Featured News - Current News - Archived News - News Categories

Grand Island Lion Tom Witkowski and Barker Lion President Dale Corwin. (Submitted)
Grand Island Lion Tom Witkowski and Barker Lion President Dale Corwin. (Submitted)

Lions clubs team up

Submitted

Mon, Jan 9th 2023 02:20 pm

Barker Lions learn about Brandel Murphy Youth Foundation

Submitted by the Barker Lions Club

Lion Tom Witkowski from the Grand Island Lions Club explained the Brandel Murphy Youth Foundation to the Barker Lions at a recent meeting.

He explained, “Al Brandel was Lions International president. After his term, he was given $40,000 to spend however he wished. He and his wife, Maureen Murphy, worked with children in different capacities. They decided to create a fund to help children. The core of the foundation is matching grants. A Lions Club finds a way to help children. It applies to Brandel Murphy for up to $2,000 of matching funds.”

Witkowski went on to explain some of the projects funded. The club has helped with the family room at the Family Justice Center on Grand Island, funded playgrounds and supported a special needs children’s picnic. The newest, and one of the largest projects, is a children’s room in a Syracuse diabetes center. While children are waiting for their appointments, they will have activities to keep them entertained.

A newer program is the “Everyday Hero” fellowship. It recognizes people who have performed miracles in everyday service. It is open to both Lions and non-Lions. For a $300 donation, someone is recognized for their service to the community.

Witkowski concluded by encouraging the club to think of ways to help children in Barker and then apply for a grant. Members can also check out the website www.BrandelMurphyFoundation.org.

Lion President Dale Corwin reminded club members about the upcoming pancake breakfast. Barker Lions will once again partner with the Barker Music Department. The event will be Sunday, Feb. 26, at the Barker Firehall. Food will be served from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 children 5-12. The menu will include pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage, toast, juice and coffee.

For more information about these programs, or any other Barker Lions events, email [email protected] or call 716-778-7001.

Hometown News

View All News