STRIDES: LIONS WALK FOR DIABETES AWARENESS
Program Summary:
LCI established the Diabetes Awareness Program in 1984 to assist Lions in conducting and supporting local and large-scale efforts leading to the control and treatment of diabetes and its complications through education, prevention and control and research. The Strides Walk Program was initiated in 2006 to provide Lions with a club, district or multiple district activity to further promote diabetes awareness and generate public participation. The multiple district and district diabetes chairpersons play an integral role in supporting and promoting diabetes awareness events.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I begin to organize a Strides Walk?
Simply order the Strides Walk Information Packet (US$5.00) from Health & Children's Services Dept. (or download from the Web site) and form a committee of at least five (5) Lions to plan and organize a club or district event.
Can a Strides Walk be used as a fundraiser?
Yes, the utilization of the earned funds is at the discretion of the participating club(s) or district. Funds may benefit local projects, such as diabetes programs, camps, or schools or individuals in need of diabetes medical supplies.
Where can I get the Strides Walk logo?
It can be downloaded from the Web site for use on your Strides Walk banner, press releases, community announcements, tee shirts, etc.
Important Dates:
• November: Diabetes Awareness Month
• November 14: World Diabetes Day
Contact:
K D Agarwal
9831046538
kdagarwal@vsnl.net
Lions Environmental Photo Contest
Program Summary: Adopted in 2004-05, the Lions Environmental Photo Contest illustrates the beauty of the environment.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How does the contest work?
Lions clubs organize a contest to select the best Lions photo of the environment in their community. The winning club-level photo advances to the district competition. Winning district-level photos advance to the multiple district. Winning multiple district entries advance to the international competition. Multiple district entries are matted and displayed at the Lions international convention. Convention attendees judge the photos.
What are the photo categories?
Plant, animal, landscape, weather phenomena, and a special annual theme are the five photo categories. Can outside photographers enter the contest?
No. Only Lions can enter the contest.
Can I purchase the photos?
Yes, the multiple district entries are available for purchase through a silent auction at the convention. Funds are donated to LCIF. A select group of multiple district photos appear in an annual Lions Environmental Photo Contest Calendar (IAD 222).
Important Dates:
• January 15 – suggested deadline for districts to submit one entry to the multiple district
• March 1- deadline for multiple districts to submit one entry to Lions International
• Lions international convention - voting of multiple district entries by convention
attendees.
Contact:
DC - Environment & awareness of Global Warming
Mool Chand Daga
9830005447
mcdaga01@gmail.com
LIONS GREEN TEAM
Program Summary: Adopted by the board in June 2008, the Lions Green Team Program encourages the fulfillment of the Association's 1972 commitment to preserving the environment. Lions clubs, districts, and multiple districts can organize high-visibility “hands-on” Lions Green Team projects. Frequently Asked Questions:
What are a few examples of Lions Green team projects?
A community clean-up, planting trees, recycling efforts, or environmental education projects.
How can the Lions identity appear on a Lions Green Team project?
Lions can wear Lions-logo apparel to publicize the Lions environmental action. A large Lions-logo sign or banner at the project location can further inform the community. Lions can contact the media as well.
Can non-Lions participate in Lions Green Team projects?
Yes. Invite non-Lions of all ages to participate in Lions Green Team projects. Most likely, high profile Lions Green Team projects will attract new club members.
Contact:
DC - Tree Planation
Anup Shroff
9831439903
anup.shroff@gmail.com
HEARING PRESERVATION, AWARENESS AND ACTION
Program Summary: In 1925 Lions accepted the challenge from Helen Keller to help persons who are deaf as well as those who are blind. LCI established the formal Hearing and Speech Action and Work With the Deaf Program with the goal of improving the quality of life for people who have hearing and speech challenges. The program name has been expanded and is now known as: Hearing Preservation, Awareness and Action. The Hearing Aid Recycling Program (HARP) was implemented to aid those in need. The district hearing chairperson plays an integral role in supporting Lions club and district programs for those who have hearing and speech impairments.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I begin a service project for people who are deaf or hard of hearing?
