In 1927, Helen Keller came to the Lions International Convention and said, "The opportunity I bring you, Lions, is this: To foster and sponsor the work of the American Foundation of the Blind. Will you not help me hasten the day when there shall be no preventable blindness; no little deaf, blind child untaught; no blind man or woman unaided? I appeal to you, Lions, you who have your sight, your hearing; you who are strong and brave and kind. Will you not constitute yourselves Knights of the Blind in this crusade against darkness? I thank you."
Since that time, Lions have sought to aid those who need.
The Barker Lions Club is proud to continue this work. During the past year, Barker Lions have aided members of the community by providing hearing aids, eye exams and glasses for those who cannot afford them. The group also built ramps at homes for those with physical challenges.
In addition, the club sponsored scholarships for graduating seniors who volunteered in the community, held a Halloween party for elementary school students, and sponsored a Boy Scout troop and Little League team. Lions could also be found volunteering at the local food pantry, Tour de Cure, and at the Barker Homecoming Parade.
Outreach into the community also includes holding pancake breakfasts and chicken barbecues. The Lions often partner with another organization, such as the Barker Music Boosters or Foreign Language Club, to aid in fundraising activities.
Current Club President Carl Stoloski said, "When I moved to this area, I was invited to a meeting. I felt welcome and a part of the group immediately. The projects we do help so many people. From providing eyeglasses to helping the food pantry to distributing the items in our loan closet, we've done what we can to improve our community. At the same time, we have fun being together."
Current officers include vice presidents Kent Wakefield, Tom Ware and Tim Leising, Secretary Matt Costello and Treasurer Jim Bittner.
To receive a club flyer, email the Lions at
[email protected] or call 716-778-7001. Donations can be mailed to PO Box123, Barker, NY 14012
Members of the community are invited to join the Lions by volunteering for a project, visiting or speaking at one of the meetings, making a donation or asking about membership. For more information, visit www.BarkerLions.org or email
[email protected].
