students’ graduation from high school. It is a memory they will carry throughout their lives. While this might not technically be a ‘learning’ activity, students will benefit from the opportunity to celebrate a huge milestone in their lives knowing that the entire community collaborated to bring this event to fruition.”
The event also recognizes the accomplishments of graduating seniors, many of whom balanced academics, extracurricular activities, jobs, and community service throughout their high school careers.
The Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project is honored to support projects that strengthen the community, protect local youth, and create positive lifelong memories for Fountain Hills students.
Elks Spotlight: Play, Learn, Grow at McDowell Mountain Elementary
Sometimes the most meaningful improvements in a school aren’t found in textbooks; instead, they’re found in the moments when students feel engaged, supported, and ready to learn. At McDowell Mountain Elementary, those moments are being thoughtfully reimagined through the Play, Learn, Grow initiative, led by school counselor Heidi Mortensen.
From the very beginning, Heidi Mortensen’s vision aligned seamlessly with the mission of the Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project to inspire learning, leadership, and connection among local youth. Through her application, she identified a critical need: providing students with meaningful play opportunities and classroom support tools that foster both emotional regulation and positive social interaction.
Heidi, alongside Dean of Students Nicole Latona and Principal Val Reichler, developed a comprehensive plan to introduce new recess equipment and classroom support materials designed to benefit all students on campus. Their approach goes beyond simply adding supplies, focusing instead on creating structured and unstructured opportunities for movement, creativity, and collaboration, even during indoor recess days caused by extreme Arizona weather.
What sets this project apart is the depth of thought behind it. Many would recognize the challenge of limited recess options, but Heidi went further, designing a program that integrates sensory tools, cooperative play items, and classroom calming resources. These tools are intended to improve self regulation, reduce behavioral disruptions, and help students transition back into learning environments more successfully.
The anticipated impact is significant. With access to engaging and supportive materials, students will build stronger peer relationships, develop problem solving skills, and return to class more focused and ready to learn. Teachers will also benefit from having resources readily available to support students during challenging moments, creating a more positive and productive classroom environment overall.
The Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project scoring team was especially impressed by the quality, depth and intentionality behind this proposal. Reviewers with backgrounds in school education and student engagement noted both its thoughtful design and its meaningful impact on students.
“This is one of the best applications I have seen. Thoughtfully and thoroughly executed. I give a 5 across the board,” said Adrienne Scott, whose experience working with students informed her strong endorsement.
Keri Washburn, who also brings a background in education and student support, emphasized the practical and emotional benefits the program will provide.
“I feel that students having new and varied materials to use when outside recess equipment is unavailable is a good use of funds. I have seen how the implementation of sensory materials is helpful when teaching students calming strategies. The materials listed in the application appear to be items in which the students could acquire many positive interactions,” Washburn said.
These endorsements reflect what many in the community already know: when educators are given the tools to support the whole child, the results extend far beyond the classroom.
Through the support of the Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project, initiatives like Play, Learn, Grow continue to make a lasting difference in the lives of local students. By investing in both play and emotional well being, this project is helping create a school environment where every child has the opportunity to feel successful, connected, and inspired.
Congratulations to Heidi Mortensen and the McDowell Mountain Elementary team for their dedication to fostering a positive and supportive learning community, one where students can truly play, learn, and grow.
Elks Spotlight – Dancing Toward a Dream
For a group of young dancers from Fountain Hills, a wonderful opportunity is just around the corner, performing on one of the most iconic stages in the world: Disneyland.
Through the Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project, we are proud to support the Falcon Dancers, a growing spiritline program led by Coach Lavona Montgomery and Coach Fallon Montgomery at McDowell Mountain Elementary School. These students, ranging from elementary through high school, have been selected to participate in Disney’s Dance the Magic program this July, where they will perform in the Main Street parade and on stage.
What makes this story especially meaningful is how this program came to life. Just one year ago, the spiritline program began with a small group of students. Today, it has grown significantly, giving dozens of girls an opportunity they might not otherwise have had access to. Dance and cheer programs can be costly, and many families face financial barriers, but this team did not stop. Instead, they fundraised, practiced, and submitted a performance video that earned them a coveted invitation to represent their district at Disneyland.
