AUGUST 29, 2026
The DCFS picnic was a big success again this Year!!!!
This year was the 41st annual DCFS picnic. 37 years ago, Marion 800 member, Bobby Hudgens saw an article in the paper about the DCFS Picnic and asked “HOW CAN WE HELP?” The next several years Marion Elks volunteers grilled hotdogs on site and provided lunch for the youth in care.
When Bobby passed away in 2008, Ted Clendenin took the responsibility to make sure the tradition continued. Knowing that as ELKS we could do more for youth in care Ted got the ELKS South District, South Central District and IEA involved.
Annually DCFS presents Certificates of Appreciation to to Marion #800, IEA South District, IEA South Central District and IEA.
The DCFS picnic was a big success again this year!!!! This was the 41st year of the DCFS picnic and the 36th year of Elk participation.
This year we had 70 ELKS volunteers from all over the state. We prepared 910 hot dog sack lunches for the children and their families and workers. $10 dollar bills were given to each child to spend at the fair. Each family was given a $40 gas card to help get them home. Armbands were furnished by DCFS.
We served 104 families and 419 adopted and foster children and their siblings.
Even ELROY was there!!! He gave out 400 DAP bags of Drug Awareness materials.
Recognized were two young ladies (pictured with IEA President Jeff Sterr) that are former YOUTH IN CARE and currently serving their country in the military.
Du Quoin #884 (pictured)received the Bob Hudgens/Ted Clendenin Memorial award.
IT WAS A GREAT DAY FOR THE CHILDREN AND THEIR FAMILIES
