Elks Lodge No. 1969 is one of more than 2,000 such fraternal organizations serving the community through benevolence programs.
Programs include scholarships, youth activities and veterans outreach.
The Gurdwara Sikh Study Circle calls themselves the largest sikh congregation in the metro Atlanta area. Often confused with Islam and Hinduism, the Sikh religion is monotheistic and originated in northwest India. In addition to the worshiping hall, the congregation also has a health clinic and lodging for those that are visiting from out of town.
The DeKalb Community Service Board provides community mental health services for a variety of conditions, including depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. This group also provides substance abuse treatment and helps those with developmental disabilities. The organization has more than 20 DeKalb area locations, including four outpatient clinics.
The Barrett-Davis-Watson American Legion Post 233 in Loganville is the largest in the state and one of the most active in the nation. It also has an award winning Women's Auxiliary, which is very active in the community. The post is a major contributor to the area and donated the land for the West Walton Park ball fields. Regular Bingo evenings help raise funds for Post 233's contributions to the Loganville community as well as for veterans across the state.
Founded in 1865 by three former confederate soldiers at Virginia Military Institute in order to encourage reconciliation between citizens from both sides of the Civil War, Alpha Tau Omega embraces Christian principles as its guide. With more than 250 chapters and 200,000 members, ATO ranks among the largest and most active Greek organizations. At UGA since 1878, ATO contributes widely to the school's proud heritage -- the large white columned southern mansion of ATO is a landmark on South Milledge Avenue.
Its members are active in community-service activities, such as the Leonard Leadership Program, Order of Omega and Alumni Association. In two years ATO raised more than $35,000 for causes such as ugaMIRACLE, ugaHERO and Rally For Life benefiting the American Cancer Society. Created in 1986, the LeaderShape Institute was formed by ATO as a means to develop strong future leaders; it is widely recognized as one of the top programs of its kind.
This Knights of Columbus Catholic Center and event facility was opened by the Atlanta Council 660 in 1963. It is located on Buford Highway, about a half-mile east of Lenox Boulevard.
The facility features meeting rooms, lounges and a large ballroom that can accommodate up to 300 couples. The center is home to regular bingo events, monthly dances held by the Atlanta Ballroom Dance Club and dance events held by the Atlanta Cajun Zydeco Association.