The impact reaches far beyond the performance itself. The program is intentionally designed to build leadership and mentorship, with older students guiding younger dancers. Along the way, participants develop confidence, teamwork, and resilience. These skills will stay with them long after the music ends. The experience also strengthens connections across grade levels and builds a sense of pride within the school and the broader community.
Elks members who help make these opportunities possible through their work at the Golden Eagle concession stand recognize just how meaningful experiences like this can be.
“Working at a high school for 20 years, I chaperoned many team sport events like the one the students have been offered. It is a great opportunity and learning experience for the students.” — Debi Wells
“I like the leadership and learning opportunities. I also like the wide range of students that can participate in the endeavor.” — Don Frederick
With support from the Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project, grant funds will help provide essential items such as dance costumes and footwear, ensuring each of the 20 participating dancers is ready to perform with confidence and pride. While families have worked hard to raise funds, this support helps close the gap and makes the experience more accessible to every student.
As these Falcon Dancers take the stage at Disneyland this summer, they will carry with them not only their routines, but also the encouragement of a community that believes in their potential. Their journey is a reminder that when opportunity meets hard work and support, incredible things can happen.
Congratulations to the Falcon Dancers and Coaches. We can’t wait to see you shine on stage!
Elks Spotlight: Inspiring Movement, Confidence, and Lifelong Health
When you walk into a physical education class at McDowell Mountain Elementary, you see more than students moving, you see confidence building, teamwork forming, and a foundation for lifelong health taking shape. That vision is exactly what Physical Education teacher Joyel Sweet set out to strengthen through her recent grant application.
Through the support of the Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project, Sweet’s passion for her students is being transformed into meaningful opportunity, bringing updated, engaging equipment to enhance the daily experience of every child she teaches.
Joyel Sweet, a dedicated Physical Education teacher at McDowell Mountain Elementary School, recognized a growing challenge: much of the current equipment was outdated, limited, or insufficient for a full class. Yet instead of accepting those limitations, she envisioned something more, an engaging, dynamic program where every student could actively participate, build skills, and feel successful. Her application clearly reflects both her commitment to her students and her understanding of how critical physical activity is to overall development.
She designed a plan to introduce modern, versatile equipment that supports skill-building across multiple areas, including throwing, catching, balance, coordination, and cooperative play. Her approach emphasizes small-group stations and differentiated instruction, ensuring every student, regardless of ability level, can engage fully and meaningfully.
The impact of this effort is significant. Approximately 350 students, from Pre-K through 5th grade, will directly benefit from improved access to equipment and increased participation opportunities. The new equipment is expected to reduce wait times by up to 30 percent, increase engagement, and help students develop critical motor and social skills. Beyond the gym, the long-term benefits include improved physical literacy, stronger teamwork, and healthier lifestyles that extend into adolescence and adulthood.
“This teachers' excitement and enthusiasm for her students certainly shines through clearly with this grant application!” — Sue Modrak, Elks Member & Concession Volunteer
Thanks to the support of the Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project, Joyel Sweet will be able to bring this vision to life, equipping her program with the tools needed to create a more engaging and impactful physical education experience.
Elks Spotlight – Opening Doors to Adventure for Local Students
For many students, learning comes alive when they step outside the classroom and experience history and science firsthand. Thanks to the continued support of the Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project, a group of local fourth-grade students will soon have that opportunity through an immersive field experience known as Cavern Quest.
This year, the project received a grant from the Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project to support the upcoming educational trip. The funding comes at a perfect time. Teachers and families had already worked hard to raise funds, bringing the cost per student down from $160 to $122. The grant will help lower the cost even further and allow the school to secure a second bus, expanding the number of students who can participate.
The full-day learning adventure will take students to Bisbee and Benson, Arizona, where they will tour the Copper Queen Mine, visit the Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum, explore the historic town of Bisbee, and finish the day with a guided tour of Kartchner Caverns State Park. The experience combines Arizona history, geology, and environmental science in a hands-on format that helps students connect classroom lessons with the real world.
Beyond the educational value, the trip also helps students develop teamwork, confidence, and leadership skills as they navigate a full day of exploration together. Experiences like this often leave lasting impressions and spark new curiosity about science, history, and the natural world.
Elks member and concession stand volunteer Dan Troller sees the impact these grants can have on local youth.
“One of the best parts of the Elks Youth Project is knowing that the work our volunteers do directly creates opportunities for kids in our community,” said Troller. “Helping students experience something as unique as Kartchner Caverns and the Copper Queen Mine is exactly the kind of hands-on learning that can inspire them for years to come.”
