Applicants, including the spouse in the case of couples, must be members in good standing of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks for at least five consecutive years at the time of application to the Elks National Home. (This tenure requirement may be waived for qualified members by unanimous vote of the Board of Grand Trustees.)

      Applicants must be retired from full-time employment.

      Each prospective resident must submit a completed Application for Apartment Residency, Medical Doctor's Certificate, a copy of your current Elks membership card, and Confidential Financial Statement.

      Prospective residents must undergo a physical examination to demonstrate they are physically and mentally capable of caring for themselves without assistance or supervision.

      Prospective residents must provide financial information to demonstrate they have sufficient assets and income to be financially self-supporting.

      Incomplete forms will delay processing and approval of your application.

Of the apartments that are occupied, here is what some of the residents have to say:

" My primary reason for moving into an apartment was the security it offered -- but the rewards have exceeded my expectations. Having spent the past twenty-five years living alone, it is most pleasant to share the evening meal with newly-made friends. I like the activities offered while still being able to continue enjoying my former circle of friends. The apartment itself meets my needs - is spacious and comfortable. I feel at home since I could use my own furnishings. All in all, I think I made a wise move."

- Belle English

Ms. Belle English is a member of Bedford, VA #2844. She was one of the very first apartment residents, moving in on November 22, 1999.

"Moving into the Elks Retirement Home in Bedford, Virginia was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Friendly, loving and caring atmosphere pervades throughout these living quarters.

Thoughtful attention is given to the comfort, happiness, and well-being for each person, whether he or she lives in an apartment, a residential room or in the special care facility. You have your privacy, too, if you wish, or can enter into the many extra-curricular activities that have been planned.

The interaction with the community also gives one a feeling of being at home in the beautiful surroundings of this delightful, small city of Bedford.

New friends are made, too, for many of the retirees are from other areas of our country. All are members of the Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks; therefore, the ideals and goals of this organization are always before them creating this feeling of being family."

-Frances Owen

     Ms. Frances Owen is a member of Bedford, VA #2844. A retired teacher, Frances contributes occasionally to the local newspaper, The Bedford Bulletin.