John Jackman received his 45 year pin from the Elks of Canada for supporting community needs through volunteer efforts with the Aldergrove Elks Lodge.
John was presented with the award by Doug Phillips (past Exalted Ruler of Aldergrove Elks Lodge) and Rosealine Webster (past Chaplin of Aldergrove Elks Lodge).
The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Aldergrove Lodge #66 was instituted 91 years ago on June 30, 1923.
The Jackman family has been involved in this Lodge since its inception, and John's great-uncle Richard Jackman cut the lumber to build the first Elks Hall in 1925. The initial Elks Lodge meetings were held in the Aldergrove Opera House until the completion of the new hall.
In recent years the Aldergrove Elks sold their hall and property because of the changing times. Up until the 1990s the Elks Hall was the unofficial "city hall" of the Aldergrove community. As a focal point in the community the hall served as a venue for weddings, election polls, special events and meetings, church catering, and other civic affairs and gatherings in downtown Aldergrove.
"I have organized and chaired many volunteer committees that have raised funds to help children and families with special needs in Aldergrove and surrounding area," said John.
"Most recently our committee has arranged a joint venture with the Township of Langley to assist in a proposed senior and youth centre in the proposed site at the former elementary school on Fraser Highway, with the hope of creating a lasting legacy in this community."
The Aldergrove Elks remain active and continue to serve their community through volunteer work.