Creating Local Materials

Developing Lodge-Specific Materials

While national DAP materials form the foundation of your program, there are times when locally-created materials can enhance your outreach. This lesson covers when and how to create supplemental materials.

When to Create Local Materials

Good Candidates for Local Creation

• Flyers for specific lodge events
• Thank-you cards for schools and partners
• Invitations to lodge DAP activities
• Local statistics or information supplements

What Should Stay National

• Core curriculum materials (What Heroes Do)
• Key prevention messages
• Items with specific medical or scientific content
• Materials representing DAP policy positions

Branding Guidelines

Any local materials should:

• Use approved DAP logos correctly
• Follow Elks branding standards
• Include appropriate disclaimers if required
• Maintain professional appearance

Getting Approval

• Check with your State Chair before creating custom materials
• Review with lodge leadership if representing the lodge
• Keep consistent with national messaging

Creating Effective Materials

Design Basics

• Keep it simple—less is more
• Use readable fonts and sizes
• Include contact information
• Proofread carefully

Content Guidelines

• Focus on local relevance (your lodge, your community)
• Avoid medical claims or statistics you cannot verify
• Use positive messaging over scare tactics
• Include a call to action

Cost-Effective Options

• Use free design tools (Canva, Google Docs templates)
• Print in-house for small quantities
• Partner with local printers for discounts
• Consider digital-only materials for some uses

Examples of Effective Local Materials

• Lodge DAP newsletter insert
• School presentation confirmation letter
• Event photo thank-you cards
• Local partner recognition certificates