SPRINGFIELD – The Springfield Lions Club, known for its dedication to serving others, celebrated its 75th anniversary on the evening of Nov. 3 at Major Family Funeral Home on Mill Street. Springfield Mayor Sean VanGordon delivered opening remarks, emphasizing the Lions Club’s vital role in the community over the past 7 decades. The club, part of Lions Clubs International, with approximately 1.4 million members, has 30 local members who meet weekly on Mondays at Roaring Rapids Pizza at 4006 Franklin Blvd. Visitors are always welcome.
During the anniversary event, long-time members Herb DeVos, Lee Wacker, Ken Long, John Vogt, Dale Bachman, and Carol Casciato received special recognition for their years of dedicated service and contributions to numerous community projects. Lion President Henry Miller was acknowledged for his exemplary leadership, having served as president for seven years, while Jake Mylenek, the club’s newest member, was introduced to the audience.
Three speakers shared insights about the service of both past and present Lions. Lion Deb Nelson, representing the Oregon Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation, discussed vision screenings in schools. Lions 36R District Governor (DG) Karen Norton spoke about the importance of chartering clubs and how they maintain success over time. Past Council Chair (PCC) Lynn Coon highlighted the ongoing work and community service performed by the Springfield Lions.
A memorable video prepared by President Miller showcased past and present club members and their impact on the community. Attendees also viewed a display of memorabilia celebrating the club’s history.
Founded on Oct. 10, 1950, the Springfield Lions Club initially had 34 members and was sponsored by the Eugene Lions Club. The club has continued the legacy of founder Melvin Jones and later Helen Keller, who famously challenged Lions to become “knights of the blind in the crusade against darkness.” Supporting those in need by providing eyeglasses and hearing aids has been a cornerstone of the Lions’ mission since Keller’s challenge.
The Springfield Lions maintain a tradition of collecting used eyeglasses for distribution worldwide. Donated glasses are cleaned and calibrated for future use, and the club also assists local residents who are unable to afford eye exams and glasses. Individuals can receive eye exams and be fitted with glasses according to their needs, and Lions provides hearing aids to eligible applicants for a small co-payment.
The club actively serves the Springfield community and surrounding areas by focusing on eight key missions: hunger, vision, childhood cancer, diabetes, disaster relief, environment, youth, and humanitarian efforts. Springfield Lions engage in various events, including vision screenings for public elementary and middle schools, distributing American flags to first graders, road clean-up along McVay Highway, a plant sale before Mother’s Day, food drive assistance, and helping with fire relief efforts in McKenzie. They also collect bottles and cans to fund Veterans’ Honor Flights and conduct an annual raffle for a designated cause.
Always seeking new members, the Springfield Lions encourage those with a desire to help the community to join their ranks. Collaborations with organizations such as Willamalane, CASA, Bags of Love, and others help them maximize their impact.
More info: springfieldorlions.com and 541-554-5958.