The Cavern Quest project aligns perfectly with the mission of the Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project, to support educational opportunities that inspire learning, leadership, and collaboration among local youth. By helping remove financial barriers and expanding participation, the grant ensures that more students can take part in a memorable experience that blends adventure with education.
The Fountain Hills Elks Lodge is proud to support programs like this and grateful to the volunteers, educators, and families who work together to create meaningful opportunities for local students.
Elks Spotlight: McDowell Mountain Elementary 5th Grade Grand Canyon Adventure
Some lessons simply can’t be taught from a textbook, instead they must be experienced.
This spring, fifth graders from McDowell Mountain Elementary School will trade classroom desks for canyon rims, observatories, and ancient ruins as they embark on a multi-day Grand Canyon adventure. Thanks to a grant from the Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project, this unforgettable educational experience is becoming more accessible for families while preserving a cherished fifth-grade tradition.
This is Lauren Butler’s first year teaching 5th grade at McDowell Mountain Elementary, and she has already embraced one of the school’s most meaningful traditions, the 5th Grade Grand Canyon Trip. Stepping into a program can be daunting, but Lauren didn’t simply continue the tradition, she championed it.
Working alongside Principal Valerie Reichler and the fifth-grade team, Lauren helped coordinate logistics, fundraising, and preparation for an overnight educational experience that connects Arizona history, science, geography, and culture in powerful, real-world ways
Most field trips last a few hours. This one spans two full days across Northern Arizona, immersing students in:
Montezuma Well National Monument
Wupatki National Monument
Lowell Observatory
Grand Canyon National Park
Northern Arizona University
Bearizona Wildlife Park
Students will explore geology at the Grand Canyon’s Bright Angel Lodge, study Indigenous cultures at Wupatki, connect astronomy concepts under the dark skies of Lowell Observatory, and strengthen teamwork through shared lodging and travel experiences
Beyond academics, this trip serves as a milestone moment before students transition to middle school. For many, it will be their first overnight experience away from home and their first visit to Arizona’s most iconic landmarks.
“I think this trip and all that takes place is amazing.” — Steve Posel, Concession Volunteer and Elks Member
Steve’s words capture what so many in our community feel. The learning is powerful. The memories are lasting. And the collaboration between schools and community organizations reflects what the Elks stand for, investing in youth and building future leaders.
The Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project awarded a grant to help offset per-student costs for the trip, Additional funding comes from grade-level fundraising efforts and family contributions, demonstrating a true community partnership. This project strongly aligns with the Elks mission to support Fountain Hills youth while inspiring learning, leadership, and collaboration
As Lauren leads her first group of McDowell Mountain Elementary fifth graders on this incredible journey, she’s not just organizing a trip, she’s helping create core memories, ignite curiosity, and strengthen confidence in young students.
The Elks and our community are proud to support this initiative. Because of that support, this tradition continues and will be stronger than ever.
Elks Spotlight – Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project Supports Reading Through the Grand Canyon Reader Program
A love of reading can open doors to imagination, curiosity, and lifelong learning. This year, that opportunity is reaching students at McDowell Mountain Elementary School thanks to a grant from the Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project. The grant supports the school’s participation in the Grand Canyon Reader Award program, providing students with access to engaging, high-quality books that inspire reading and meaningful discussion.
The grant application was submitted by Garnet Pennington, Library Aide, whose dedication to student literacy helped bring this program to life. Through this Youth Project grant, books were purchased specifically for the Grand Canyon Reader Award program, benefiting all 320 students at McDowell Mountain Elementary. While every student has access to the books through classroom readings and the school library, kindergarten through third-grade students participate in the official voting process, reading nominated titles and selecting their favorites at the conclusion of the program.
What makes this program especially impactful is the shared experience it creates across grade levels. Over an eight-week reading period, classes read the same Grand Canyon Reader Award book each week, sparking schoolwide conversations and building excitement. Students eagerly discuss stories and characters, look forward to library time, and anticipate casting their votes, an event they look forward to each year.
The impact of the program continues well beyond the reading schedule. The Grand Canyon Reader Award books remain among the most frequently checked-out titles in the library for months, encouraging independent reading and exploration. Teachers report that the program helps introduce students to new books and genres while strengthening literacy skills and classroom discussions.
