See the full gallery on Posterous

The Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) has received donations or commitments exceeding $6 million, including $3 million that the Lions of Japan are working to raise themselves during their own crisis.

With the expected death toll now exceeding 18,000 and rising, the devastation is clearly greater than anyone could have imagined. And more than 400,000 people are still in shelters, in the cold, often going without a hot meal for days on end.

While many of you have already generously donated, please encourage your friends to also donate by visiting www.lcif.org/donate. Please know that every donation will be put to careful use, and 100 percent will go to the cause.

 

Permalink | Leave a comment  »

See the full gallery on Posterous

Lions from around the world and alongside our clubs in Japan are responding to the devastating earthquake and tsunami with aid and assistance for the thousands of people in need.

Within hours of the disaster, Lions Clubs International Foundation committed over US$1.25 million, or 100 million Japanese Yen, for immediate relief for Japan. This includes a major catastrophe grant, six emergency grants and designated donations from Lions worldwide. Lions also established a designated fund for Lions to directly support this disaster.

To help the thousands, maybe millions, in need, we need your help. Read this appeal from Eberhard J. Wirfs, Chairperson, Lions Clubs International Foundation:

We need to do more. You know firsthand that in the case of disasters, Lions are committed for as long as it takes. Our simple motto "We Serve" does not stop at a community or country border but extends to every corner where there is need. Our hands are building bridges for a better tomorrow.

I ask for your help in making the hope for a brighter tomorrow for those who so urgently need from us. The most immediate way to give hope is through a designated donation to LCIF.

Your financial support of earthquake and tsunami relief is critical the meeting the immediate and long terms needs of the most vulnerable families. Please consider supporting LCIF for this initiative and being a part of building that bridge of hope for those who are suffering.

With cordial regards,

Eberhard J. Wirfs, Chairperson, Lions Clubs International Foundation 

Would you like to help? Visit www.lcif.org/donate to make your donation today.

Permalink | Leave a comment  »

Our twice-monthly meetings are informal gatherings where club members reflect on past service projects, plan for upcoming activities, and receive information on service programs happening in our community and regionally through the Lions Club. We often welcome guest speakers from local business, government, or other community and service organizations.

We are a casual, bi-lingual, diverse, service-focused club, and would love to have you join us in serving and bettering the Azusa community. Visitors are always welcome. If you’d like more information about location, time, and our club, please call Shannon at 626.484.1139 or send email to information@azusalions.org.

Permalink | Leave a comment  »

See the full gallery on Posterous

You have likely been following the news reports of the devastating earthquake in Christchurch, New Zealand. Much of the city is without water and sewerage systems and aftershocks continue. Thousands have been left homeless as a result of the destruction.

Lions have been providing assistance since the devastating earthquake February 22, and LCIF is providing $110,000 to help Lions in providing relief to their communities. If you’d like to help make the hope for a brighter tomorrow a reality for the people of New Zealand, the most effective and immediate way to help is through a designated donation to LCIF for New Zealand relief.

Since the quake, here’s what the Lions have been up to:

Lions in the area are committed to helping their neighbors, despite many being affected themselves. At an emergency meeting of the Earthquake Committee last night, there was one Lion who had damage to his house, his place of work was closed, he had no power, water or sewerage connections, yet was still attending a Lions meeting to see how he could assist the citizens of Christchurch. This exemplifies Lions' "We Serve" motto.

The Lions Club’s greatest asset is its volunteers- 1.35 million of them around the world. Wherever there is a need, there is a Lions club nearby, ready to respond with their hearts and hands. In the case of disasters, we are the first to offer help, and the last to leave. From New Zealand to Haiti to Pakistan, Lions are rebuilding homes and lives.

Permalink | Leave a comment  »

Permalink | Leave a comment  »

Let's Tackle Hunger Together!

Every day, over one billion people worldwide go hungry

In the Los Angeles area alone, over 400,000 children face hunger. Over the next few months, Lions from all around Los Angeles have an opportunity to do something about it! In partnership with the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, we are answering the call of our International President to confront the issue of hunger in our communities.

By joining together, we have the opportunity to:

We will be driving this effort through a specially designed website, press releases in papers throughout the region, and a focused social media effort. Participating clubs will be asked only to help promote the cause to their members and community. No resources or significant volunteer time is needed.

Click here to read more about this Global Initiative.

We’re “building the plane in the air” in answer to the president’s challenge and the unique opportunities of the holiday season and potential Rose Parade coverage. If you or your club would like more information, please email questions and contact information to information@azusalions.org or contact Shannon Barnes at 626.484.1139.

Permalink | Leave a comment  »

See the full gallery on Posterous

The Azusa Canyon City Lions club co-sponsored (with the City of Azusa) a high-flying BMX event with a message – bicycle and helmet safety. Over 400 people came to enjoy the tricks, food and goods from Bambino’s Pizza and Pasta, Max’s Mexican Cuisine, Starbucks Coffee Company, LA Fitness, Delong Unlimited, and Nana’s Gelateria. Plus, our club gave away over 100 free helmets to Azusa’s kids, and took orders for 150 more!

