The motto of Lions International, the largest service organization in the world, is “We Serve”. It is made up of group of very dedicated volunteers who serve their communities through their local clubs. Together, there are projects that range in scope from global, national, provincial, district, city, and community.

Because of a partnership and pledge made with Helen Keller many years ago, a lot of Lions projects have to do with sight. Sight First I and Sight First II are examples of efforts to help end blindness worldwide. Canadian Dog Guides provides seeing-eye dogs to those who qualify. B.A.I.T. (Blind Anglers International Tournament) provides a recreational opportunity to those with low vision. Some local Lions Clubs do vision screening in their elementary schools, and other schools benefit from the No Child Without Medic-Alert program.

Service areas are not restricted to vision. They include Health Care, with Camp Dorset, a camp for dialysis patients; and education, with Effective Speaking contests. The Club has been involved in various service activities that benefit the Cumberland community and surrounding areas by way of financial assistance as well as providing volunteer help. The Club holds several fund raising events throughout the year (e.g. Maplefest, Heritage Power & Country Festival, Purina Dog Walk, Farmer’s Market BBQ’s, Regular Breakfasts, Christmas Party, New Year’s Eve Party) to mention a few. The net proceeds received from these events are returned back into the community through the projects the Club supports. Periodically, the Club is called upon to assist with community events. This is done in a number of ways like providing a BBQ, operating a Bar, bingos for seniors, volunteer work at the RCMP musical ride and similar events. The Cumberland Lions Club also owns a Hall which is used by non-profit organizations for their activities. Rentals are also made available to the public for various functions.

In summary, the fundraising and service activities of the Cumberland Lions Club allow the Club to continue to support both the local community and the global community to make a better living environment for all.

Executive

2009-2010 Executive