“What better way to support the education of children than through reading?” said Debi Wells, a concession stand volunteer and Fountain Hills Elks member. “Books spark curiosity, build confidence, and open doors that last a lifetime.”
The Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project grant ensures the school has enough copies of the Grand Canyon Reader Award books to support group readings and individual checkout. By investing in literacy and student engagement, the Elks are helping create positive, lasting learning experiences for local students.
This grant reflects the Elks’ ongoing commitment to youth, education, and community enrichment. Through initiatives like the Grand Canyon Reader Award program, the Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project continues to live its mission, Elks Care • Elks Share.
Elks Spotlight: Stepping Up for Falcons Student-Athletes
On any given afternoon at the Fountain Hills baseball field, you’ll find more than practices and games underway, you’ll find leadership, mentorship, and a coach who believes that what happens off the field matters just as much as what happens on it.
That coach is Fountain Hills’ new Falcons Head Baseball Coach, Matt Ellett. He demonstrated that commitment by stepping up to support the new scoreboard project and applying for a grant through the Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project, an effort that reflects a shared investment in students, school pride, and the future of the program. In support of this effort, the Elks awarded a $2,500 grant toward the scoreboard installation, helping move the community-supported project forward.
Matt Ellett is the Head Baseball Coach for Fountain Hills Middle School and High School, bringing more than 17 years of coaching experience at both the club and high school levels. Since arriving in Fountain Hills, Coach Ellett has focused on building not only strong baseball programs, but strong young people, instilling discipline, accountability, teamwork, and respect in every athlete he coaches.
His background includes years of success as a head coach in Illinois, where his teams consistently reached postseason play and sent numerous players on to college baseball. That experience now directly benefits Fountain Hills students and families.
The new scoreboard project will directly benefit baseball student-athletes, along with countless spectators, families, and future players. Beyond displaying scores, the scoreboard will serve as a real-world learning tool, offering students opportunities to manage game operations, learn technical skills, and take on leadership roles during events.
The upgraded facility will enhance communication during games, improve visibility, and create a more inclusive and engaging game-day experience for both baseball and softball programs. Most importantly, it reinforces to students that their school and community are invested in their growth.
“What stood out most was Coach Ellett’s commitment to doing what was best for the students, not because it was required, but because he genuinely believes in giving them opportunities to grow and take pride in their program.”— Dan Troller, Concession Stand Volunteer and Elks Member
Coach Ellett’s dedication exemplifies the spirit of the Elks, serving youth, strengthening communities, and going the extra mile to make a lasting difference. We are proud to support this project and grateful for his continued commitment to Fountain Hills students.
Elks Spotlight: A New Softball Scoreboard for Fountain Hills Schools
Some upgrades change a game. Others change a program. And then there are improvements, like a brand-new softball scoreboard, that elevate the experience for the players who step onto the field each season. As the Fountain Hills schools work toward raising the full cost of the project, the Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project is proud to support the effort with a $2,500 grant, helping bring a modern, functional scoreboard within reach for current and future athletes.
For Head Softball Coach Marissa Flores, the project began with a simple challenge: the existing scoreboard was broken beyond repair and had been for some time. Without it, athletes, coaches, and families were missing a key part of the softball experience, a way to track innings, celebrate momentum, and learn the rhythms and strategy of the sport. A functioning scoreboard isn’t just a piece of equipment; it’s an essential learning tool. It helps young players stay engaged, understand game flow, and develop focus and real-time decision-making.
But as Coach Flores and Athletic Director Dr. Evelyn Wynn quickly realized, replacing the scoreboard would require determination, fundraising, and broad community support. The project’s reach extends far beyond the school’s competitive teams. The field is home to youth sports camps, after-school programs, and clinics, all of whom will benefit from the new scoreboard.
A scoreboard does more than display numbers. It creates atmosphere. It signals that players’ hard work is seen and valued. It teaches responsibility: someone must run it accurately. It teaches focus: athletes learn to adjust their play based on inning, outs, and score. And it teaches teamwork: a scoreboard brings everyone, players, coaches, families, and fans, into the same moment of the game.
This project captured the attention of many, including concession stand volunteer Barb Gierer, who shared why she was immediately drawn to it: “Because it’s ambitious, will impact a lot of kids for years to come, raise the profile of the town school system, and in order to raise enough money they have to be tenacious.”