Our thanks to our 2010-2011 sponsor, Vulcan Materials, and our other generous businesses and donors for making this event and give-a-away possible!

Permalink | Leave a comment  »

On October 16, the Azusa Canyon City Lions co-sponsored and hosted a helmet safety event for children and families in the Azusa community. Over 400 people attended the event, and the club distributed free bike helmets to kids 18 and younger.

To get a taste of the event – and some of the really cool BMX jumps and tricks performed – check out this great video shot and assembled by professional photographer (and Lions Club member!) Steve Castro of Eagle Photography.

Permalink | Leave a comment  »

See the full gallery on Posterous

Our club provided over 50 free eye screenings and many more blood pressure tests at this year’s Golden Days Carnival. The Lions EyeMobile provides a mobile optometrists office and allows for accurate screenings.

We were thrilled to be joined by Drs. Ed and Diane Hernandez, O.D. (www.edhernandez4senate.com) at the event. Both of them volunteered their time to conduct free eye exams for some very lucky Azusans. J

Our thanks to our 2010-2011 sponsor, Vulcan Materials, for making this community service possible!

Permalink | Leave a comment  »

See the full gallery on Posterous

We had a ton of fun at this year’s Golden Days Parade! Our thanks to the friends and family that joined us in the parade route, to all those who waved and applauded as we walked down San Gabriel avenue, and to Ralph Munoz, Albert Lopez, and Domenic Valentino for lending us the beautiful cars and driving them during the parade.

We’re looking forward to next year!

Permalink | Leave a comment  »

Here are the results of our “Campaign for 1,000 Pairs”:

The funds we receive from recycling these items will fund eye care services for kids and needy citizens in the Azusa community.

Our thanks to everyone who donated/participated!

Permalink | Leave a comment  »

Our thanks to the greater Azusa community for your support!

Permalink | Leave a comment  »

For decades, Lions have been leaders in sight-related causes. Here’s a moving video about what kind of life change vision services can bring to people of all ages!

Your financial support or donations of your old useable-condition glasses will help us provide eye exams, glasses, and other vital vision services to Azusa children, seniors, and other citizens in need. Thank you!

Permalink | Leave a comment  »

LIONS Business Mixer (Sep2110).pdf Download this file

• Business and community networking 
• Outstanding food and drinks 
• PIG RACES!
• Raffle prizes
• The chance to support a great community charity

Our friends at Canyon City Barbeque will be hosting and graciously providing the food and beverages (beer and wine is available for purchase). Cost is just $8, and all proceeds and donations will go to benefit the positive personal and teambuilding work of Azusa National Little League.

Lions will also be collecting useable-condition glasses, cell phones, and used printer cartirges for the Campaign for 1,000 Pairs! Bring personal donations, or collect donations from others in your company or place of business.

To RSVP, contact the Azusa Chamber of Commerce at 626.334.1507 or send email to information@azusalions.org.

Permalink | Leave a comment  »

Campaign for 1,000 Pairs.pdf Download this file

Support the Azusa Canyon City Lions effort to collect 1,000 pairs of useable-condition glasses, mobile phones, and printer cartridges! All donations will help support the eye care needs (exams, glasses, medical procedures and surgeries) of needy Azusa citizens.

You can drop your donations at the following locations:

1. Proforma Quality Printing, 680 East Alosta Avenue #102, Azusa, CA 91702, 626.969.3997
2. Express Tire and Auto, 633 N San Gabriel Avenue, Azusa, CA 91702, 626.334.8700
3. Citrus Optometry, 924 N Citrus Avenue, Covina, CA 91722, 626.331.2020

Glasses, phones, and printer cartridges can also be mailed to the Azusa Canyon City Lions Club, PO Box 82, Azusa, CA 91702. Email information@azusalions.org for additional information.

This is an ambitious goal, but we can do it…together! Print copies of the flyer and invite your family and friends to clean out their dresser drawers and help change local lives! Collection ends October 10, 2010.

Permalink | Leave a comment  »

Thousands of times every month, Lions clubs provide eyeglasses to people who need them.

It is a small deed with enormous impact. When the Lions give someone a pair of eyeglasses, the gift is bigger than just two lenses and a frame, says George Walter, a South Daytona, Florida, property manager who received glasses from the Lions in 1954. They opened up a whole new world.

“I didn’t realize what I couldn’t see until I got glasses,” Walter says. “All of a sudden things other people took for granted, like bees and flowers, I could see.”

Read stories from some grateful recipients of Lion’s Vision Services.

All stories written by Maria Blackburn.

And after you read a few of the stories, join the effort - contribute to our Campaign for 1,000 Pairs today!

The Lions Club collects more than 5 million pairs of eyeglasses annually and distributes them to more than 3 million people in developing nations. Additionally, monies are provided for vision services and new glasses for needy people at home. You can make a difference in the life of a vision-impaired person. Donate your glasses today!

