Mobile, Ala. (August 8, 2022) — On Friday, August 5, Visit Mobile welcomed over 2,000 attendees from around the world for the Improved Benevolent Protective Order of Elks of the World (I.B.P.O.E.W.) 121st Grand Lodge and 117th Grand Temple International Convention.
This city-wide convention will have an estimated economic impact of over $6 million dollars. From downtown Mobile to the uptown shopping district, over 6,000 hotel rooms will be occupied by the Elks through Saturday, August 13, resulting in a massive surge of business for local restaurants, retail shops, museums, and attractions.
“We’re excited to welcome the Elks to Mobile,” said David Clark, president and CEO of Visit Mobile. “It’s exciting to have our city filled with the buzz and energy that comes from group business. Our team works hard to bring these groups to the city and I’m proud that the Elks are here.”
In addition to convention activities, the Elks will give back to the local community through their Day of Service on Tuesday, August 9. Plans include partnering with Waterfront Rescue Mission to donate care packages that will consist of hygiene items and other necessities. In addition, the Elks will host a charity drive where they will collect clothes and give a monetary donation to benefit the Dearborn YMCA.
According to Leonard Polk, Jr., the Elks’ grand exalted ruler, “My goal and vision is to raise the profile of the organization and make a positive impact in communities where we have members.”
The Elks are one of the oldest African American fraternal organizations in the country, beginning in 1898. To learn more about the Elks, visit ibpoew.org.
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About Visit Mobile:
Visit Mobile is the official destination marketing organization responsible for attracting visitors and conventions to the Mobile area. To learn more about our historic destination and find out why Mobile is the city that’s Born to Celebrate, visit mobile.org. This convention and visitors bureau is an accredited Destination International Marketing Organization.
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Visit Mobile: Andrew Felts; C: 251.333.8621; afelts@mobile.org
I.B.P.O.E.W.: Tyshaunda Wiley; C: 860-874-3691; E: tyshaunda.wiley@gmail.com