Current fundraising totals show exactly that tenacity. The project cost is $25,000 and while the schools have already raised over $10,000 the Elks Youth Project grant will help propel the effort forward.
The goal is to have the new scoreboard installed by the 2026 season, with a community ribbon-cutting event planned to celebrate the achievement and recognize the partners who made it possible. One of the easiest ways for an individual or family to assist with funding the new scoreboard is through an Arizona Tax Credit Donation. This program allows you to contribute up to $400 per family each year, and you receive every dollar back as a credit when you file your state taxes. Simply click HERE to make your tax credit donation that will go directly towards this project.
On December 17, 2025, a group of Elks gathered to present the $2,500 grant to the Fountain Hills girls’ softball team. Mayor and Elks member Gerry Friedel attended the ceremony in support of the project and made a personal donation of $500, encouraging others in the community to do the same.
The Fountain Hills Elks are proud to help make this lasting investment in our schools, our students, and the future of softball in our town.
Elks Spotlight: Fountain Hills High School Track & Field Record Board
When you walk through a school hallway, you expect to see the usual class photos, posters, maybe trophies behind a glass case. What you don’t always see is something that instantly stops students, alumni, and families in their tracks: a place where history, pride, and possibility all live side-by-side. Thanks to a grant from the Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project, Fountain Hills High School will soon have a new Track & Field Record Board that honors decades of Falcon achievement and inspires the next generation to chase big goals.
For Coach Andrea Hall, Head Coach for Cross Country and Track & Field, restoring the school’s aging and weather-damaged board was more than a facilities upgrade, it was a way to reconnect students with their athletic heritage and re-ignite inspiration. After the original board partially fell apart due to age and weather, Coach Hall immediately recognized what was at stake. “I have a young group of athletes trying to read the board and see what records they want to break,” she shared. “How exciting!”
Record boards do more than display times and names, they teach students to dream bigger.
A visible, well-designed record board:
Preserves school history, honoring past athletes whose hard work helped shape the Track & Field program.
Motivates current athletes, who stand in front of the board imagining their name on it next.
Shows students of all abilities there is a place for them, sparking curiosity about events they may not yet know they can excel in.
Strengthens school pride and community identity, becoming a point of celebration for families, alumni, and visitors at school events.
Promotes goal setting, giving students real, tangible marks to chase, often the first step in seeing themselves as capable, dedicated competitors.
As Coach Hall describes, Track & Field is both an individual and team journey, rooted in accountability, communication, and sportsmanship, values directly aligned with the Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project mission.
More than 1,000 students, families, and visitors walk past this area during athletic events and school activities. The new board will become a proud landmark, one that prompts conversations, sparks ambition and honors a long legacy of Falcon athletes.
A quality record board doesn’t just track numbers; it raises the standard for everyone who walks by it. As longtime concession stand volunteer Dan Helpman shared, “A quality record board can be an incentive to students, as well as a way to impress opposing teams.” His sentiment reflects what many in the community feel, the board is a symbol of pride, discipline, and the competitive spirit that defines Falcon athletics.
Coach Hall also plans to host an unveiling event, inviting alumni and community members to celebrate their accomplishments and reconnect with the program that helped shape them
The Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project is proud to support this meaningful initiative through a grant that will bring a modern, visible, inspiring Track & Field Record Board to FHHS. By preserving the past and motivating the future, this project reflects the very heart of our mission building strong, confident youth who believe in their potential.
Congratulations to Coach Andrea Hall and the entire FHHS Track & Field community. We look forward to celebrating many new records in the years ahead.
Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project Spotlight: Girl Scouts of Fountain Hills – Parade Float Contest Winner
The Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project was proud to sponsor a float-design contest for Girl Scouts of Fountain Hills in the Thanksgiving Day Parade. The goal of the contest was to encourage creativity, teamwork, and community pride among local youth and this year’s entries exceeded every expectation.
We are excited to announce that Girl Scout Troop 3403 won the contest with their imaginative and heartfelt float titled “Greatest Show of Gratitude”. Blending the colorful energy of The Greatest Showman with the values of gratitude and service, Troop 3403 created a joyful and meaningful float that celebrated the Girl Scouts’ presence in the Fountain Hills community.
