Ways To Connect And Serve In Your Community

     I am so pleased to see how many of the clubs and Lions of District O are actively serving their community this fall!   One popular place to serve is your local school.  Many Lions used to spend a lot of hours volunteering to help with vision screening.  Lions are still ready to help but there are some things that change the way Lions are able to interact with a school.

     As vision screening methods changed and schools began increasing security features due to shootings and the pandemic, the number of volunteers needed and the method of signing up to help changed.  Most schools do still need and welcome volunteers and other support - however, they likely limit the number of people and require background checks.  Call your school to find out if you need a background check and how long it will last.  This will ensure you are able to sign up to help when it is time for screenings.

     When you call, ask about other ways to volunteer that will connect your club with the school and community.   Do they have a food pantry, clothes closet or need winter clothes like hats, gloves and coats?  As I've been out screening at schools, I've seen needs for paint, yard clean up, new trees.  Have you considered finding a local school that needs a garden or fresh flowers?

     Finally, remember our Lions programs like Quest, Smart and of course the Peace Poster contest for your 11 to 13 year old students.  All great ways to connect and serve in your community.  All of these provide opportunities to serve and to build connections with families, school staff and other community groups.  Together we can!