ZEPHYRHILLS LIONS CLUB Serving The Community For Over 80 Years
SUSAN SLATER
Making a difference everyday, everywhere.
The Lions Clubs, a legacy of service, began in 1917, with a commitment to address unfulfilled needs in their communities. The Zephyrhills Lions Club has stood as a pillar of support in this community for over eighty years.
The club’s biggest fundraising effort revolves around their Bingo on Tuesdays and Fridays. This initiative has funded significant projects allowing them to sustain their vital sight programs. Vision and diabetes testing is held on the second Thursday of the month.
Members of the club are recognized as “Knights of Helen Keller,” challenged by Helen Keller to address sight-related issues. Through their foundation, they aid eye care, surgeries, extending hope and healing to those who lack access to such services due to no insurance.
The Lions are also helping the community with sandwiches and assembling hygiene kits in donated eye glass cases. In partnering with Marion Smith Florist and the Church on Chancey, these items are distributed to the homeless providing much needed assistance.
One of the most heartwarming projects is the opportunity to foster a future guide dog for the Freedom Guide Dog School. For eighteen months, Kathy Doody leads Leah’s journey of learning basic commands and human socialization, preparing her for a potential future in service to someone in need. The members gave Leah a puppy shower to meet her needs like food, toys, etc.
“We are not just a check-writing service,” said Christine Malone, President. The Lions inspire a culture of giving and connection within the community.
The Lions also operate disaster relief efforts, aid and supplies, contribute to local schools, Pediatric Cancer, Food and Health, and Mental Health. Children with cancer are provided with coloring books, squishy toys, reading materials, schoolbooks, stickers, and blankets, for comfort during treatments.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, the club provided water, cleaning supplies, food, and diapers as well as offering hands-on support distributing meals, lemonade, and MREs.
This year the Zephyrhills Lions will be hosting the upcoming 107th International Convention in Orlando. While most Lions Clubs are afforded seven years to prepare for hosting, the Zephyrhills Lions will be organizing it in seven months.
Another highlight was the club’s fundraising initiative for the recent State Convention, the “Quarter Wars.” Members contributed their change, raising $2,000. At the convention they received a recognition award for raising the most money and their growth, adding ten new members.
The Lions’ fundraising efforts extend beyond traditional humanitarian activities. Embracing events that entertain and engage the community aids in supporting their vital causes. Their impressive space with a sizable stage has become a hub for cultural and social gatherings like theatrical performances, concerts, and the Sy Fy Florida Invasion.
“These partnerships help bring more awareness to help the community,” noted Rod Wright. “We plant seeds and are always open for people who want to serve the community in any way.”
“Where there is a need, there is a Lion.” ©