Working with the Girl Scouts of Fountain Hills has been an exceptional experience. The leadership within the program is truly outstanding, thoughtful, organized, and deeply committed to helping young girls grow into confident leaders. What stands out most is their intentional approach to programming: they design activities and community projects that not only create meaningful experiences in the moment but also can be built upon year after year. This long-term vision strengthens the impact on the girls and enriches the entire Fountain Hills community.
Following the parade, the Elks received a heartfelt message from Erika Percic, Fountain Hills Girl Scout Troop 3403 Neighborhood Manager, expressing what the sponsorship meant to the troop:
“On behalf of the Fountain Hills Girl Scouts I wanted to extend a HUGE thank you for your financial support for the float this year. I absolutely love how the girls and leaders come together and bring their creativity to the community. With the Elks support the float was bigger and more beautiful than ever!! Please know that because of your support, the girls will have had memories that last a lifetime.”
Her words reflect exactly why the Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project continues to invest in youth programs: to empower young people to create, collaborate, and build lifelong memories through positive community experiences.
We extend our warmest congratulations to Troop 3403 and appreciation to all Girl Scouts, leaders, parents, and volunteers who helped bring the “Greatest Show of Gratitude” float to life.
The Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project is honored to support programs that nurture leadership, creativity, gratitude, and community connection among Fountain Hills youth. We look forward to continuing this partnership and witnessing many more incredible achievements from our local Girl Scouts.
Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project Grant Spotlight: FHHS Golf Team Uniform & Leadership Initiative
This project captures what the Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project is all about, supporting young people in ways that build confidence, character, and community. This year, the Fountain Hills High School Golf Team has presented such a project: a uniform and leadership initiative designed to bring professionalism, unity, and pride to a growing group of student-athletes.
Led by teacher, history department head, and golf coach Austin Keating, the FHHS Golf Team applied for funding to provide matching, professional-quality golf polos for all team members. Coach Keating’s proposal uses appearance as a tool for leadership development, teaching students that how they present themselves reflects how they represent their school and community. This project establishes a standard of professionalism for every tournament, practice, and community appearance. It is a tradition-building effort: one that conveys “We are a team, and we represent something bigger than ourselves.”
Why Uniformity Matters: The Impact on Students
Matching uniforms may seem small thing, but their impact is significant:
• Team Identity & Cohesion: Wearing the same professional polo helps unify students from different grade levels and backgrounds, strengthening collaboration and camaraderie.
• Leadership & Responsibility: With a uniform comes accountability. Players learn that they represent FHHS and the Elks with every match they play.
• Visibility & Community Connection: The Elks name on the sleeve ensures the team proudly displays the support of the Fountain Hills Elks at every tournament, an ongoing reminder that their community stands behind them.
Coach Keating shared that seeing the students step onto the first tee box in unified attire is the moment he looks forward to most, a visual display of their confidence and the community’s belief in them.
Elks Member and concession volunteer Stacy Braun offered insight into why supporting this project matters:
“I believe uniforms and uniformity in athletics is important to team bonding and cohesion. I am aware that most high school athletic programs are now responsible for their own uniforms and equipment. Youth athletics are important! It helps mold our future.”
The FHHS Golf Team Uniform & Leadership Initiative is more than a request for shirts, it is an investment in leadership, pride, and the future of Fountain Hills youth. With this grant, the Fountain Hills Elks help ensure that our young athletes walk onto the course not only looking like a team but feeling like one.
Elks Spotlight – Game Ready: Safe & Equitable Equipment for Fountain Hills Softball - Michaela Quintana and Marissa Flores
Strong teams are built not just on talent, but on the tools that keep players safe and united. For the Fountain Hills High School and Middle School softball programs, one reality stood out: passion was abundant, but proper safety equipment was not. Thanks to the dedication of Coaches Michaela Quintana and Marissa Flores, and their initiative to apply for funding, that need is now being met through a Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project grant.
Assistant Coach Michaela Quintana, alongside Head Coach Marissa Flores, has been leading the charge to ensure every softball player, whether in middle school or high school, steps onto the field with the equipment they need. Both coaches know firsthand how vital athletics can be in shaping the future of young people. For their players, softball isn’t just a game; it’s a chance to grow in confidence, teamwork, and resilience.
Coach Quintana explained it best:
“Beyond athletic performance, the project encourages athletes to see themselves as part of something bigger, using teamwork and competition as a foundation for creative growth, resilience, and personal expression.”
