The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation does more than benefit elk and elk hunters in the Mountain West. Since its inception in 1984, the organization has protected and enhanced more than 6 million acres and opened or secured more than 630,000 acres for public access; helped restore populations in Kentucky, Missouri, North Carolina and elsewhere in North America; and established more than 500 chapters featuring more than 181,000 members

The group also features busy chapters in Pennsylvania, where the mid-state elk herd is abundant and winning a permit in the annual elk is a goal for many.

You can help support the foundation by attending a fundraising banquet in northwestern Pennsylvania this month. Pick from one of two:

Northwest Pa. Chapter: March 17, 3:30 p.m., at Cross Creek Resort, 3815 Route 8, Titusville. For tickets and information, call Barbara L. Tobin (814) 425-7528.

French Creek Chapter: March 31, 4 p.m., Zem Zem Shrine Temple, 2525 W. 38th St. Includes chances on guns, hunting items and a Colorado elk Hunt.

Purchase tickets for either at rmefevents.rmef.org/shop.aspx.

Another banquet is coming up Sept. 29 in Meadville.