Since the 1930s when Chugiak-Eagle River was founded, the once tiny settlement has flourished. Dirt paths have become roads, and empty land is populated with homes.

Today, CER has grown into a successful community. Much of this success can be attributed to the tireless efforts of volunteer organizations that have taken root here. Without these organizations, many of the things we take for granted would disappear.

Lions Club

The Lions Club has been a contributing to our area since its founding in 1962. Their primary goal has been service to others. They host a variety of events from a 3rd of July Extravaganza, an annual Easter Egg Hunt, and Thanksgiving and Christmas baskets for those in need. The Lions also provide our community with a 40-acre park where programs like Pop Warner and Chinook Little League play.

Lions Club volunteers organize and hold fundraisers to provide for those in need. Whether they are helping a struggling family or collecting eyeglasses to be recycled, their motto, “We Serve” describes them well. This upcoming year they are looking forward to working with ASD administration to implement a drug awareness program in our schools.

Want to make a difference with the Lions?

The Lions Club is currently looking for new members. Call (907) 694-9123 for more information.

Eagle River Rotary

Rotary Lodge #5010 has been a part of Eagle River since 1978. The club focuses mainly on youth services and education and giving kids a brighter future. They have worked with the Boys and Girls Club to replace the basketball court. They sponsored Nerf Battle Royale with proceeds going to replace the town square Christmas tree. Within our community they have held several Spruce Up events and cleanups at the Nature Center. The rotary also built the first all access playground in Eagle River.

They donate over $1200 in books to school libraries every year. They recognize excellence in students and teachers and recognize the improvements struggling students have made as well. They run a “choices” program for eighth graders that shows students how the choices they make can greatly impact their futures. They also give four $1500 scholarships every year to help further the education of graduates going into academic or vocational schools.  

Want to make a difference with the Rotary?

August is new members month! The Eagle River Rotary meets Thursdays at 7 am at the Bear Mountain Grill and noon at Piccolino’s. Join us any Thursday or call: (907) 862-0319

Elks Lodge

Elks Lodge #2682 has been active in Eagle River since 1984. Their focus is service to others. This year they have contributed to improvements at the Boys and Girls Club, organized a fundraiser through the Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, and donated to several local school programs; including Chugiak Culinary Arts Prostart and Gruening Middle School Robotics.

The Elks Lodge is also focused on helping veterans. The Alaska State Elks Wounded Veterans Project supports the needs of severely injured service men and women.  The Elks also helps with VA clinics across the state and supports JBER’s Fisher House.

Want to make a difference with the Elks?

They are after members who value community, service to those in need and have a strong sense of leadership. Elks Lodge: (907)694-3557

These organizations do so much for our town; one can’t help but wonder what would have happened if they had never been formed. Eagle River would likely not have a town square or the sports fields. Students would have fewer educational opportunities, and those in need would not be able to get help.

Thank you to all of our Lions, Rotary and Elks club members for all you do for our community!

Jasmyn Bednar is a participant in our internship program created for high school students interested in writing and journalism. If you are interested in an internship, please contact: editor@echoak.com