On December 13, 2025, Arizona Elk Society proudly hosted our annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon, welcoming more than 100 dedicated volunteers for a day centered on gratitude, connection, and celebration.
Everything we do is possible because of our volunteers. Their dedication, time, and passion allow us to make a real difference for wildlife, youth, and veterans across Arizona. This luncheon was our opportunity to pause, reflect, and say a heartfelt thank you.
AES staff and board members were honored to serve lunch to our volunteers, creating a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The afternoon included a fun slideshow highlighting moments from the year, games, exciting prize drawings, special awards, and plenty of laughs—all focused on celebrating the people who make our mission possible.
One of the highlights of the day was recognizing volunteers who went above and beyond in 2025.
Volunteer of the Year and 200 Hour Club
We were proud to honor Jim Lahage as our Volunteer of the Year. Jim was also the only volunteer to surpass 200 hours of service this year—an incredible achievement that speaks volumes about his dedication and commitment to Arizona Elk Society.
We also celebrated volunteers who reached the impressive milestone of 100 hours of service:
Special recognition was given to the following volunteers for their outstanding contributions:
Every volunteer—whether contributing a few hours or hundreds—plays a vital role in our success. We are incredibly grateful to each person who shows up, pitches in, and believes in our mission.
Thank you to all of our volunteers for everything you do. Arizona Elk Society is stronger because of you.
Our next Wild in the City is February 21, 2026. There are still spots left! Tell your friends and sign up today. Better yet, sign up to volunteer and help the kids have an awesome day.
If you have questions, please email Lindsay
lindsayl@arizonaelksociety.org or click below to sign up
It's that time of year again! Grab your buddies and come out to play golf for a great cause. This tournament benefits our HRO veteran program. It will be at Legacy Golf Club in Phoenix February 13, 2026. There are still sponsor opportunities as well! Click below for more information and to sign up. Hope to see you there!
Your donation dollars at work! This picture is from August 19th in Northern Arizona. AES volunteers are the boots on the ground delivering water throughout Arizona. Please consider volunteering or donating today. We live in the desert. It's all about the water!
Water during the birthing season keep the mothers healthy and helps the mothers produce better quality milk and more of it for the newborns.
Water helps distribute the Elk herds and other wildlife for better utilization of the available forage. Insufficient water distribution causes wildlife to gather in specific areas, leading to excessive habitat use. This overutilization results in habitat degradation and a depletion of available food resources.
There are many areas with great habitat for wildlife but no water to sustain them. If we could increase water in areas of quality wildlife habitat and forage we can sustain more wildlife. Higher herd numbers equals more tags for hunters.
It doesn't get much prettier than this! Our water haulers have been busy keeping the catchments filled. OVER 225,000 gallons so far this year. How can you help?
Do you believe in leaving a long-lasting outdoor legacy for future generations? 
Arizona's conservation leader
