by Doreen Martel

Created on: July 26, 2009   Last Updated: January 19, 2012

Every day we are inundated with requests for money from charities. In these difficult economic times, most of us are most interested in those charities that are local and help the needy in our own communities. These charities exist, you merely need to find them. This isn't always the easiest endeavor because many charities that help the needy are hidden away and don't have the budgets to blow their own horns. Let's look at a charity that you might not even be aware is in your community.

An International Presence

Lions Clubs International - Founded in 1917 by a group of Chicago businessmen, the goal of Lions Clubs International has always been to serve. Lions serve all of mankind with a focus on those who are in need. By their mandate, Lions Clubs all over the world (located in 205 countries and geographic areas) raise money in their communities for one purpose. For helping those who are in need of their assistance.

Lions serve without a lot of fanfare. Men and woman all with a common goal of helping mankind. Lions Clubs International Foundation is the grant making arm of Lions Clubs International. With donations from private trusts, Lions Clubs and Lions all over the world, grants are offered for building schools, hospitals, rebuilding after national disasters and more.

Since 1925 when Helen Keller appeared at their convention, Lions have dedicated themselves to eradicating preventable blindness. They do this through a variety of programs including Sight First, Eyemobile's that are funded partially by Lions Clubs International and many other sight related projects. But, Lions doesn't stop there. Let's take a look at some of the things that happen on a local level.

On a local level

Lions Clubs individually are comprised by men and women who feel that they can do something good in their community. These Lions join together and raise money by hosting pancake breakfasts, black tie galas, carnivals and flipping thousands of hamburgers annually. Fund-raising is one of the most challenging aspects of running a Lions Club. All dues that are paid by members are used to pay administrative costs of the clubs. This is because each club agrees that one hundred percent of the money that is raised for charity in the community must be donated to charity.

Food pantries, heating funds, holiday gift funds, food baskets, eye glasses, hearing aids and more. Lions all over the world help those who need their assistance in any way they possibly can. Lions do not just donate money. Hundreds and thousands of hours of service are accrued every year by Lions who help sponsor blood drives, clean highways, build ramps for the disabled, clean yards and install air conditioners for the elderly.

There are many more things that Lions do in the community. Lions Clubs International is one of the charities that help the needy at home and abroad. Consider contacting your local Lions Club and learning more about the various ways they give back to the community.

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