If you or someone you know needs vision assistance, please email us at information@azusalions.org with your name, contact information, and specfics about your need. Thanks!

Permalink | Leave a comment  »

Permalink | Leave a comment  »

Permalink | Leave a comment  »

Contribute to our Campaign for 1,000 Pairs today!

Much of Susanna Zaraysky’s life has been defined by two things: Her vision problems and her ease at picking up new languages.

Her eyesight was an issue from the beginning.

Zaraysky was born in Leningrad and diagnosed with such severe strabismus (crossed eyes) that at the age of two she was placed in a school for developmentally disabled children. Her parents, both engineers, immigrated to the United States with their two daughters in search of better jobs and by 1985 they were living in San Jose, California.

Zaraysky, then 9 and in fifth grade, had a wandering eye and astigmatism and wore round, thick, Coke-bottle glasses. “All the kids made fun of me,” she says. When her parents were between jobs and she needed new glasses, they asked her school, Eisenhower Elementary, for help and Zaraysky received a voucher from her local Lions club for a new pair of glasses with an updated prescription. “It was so important that I got them,” she says.

Zaraysky’s father was not fluent in English and as a child she was often asked to serve as their interpreter. She picked up languages quickly, capable of copying accents well enough to sound like a native speaker. “I felt like the unwilling guide in the Tower of Babel,” she says. “I found myself interpreting for others and often being the only person who could understand almost everybody.”

As a teen she had surgery to correct her wandering eye and traded in her glasses for contacts. She graduated from college, worked and traveled. Along the way, Zaraysky became fluent in seven languages, never fully understanding why languages came so easily to her. Then at the age of 29 she discovered the answer. Zaraysky realized that could only see in 2D not 3D, and her limited vision made her hearing very sensitive. That sensitivity, coupled with the realization that she heard language as music not as words, was the source of her talent. “It’s as though my ears are the third dimension that I don’t have with my vision,” explains Zaraysky.

She has made peace with her imperfect vision and no longer sees it as a disability. Just recently she wrote and published a book, Language is Music (Kaleidomundi, 2009) , in which she offers advice on learning foreign languages. “I have this ability to listen and to communicate that most people don’t have,” Zaraysky says. “It’s as though I’ve turned lemons into lemonade.”

The Lions Club has a huge eyeglass recycling program, collecting more than 5 million pairs of eyeglasses annually and distributing them to more than 3 million people in developing nations. Donating your old or unused glasses provides life-changing vision services for needy people all around the world. You can make a difference in the life of a vision-impaired person. Donate your glasses today!

Permalink | Leave a comment  »

Contribute to our Campaign for 1,000 Pairs today!

As a lifelong resident of Naperville, George Pradel has watched his community blossom from a sleepy country town with 4,500 residents to a bustling city of 147,000 people that regularly ranks as one of the best places to live in the United States.

Pradel is proud of his city, its walkable downtown and excellent schools, and since he became mayor 15 years ago, he’s had ample opportunity to share Naperville with people he meets. What truly makes his city special, he Likes to say, is the people who live there. That’s something he learned more than 60 years ago.

Back in 1947 Pradel was one of 30 students in Naperville’s Bronsonville Elementary, a one-room red brick school house. The fifth grader’s “lazy eye” vision made the words in his schoolbooks run together, and when his teacher Irene Kocher noticed he was struggling, she told his mother she thought he might need glasses.

The news was troubling. “Times were tough and my dad was not making very much money, maybe only $45 a week,” he says. The family of six was growing quickly and Pradel knew they didn’t have an extra $15 for glasses.

But Miss Kocher knew what to do. “I have a friend who is a Lion and we’re going to submit your name for glasses,” she told him. Within a few weeks, Pradel was wearing his first pair of glasses nonstop. “They weren’t real pretty but they were practical,” he says of the thick brown and clear plastic frames. “I was so tickled I wore them every chance I got.” Shortly after Pradel joined the town’s police force in 1966, his friend Everett Gregory invited him to join the Naperville Noon Lions Club. He didn’t need to think twice. “Because of what the Lions have done for me I wanted to give back in a big way.” During the last forty years, he’s raised money for the Lions and participated actively in the club. He has a special affinity for the annual 5K road race the Lions sponsor in Naperville, which drew almost 5,000 runners last year.

While writing about the upcoming race in the city newsletter a few years ago, Pradel shared that the Lions had bought him his first pair of glasses. “I have no shame about that,” he confessed. “The Lions club is so friendly to everyone and has done so much for our city, I just wanted people to know how much the Lions mean to me.”

The Lions Club has a huge eyeglass recycling program, collecting more than 5 million pairs of eyeglasses annually and distributing them to more than 3 million people in developing nations. Donating your old or unused glasses provides life-changing vision services for needy people all around the world. You can make a difference in the life of a vision-impaired person. Donate your glasses today!

Permalink | Leave a comment  »