The design of this issue honored the Benevolent and Protectorate Order of Elks (BPOE) in observance of its centennial year and the expansion of its youth service program. The BPOE is one of many fraternal societies in the United States, societies that are private, voluntary associations of persons with shared interests. As nonprofit organizations they serve a social function, but also often have civic or benevolent purposes in the tradition of their 16th century forerunners, the English "friendly societies."