The ripple effect of this project will be immediate and long-lasting. With 30–40 players benefiting directly, athletes will be safer, more confident, and better unified as a team. Beyond the field, the impact is just as powerful, students gain leadership skills, academic discipline, and social connections that strengthen the community as a whole. By eliminating financial barriers, the program ensures that every player has access to essential safety equipment.
Elks member and concession stand volunteer Sue Modrak summed up the community’s support:
“What impressed me most was how clearly this grant application defined its goals. I wholeheartedly support this project.”
From dedicated athletes showing up eager to play despite limited resources, to stepping onto the field fully equipped, the journey of Fountain Hills softball reflects the power of community support. To honor their efforts, the Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project is awarding a grant to fund essential equipment for both the middle and high school teams.
Congratulations to Coaches Michaela Quintana and Marissa Flores and to every athlete who will now take the field with confidence. Here’s to a season where preparation, pride, and possibility shine as brightly as the Arizona sun.
Elks Spotlight – George Zeliff
Sometimes the best ideas begin with a single click. For George Zeliff, a Digital Communications teacher at Fountain Hills High School, one simple idea—giving students more time behind the camera, has blossomed into an opportunity that could change the course of their high school experience.
In his classroom, George teaches basic photography, graphic design, and yearbook production. But he noticed a gap: students eager to pursue photography in depth didn’t have the space or resources to fully develop their skills. Rather than let that enthusiasm fade, George launched the FHHS SkillsUSA Club, providing students with a place to grow creatively, collaborate, and prepare for state-level competitions.
Thanks to George’s initiative, at least 20 students this year, and likely more as the club grows, will gain access to cameras, competitions, and real-world creative opportunities. Club members will showcase their talents in SkillsUSA competitions, contribute to yearbook and community events, and step into leadership roles earlier in their high school journey. In short, George’s project empowers students to see the world differently, through a lens of creativity, confidence, and possibility.
"Programs like this do more than teach; they prepare students with practical, creative skills that will serve them well beyond high school." Vinny Gargiulo Elks member and concession stand volunteer.
From his first year as a teacher to leading a brand-new program, George Zeliff has proven that passion and perseverance can inspire an entire generation of students. The Fountain Hills Elks are proud to award a grant to the Fountain Hills Unified School District on behalf of the SkillsUSA Club.
George would like to give a special shout-out to Alison Mecom, Career Tech Education (CTE) Director, for her invaluable support. She not only helped him structure the new program but also mentored him throughout the process, ensuring its success from the start.
Congratulations to George and the students of FHHS, the future looks brighter through your lens of creativity and leadership!
Elks Spotlight - Peter McGloin
Who says comebacks are just for athletes? 🏐 Peter “Coach Pete” McGloin returned to lead beach volleyball and secured a grant for new equipment. That’s what we call a winning play!
Coach Pete is not only a school psychologist at Fountain Hills Middle School and High School but also a former volleyball and beach volleyball coach. After a few years away, he returned to coach beach volleyball because he saw the need, and the opportunity, to create positive experiences for students once again. His contributions matter because school sports don’t just fill schedules; they teach teamwork, leadership, resilience, and confidence, shaping students far beyond the court.
Most people would have stopped at simply volunteering to coach. But Coach Pete went further by starting a new middle school program. “I was inspired to come back to coaching to help provide more good experiences for the kids, and help create memories for a lifetime,” Coach Pete stated in the grant application, “I am hoping that starting a middle school club will allow for even more kids to have fun experiences playing beach volleyball, and have lots of opportunities to develop socially, physically, and mentally while learning life lessons to help them for many years to come.”
Thanks to his effort, 40–50 students at both the middle school and high school will directly benefit from safe, reliable, and professional equipment. The impact extends further: the equipment will also support staff volleyball tournaments, and community events like the “Return to Recess” program. Families and community members alike will see the ripple effect of this grant in renewed energy, participation, and pride.
Elks member and Golden Eagle concession stand volunteer Janet Pageau put it simply: “I think it’s very important for kids to be involved in a sport. It teaches them how to get along by being part of a team.”
By securing this grant from the Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project, Coach Pete has provided equipment that will serve students and the community for years. The Fountain Hills Elks proudly recognize his leadership, commitment, and vision. a reminder that when someone goes above and beyond, the rewards extend far beyond the game.