Lions should contact local government and private agencies (including Lions hearing foundations) for the deaf or hard of hearing. This can eliminate duplication of services and identify ongoing projects that may need additional assistance.
How can I get involved in providing refurbished hearing aids for those in need?
Contact the nearest LCI Hearing Aid Recycling Program Center (HARP) to offer your assistance and get further information about collecting hearing aids and the procedures involved for providing refurbished hearing aids to those in need. LCI official HARP centers are listed on the Web site.
How can I organize a hearing screening in my community?
Obtain the required legal permit from local authorities and arrange for medical equipment and medical personnel. Government health departments, hospitals, audiologists or private physicians often agree to perform free public screenings or screenings for school children. Provide advance publicity in the community.
Important Dates:
• June 1: Helen Keller Day
• Last full week in September: Deaf Awareness Week (World Federation of the Deaf)
Contact:
DC - Hearing & Speech Action
Amal Banerjee
9830069980
LIONS RECREATION CAMPS FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS WITH
DISABILITIES AND/OR SPECIAL MEDICAL CONDITIONS
Program Summary: Throughout the world, Lions have established or sponsored various types of recreational camps serving children and adults. Lions camps offer programs for people who:
• have diabetes
• are deaf or hearing impaired
• are blind or visually impaired
• are living with other disabilities
Lions involvement at the club and district levels is important to provide continued support to each local Lions or Lions-sponsored camp. Lions activities may include: cleaning and preparing the facilities for the camping season, preparing and serving meals at campsite, providing transportation for campers, fundraising, or sponsoring a child or adult for camp.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How can I find the nearest Lions-sponsored camp?
The Health and Children's Services Department has compiled a list of Lions or Lions-sponsored camps. It can be downloaded from the LCI Web site. However, more camping locations are needed: Lions in every constitutional area are encouraged to provide news and contact information about their camps, so that they may be included on the list.
How can I find a camp for children with diabetes?
The camp list on the Web site provides the camp locations of those camps serving children who have diabetes. Lions may also explore camps listed on the Diabetes Education & Camping Association (DECA) web site www.diabetescamps.org. DECA is one of Lions Clubs International's partners.
How can I get involved with a Lions camp?
Simply call your local Lions camp or access the list posted on the Web site to obtain contact information. Inquire about the types of volunteer services that may be needed.
How can I start a Lions camp?
Contact local agencies serving children and adults with disabilities or diabetes to determine camping needs in the surrounding area. Meet with Lions district and/or multiple district leaders to propose the new camp and gauge the level of interest and support. Many Lions camps are willing to share information about the necessary procedures for camp formation. You may also contact the Diabetes Education and Camping Association (DECA) for information and courses in camp leadership and development.
How can I obtain needed supplies and equipment for a Lions camp?
• Place your inquiry on the Lion-2-Lion: Resource Assistance Database, which can be accessed from the LCI Web site.
• Apply for LCIF grant funding
Contact:
DC - Care for Physically Challenged
Vimla Poddar
9331847889
LIONS DAY WITH THE UNITED NATIONS
Program Summary: For more than 30 years, Lions have been invited to attend a unique program at a United Nations Headquarters to celebrate thelong-standing relationship between the two international organizations.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is Lions Day with the UN?
The program is open to Lions, Leos, and invited guests and includes presentations by the Secretary-General (invited), heads of UN agencies, and UN ambassadors. Highlights of the day often include a private lunch with UN ambassadors, the presentation to the winner of the Lions International Peace Poster Contest, and the presentation of Lions-UNICEF School-in-a-Box Banner Patch Awards.
Important Dates :
• Lions Day with the UN is usually held in March.
Contact:
DC – UNO Day
Shakti Nath Mondal
9831946343
snm@yahoo.co.in
LIONS ALERT PROGRAM
Program Summary: In 2006, the Lions international board approved the Lions ALERT emergency preparedness program that encourages clubs, districts, and multiple districts to develop a pro-active plan in the event of a natural, man-made, or health care emergency.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How are Lions involved in disaster relief?
