The Chattanooga Elks Lodge #91 will hold its annual Drug Take Back and Emergency Preparedness Community Event on Saturday, Oct. 24, from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Lodge, 1067 Graysville Road.

The Chattanooga Elks Lodge is one of several local sites recognized during the DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day as a safe and authorized location where individuals can drop off unused or expired medications for proper disposal. First Responders from Police, Fire and Emergency Services will be on site during the event. The Elks Lodge will also provide drug awareness resources for children and adults as well as offer free smoke detectors to families.

Mary Snellgrove, Exalted Ruler/President of the Chattanooga Elks Lodge #91, said, “The Elks are dedicated to serving families in our community and this is just one of many programs that fulfills our mission of service. The Elks National Drug Awareness Program is one of the largest volunteer drug awareness programs in the United States. We are committed to eliminating the use and abuse of illegal drugs in our society and believe it is essential that our children be raised in a drug-free environment. It is also important for us as Elks to continue to support our First Responders and provide our community with information for emergency preparedness.”

The Order of Elks is a fraternal order with nearly a million members and a 141 year history. Chattanooga Elks Lodge #91is among more than 2,000 lodges in communities all over the country. The Order gives generously each year through scholarships, youth activities, veterans programs and more. The Order was founded to promote and practice the four cardinal virtues of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity; to promote the welfare and enhance the happiness of its members; to quicken the spirit of American patriotism and cultivate good fellowship, it was stated.

Funding for this free community event is provided in part by a grant through the Elks National Foundation and charity funds raised locally through the Chattanooga Elks Lodge.

For more information, contact Chattanooga Elks Lodge #91 at (423) 894-8850.