Charlottesville Elks Lodge Donated $10,000 to Foothills

The local donation supports forensic and medical services for children in the Charlottesville community.

Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Philanthropy

A section of an historic red brick wall with a white architectural column in Charlottesville, captured in soft morning light. — Charlottesville Elks Lodge 389 donated $10,000 to the Foothills Child Advocacy Center to support forensic and medical services for local children. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Charlottesville Elks' Lodge 389 has donated $10,000 to the Foothills Child Advocacy Center. The funds will cover the costs of providing essential services to children in the area.

Why it matters

Child Advocacy Centers often face funding gaps because they lack full public financial support. This donation helps bridge that gap, ensuring families can continue to access services without charge.

The Foothills Child Advocacy Center conducts approximately 320 forensic interviews and medical exams annually. It serves children aged 3 to 18 across Charlottesville and eight surrounding counties.

The players

Charlottesville Elks' Lodge 389

This is a local chapter of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, a fraternal organization known for its charitable activities in communities.

Foothills Child Advocacy Center

Established in 2006, this organization provides specialized care for children referred by law enforcement or protective services agencies.

Chuck Marshall

He is a member of the Elks' Lodge who spearheaded the effort to secure the donation for the child advocacy center.

The details

The donation was pitched by member Chuck Marshall to his fellow Elks' Lodge 389 members to help sustain the nonprofit's operations. The center utilizes specially trained professionals to provide medical and forensic support to children referred by Child Protective Services or law enforcement.

2006: Foothills Child Advocacy Center was founded.
2011: The center received official accreditation.
May: The annual Charlottesville Cup pickleball tournament is held.
November: The annual Mustaches 4 Kids event is held.
October 2, 2026: The Elks Lodge donation was officially announced.

Market Landscape

The organization operates within the structure defined by the National Children's Alliance accreditation standards. This donation aligns with the ongoing shift toward private and community-led fundraising to support critical local social safety nets.

Families in the Charlottesville area retain access to critical forensic and medical services at no personal charge. This funding ensures that the center can continue its existing programs for children in need.

The takeaway

Community-based donations remain a primary driver for nonprofits providing specialized services to youth in the Charlottesville region. Organizations like the Elks' Lodge play a vital role in maintaining services when public funding is insufficient.