Lions clubs have many opportunities to participate in disaster relief from collecting and distributing food, water, and other necessities, to assisting in long-term rebuilding efforts and participating in emergency preparedness activities. The extent of Lions involvement depends on the club's resources and opportunities to support emergency respondents on the ground.
What will a Lions club be expected to do as part of a Lions ALERT team?
First, they will meet with local emergency preparedness authorities. Then, the club will develop a Lions ALERT plan that meets their needs and the capabilities of club members.
What if there is a need for additional resources?
Lions can request and/or donate manpower and materials for any Lions humanitarian project through the online database, Lion-2-Lion: Resource Assistance Database.
Is there a possible local partner for a Lions ALERT Team?
Yes. In 2009, Lions Clubs International entered into a partnership with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). Lions clubs can contact their local chapter of the Red Cross for development of joint disaster preparedness and relief projects.
Contact:
DG
Mahendra Jain
9331825508
LION-2-LION: RESOURCE ASSISTANCE DATABASE
Program Summary:
Lions can share resources – both manpower and material – through the online portal known as the Lion-2-Lion: Resource Assistance Database.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How does the online database work?
Lions can log in to donate or request manpower and/or materials for a Lions emergency and/or non-emergency humanitarian project. Assistance can include immediate needs required after a disaster such as tents and blankets, or planned needs such as supplies or manpower for an annual medical missions trip.
Can information on the database be edited?
Yes. As needed, Lions can update their Lion-2-Lion: Resource Assistance Database Web site posting.
Can non-Lions use the database?
No. Only Lions can volunteer to provide manpower or materials for Lions humanitarian service projects.
Contact:
DG
Mahendra Jain
9331825508
LIONS SERVICES FOR CHILDREN
Program Summary: The Lions Services for Children (LSC) Program was adopted in 2003 to improve the lives of children and adolescents in adverse circumstances through health and education services, locally and internationally. After a three-year pilot phase ending June 30, 2008, the Lions Services for Children Worldwide Symposium Program was adopted as an official service program on July 1, 2008. The symposium provides Lions with a format to collaborate with concerned government agencies, health care organizations, educators and citizens to meet critical needs of underprivileged children. Lions-UNICEF School-in-a-Box program provides educational supplies to teachers in areas affected by civil unrest, earthquakes, hurricanes, and tsunamis, ensuring the continuation of children's education in the first 72 hours of an emergency.
The “Lions Children First” Program, adopted by the board in March 2009, encourages Lions to organize hands-on projects to assist children in need such as implementing food or clothing drives, providing health screenings and immunizations, collecting books and toys or mentoring at-risk youth.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I begin a club service project for local children in need?
Lions clubs are encouraged to review the Lions Children First Information Kit (KITCFEN) obtained through the Health and Children's Services Department. It contains essential information to help a club organize a Lions Children First project. The club can then form the appropriate committee of active club members and set goals for project development. Children's hearing, vision and dental screenings are excellent projects for Lions clubs and districts, too. Clubs are encouraged to involve Leos in their service activities for children.
What types of projects could serve the needs of children and adolescents living in adverse circumstances?
Food, shelter or clothing; immunizations; vision, hearing, dental screenings; assistance in coping with illness or disabilities; literacy programs; drug and alcohol abuse education; provision of safe drinking water; recreational and social programs; vocational programs; upgrade schools or children's centers; or Lions missions to underserved areas.
How can I hold a district or multiple district children's symposium?
The district or multiple district should submit to Lions Clubs International Headquarters a completed and signed children's symposium application available for downloading on the Web site (LSC-9) as soon as possible. Four Two symposiums in each constitutional area will be selected to receive up to US$2,000 expense assistance, each fiscal year. Applications are first-come, first-served, and a response will be issued within 30 days after receipt of the application. Further information is available in the symposium “Rules of Audit” form (LSC-18), also on the Web site. The district and multiple district Lions Services for Children chairpersons can help to organize and promote a children's symposium.
How can I find out more about children's symposiums that have been held in my Constitutional area?
Contact the Health and Children's Services Department to get in touch with Lions who have organized successful symposiums in collaboration with other organizations, health care agencies or educators to address issues involving health and educational needs.
