Fraternal Lodges in Long Beach, Washington: Elks #1937, Eagles #3602, and Moose #2362
Long Beach, Washington, is a picturesque coastal community renowned for its stunning views, warm community spirit, and rich history. At the heart of this small town’s vibrant culture are its fraternal lodges: the Elks Lodge #1937, the Eagles Aerie #3602, and the Moose Lodge #2362. These lodges serve as social, charitable, and cultural hubs, playing a vital role in uniting the local population and contributing to the well-being of the area.

History and Mission
The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPOE) is one of the oldest fraternal organizations in the United States, founded in 1868. Elks Lodge #1937 in Long Beach was chartered in the mid-20th century, carrying forward the values of charity, justice, brotherly love, and fidelity. Over the decades, the Long Beach Elks have become a cornerstone of community support and engagement in the region.

Community Contributions
The Elks are renowned for their focus on youth programs, veterans’ support, and scholarships. Lodge #1937 is no exception. It organizes annual events such as youth essay contests, drug awareness programs, and scholarship competitions, providing essential resources for young residents to pursue higher education.

Veteran services are also a cornerstone of the Elks’ mission. Through programs like “Welcome Home,” the Long Beach lodge helps veterans transition to civilian life by providing housing assistance, job training, and other vital resources. Regular events, including free meals for veterans and fundraisers for military families, demonstrate their unwavering commitment to those who have served the nation.

Social and Recreational Activities
The Elks Lodge #1937 is not just a place of service but also a hub for social gatherings and recreation. Members enjoy access to a variety of activities, including dinners, dances, and holiday celebrations. These events foster camaraderie and a sense of belonging, reinforcing the lodge’s reputation as a welcoming space for locals of all ages.

Elks Lodge #1937
110 Pacific Ave
Long Beach, WA 98631
Phone: (360) 642-2651
info@longbeachelks.org

History and Purpose
The Fraternal Order of Eagles (FOE) was founded in 1898 with the mission of “people helping people.” Aerie #3602 in Long Beach was established as part of this nationwide network, dedicated to supporting the community through philanthropy and advocacy. The Eagles are especially noted for their role in initiating the creation of Social Security and promoting key labor reforms in the early 20th century.

Philanthropy and Local Impact
Aerie #3602 is deeply involved in charitable work, focusing on health-related causes such as diabetes research, cancer awareness, and heart disease prevention. Fundraising efforts often take the form of community events like auctions, raffles, and themed dinners. The proceeds are directed toward local hospitals, families in need, and national research initiatives.

Youth and family services are another key area of focus. The Eagles sponsor sports programs, provide school supplies for underprivileged children, and host annual holiday events where local families can receive gifts and meals.

A Hub for Community Events
The Eagles lodge in Long Beach is a vibrant gathering place, hosting weekly bingo nights, karaoke sessions, and live music performances. These activities bring together members and non-members alike, fostering a sense of unity and celebration within the community. Their spacious event hall is also available for private functions, making it a popular venue for weddings, reunions, and other special occasions.

Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #3602
1409 262nd Place
Ocean Park, WA 98640
Aerie: (360) 665-5106
Auxiliary: (360) 665-6688
Eagles Lounge: (360) 665-5846
beachfoe@reachone.com

Origins and Philosophy
The Loyal Order of Moose, founded in 1888, is a service-oriented fraternal organization with a global reach. Moose Lodge #2362 in Long Beach upholds the organization’s mission of improving communities through volunteerism, fundraising, and social engagement. The Moose organization is perhaps best known for supporting Mooseheart, a residential childcare facility, and Moosehaven, a retirement community for seniors.

Support for the Local Community
Lodge #2362 focuses its efforts on improving the lives of Long Beach residents. Regular food drives, clothing donations, and fundraising events ensure that vulnerable populations receive much-needed assistance. The lodge also participates in national Moose programs, such as Tommy Moose, which provides stuffed animals to comfort children in traumatic situations.

For local seniors, the Moose lodge offers social programs and recreational activities that combat isolation and promote healthy aging. Luncheons, fitness classes, and game nights provide opportunities for older adults to stay connected and engaged.

A Social and Recreational Hub
The Moose Lodge is a lively center for socializing and entertainment. From Friday night dinners to charity poker tournaments, the lodge offers a variety of events that appeal to members of all ages. Its bar and grill are particularly popular, serving as a relaxed space where locals can unwind and enjoy good food and company. Seasonal events, such as Halloween parties and summer picnics, further enhance the lodge’s reputation as a hub of community life.

Administrator
Peninsula Moose Lodge #2362
25915 U Street
P.O. Box 1100
Ocean Park, WA 98640
(360) 665-2362

Website: http://lodge2362.moosepages.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Peninsula-Moose-Lodge-2362-344131856149520/
Email: lodge2362@mooseunits.org

Shared Values and Collaboration
While each of these fraternal organizations has its unique identity and focus areas, they share core values of service, fellowship, and community improvement. The Elks, Eagles, and Moose lodges in Long Beach often collaborate on events and initiatives, amplifying their collective impact.

Joint Events and Initiatives
One example of collaboration is the annual community clean-up day, where members from all three lodges join forces to beautify public spaces in Long Beach. Another is the holiday food drive, which provides meals for hundreds of families during the festive season. By working together, these organizations demonstrate the power of unity in achieving common goals.

Strengthening Community Bonds
The lodges also contribute to the town’s vibrant cultural scene by organizing parades, craft fairs, and open-house events. These activities attract residents and visitors alike, showcasing the charm and hospitality of Long Beach. Through their combined efforts, the Elks, Eagles, and Moose play a pivotal role in preserving the town’s unique character and fostering a sense of pride among its inhabitants.

The Role of Fraternal Organizations in Modern Society
In an era of increasing digital connectivity, the tangible, face-to-face interactions facilitated by fraternal lodges have never been more valuable. The Elks, Eagles, and Moose lodges in Long Beach serve as reminders of the importance of community ties, mutual support, and shared traditions.

Adapting to Changing Times
To remain relevant, these organizations have embraced modern technology and expanded their outreach efforts. Social media platforms are now used to promote events, recruit new members, and share stories of community impact. Additionally, virtual meetings and hybrid events have become commonplace, ensuring that members can stay connected regardless of physical distance.

Inspiring the Next Generation
Attracting younger members is a priority for all three lodges. By offering programs that align with the interests and values of millennials and Gen Z, such as environmental conservation and social justice initiatives, these organizations are paving the way for a sustainable future. Youth membership programs, scholarships, and mentorship opportunities further demonstrate their commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders.

The Elks Lodge #1937, Eagles Aerie #3602, and Moose Lodge #2362 are more than just fraternal organizations—they are pillars of the Long Beach community. Through their charitable work, social events, and unwavering commitment to service, these lodges enrich the lives of residents and strengthen the fabric of the town. As Long Beach continues to evolve, the enduring presence of these fraternal organizations ensures that the values of fellowship, philanthropy, and community spirit will remain at the heart of this coastal gem.

Some images credit by www.freepik.com