The Elks Retirement Home, often referred to as the "Crown Jewel of Elkdom," is located in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains of Bedford, Virginia, and is a retirement community for Elks Members, both male and female, as well as married couples and singles. The "Home," as it is affectionately known, has often been described as the "Best Kept Secret" in Elkdom.

The Home is beautiful, most effectively combining classic and Spanish Mission architecture. In its magnificent setting, the first view compels an admiration that grows as you approach the main entrance of imposing Grecian design. From the portico is seen a bronze Elk statue. Beyond are the well-kept lawns and golf course. The D-Day National Memorial can be seen in the distance.

Three buildings have single rooms and two-room suites with private baths, central air and other modern conveniences. Four buildings were renovated in 1999 to provide apartment-style living for Elk couples as well as single Members. To the rear of the Administration Building is an additional building with private rooms and the "Special Care" section for those who need assistance.

In the main building are the administrative offices, library, recreation and television rooms, and barber shop. In the "rec" room, residents enjoy cards, indoor shuffleboard and pool. A well-equipped woodworking shop and many individual hobby rooms are available for the residents. Recent renovations include the lobby and main dining room, both beautifully redecorated, as is the glassed-in veranda that surrounds the dining room. The food service is of the best quality, and menus are changed daily. All meals are well-balanced and prepared in the kitchen by skilled cooks directed by a dietitian. Special diets are provided as prescribed by any resident.

An outdoor shuffleboard and executive golf course are located on the front lawn. The home has a bus and van, and regular trips are scheduled to nearby Lynchburg and Roanoke, as well as for shopping.Transportation is also provided for Sunday morning church services, and a non-denominational service is held at the Home on Thursdays.

The beautiful facility, and its amenities, is the single benefit we as an Order provide for our membership as they decline in age and search for living arrangements that fit their personal and financial situation. Today, there are many retirement facilities in most communities – many opportunities to find a home – many choices, but this one is unique – Built for Elks by Elks.

For many years now our beautiful "Home" has been under pressure to become self-sustaining or possibly to cease operation. Closing our beloved "Home" would be sad for all of Elkdom and the end of an era of service to our own and the Bedford community that dates back well over 100 years. It is time for all Lodges, Associations and Members to rally behind this wonderful piece of our heritage to keep it alive and well.

Please utilize your Lodge bulletins to get the message to your Lodge Members that they have a beautiful home available to them for an active and fulfilling retirement. Let us be certain that no Elk is deprived of the opportunity to enjoy the comfort, security and companionship to be found at the Elks National Home.

Let our beautiful Elks National Retirement Center be a constant reminder of the Order’s commitment to our senior Members.

For more information, please contact:
Executive Director
Elks National Home
931 Ashland Avenue
Bedford, Virginia 24523-1399
Phone: (800) 552-4140 • Fax: (540) 586-2096
enhome@aol.com