STAFF REPORTS
BARKER, N.Y. — In 1927, Helen Keller came to the Lions International Convention and said, “The Opportunity I bring you, Lions is this: To foster and sponsor the work of the American Foundation of the Blind. Will you not help me hasten the day when there shall be no preventable blindness; no little deaf, blind child untaught; no blind man or woman unaided? I appeal to you, Lions, you who have your sight, your hearing; you who are strong and brave and kind. Will you not constitute yourselves Knights of the Blind in this crusade against darkness? I thank you.”
Since that time, Lions have sought to aid those who need. Barker Lions are proud to continue this work. During the past year, Barker Lions have aided members of our community by providing hearing aids, eye exams and glasses for those who cannot afford them. The group also built ramps at homes for those with physical challenges.
In addition, the Club sponsored scholarships for graduating seniors who volunteered in our community, held a Halloween party for elementary school students, sponsored a Boy Scout troop and Little League team. Lions could also be found volunteering at the local food pantry, Tour de Cure, and at the Barker Homecoming Parade.
Our outreach into the community includes holding Pancake Breakfasts and Chicken Barbecues. The Club often partners with another organization such as the Barker Music Boosters or Foreign Language Club to aid their fundraising activities.
When asked why he is a Lion, Current Club President Kent Wakefield said, “This is my second time being President. I enjoy working with a group of people dedicated to helping those in our community. From providing eye glasses to helping the food pantry to distributing the items in our loan closet, we are doing what we can to help those who need it. At the same time, we have fun being together.”
The other current officers of the Barker Lions are Vice Presidents Tom Ware, Tim Leising, and Scott Ecker Secretary Matt Costello and Treasurer Jim Bittner.
If you would like to receive one of the flyers, contact the Lions at Roar@BarkerLions.org or call 716-778-7001. Donations can be mailed to PO BOX 123, Barker, NY 14012
We invite the members of our community to join us by volunteering for one of our projects, visiting or speaking at one of our meetings, making a donation and asking about membership. For more information about our activities, please check our website, www.BarkerLions.org or email Roar@BarkerLions.org.