Important Dates:
• July 1 – March 1: Symposium applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis
• October 9: World Sight Day (second Thursday in October)
• December-January: “Relieve the Hunger” LCI global service action campaign
• June 30: Symposium expense claim and final report form due for consideration of LCI reimbursement
• United Nations: Universal Children's Day – check Web site for individual country dates.
Contact:
DC - Children Welfare
Shree Gopal Gupta
9831186317
LIONS YOUNG LEADERS IN SERVICE AWARDS PROGRAM
Program Summary:
The Lions Young Leaders in Service Awards recognize young people (suggested ages 12-18) for their community service within a 12-month period.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How does the program work?
Lions clubs invite local schools, Leo clubs and other youth groups to participate. A Lion coordinates with school personnel, Leo advisors and adult youth group leaders who certify young people's service and submit award forms to the Lions club. The Lions club requests the award from Lions Clubs International, and a congratulatory letter from the International President, along with a certificate, are sent for each recipient.
How many hours are required for awards?
50 hours of service = Silver Seal Award
100 hours of service = Gold Seal Award
What are the benefits of the awards program?
Youth will experience the rewards of community service and receive recognition. The community will improve through young people's service. The Lions club will build community partnerships, encourage young people to serve their communities and recognize them for their efforts.
Contact:
GLT Chairman
Gopi Dhuwalia
9331054634
dhuwaliagopi@gmail.com
LIONS CLUBS INTERNATIONAL EYE GLASS RECYCLING
PROGRAM
Program Summary: The Lions Clubs International Eyeglass Recycling Program became an official program in 1994, although Lions have been involved in eyeglass recycling for more than 80 years. Today, there are 17 official Lions Eyeglasses Recycling Centers (LERCs) throughout the world. Board Policy provides baseline operating standards for LERCs to maintain even operating standards and to ensure distribution of a consistent product. Eyeglasses supplied to Lions or other humanitarian groups are dispensed free of charge at the mission sites. Lions districts and multiple districts, singly or jointly, may sponsor LERCs. The council chairperson of the multiple district in which the LERC is located is strongly encouraged to visit the center at least once during his/her term.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I begin an eyeglass collection campaign in my community?
Contact Health and Children's Services Department to order a “Lions Recycle For Sight” Information Kit (KIT-RFS) for a nominal cost of US$5.00. It contains all necessary information and sample promotional materials for organizing a successful club or district eyeglass recycling campaign. Additional resources, such as LCI collection boxes and box decals, are also available. Form a club committee to maintain collection sites throughout your community and publicize the drop-off locations in your local newspaper, the LCI Web site and your club or district Web site.
How can clubs increase their eyeglass collections?
Clubs can contact local organizations, schools or businesses to sponsor an eyeglass collection drive. The “Recycle For Sight” brochure, poster and press release can help to publicize the event. Lions can sponsor eyeglass collection contests between local clubs in the district, or within local schools, to encourage community involvement, too. Clubs may post their collection locations on the Lions Clubs International Web site.
Where can Lions clubs or districts send their recycled eyeglasses?
Clubs are encouraged to send their eyeglasses to the nearest LERC (locations listed on Web site). Contact the LERC directly to verify shipping guidelines and the types of glasses accepted. The LERC will then sort, process and prepare the glasses for inventory for future optical missions.
How can I obtain eyeglasses for a Lions optical mission?
Request a supply of glasses from the nearest LERC or another LERC (contact information on LCI Web site) to help meet the needs of your mission. Eyeglasses shall be distributed in strict accordance with local or national health regulations of the country hosting the optical mission.
Important Dates:
• June 30: LERC annual report of compliance due
• July 30: LERC annual report of expenses (for previous fiscal year ending June 30) due
• September 15: LERC current report of board of directors and by-laws due.
• Quarterly reports from LERCs to be submitted to Health & Children's Services: October 10, January 10, April 10 and July 10
• Lions World Sight Day: (second Thursday in October)
• International White Cane Safety Day: October 15
• Lions Recycle For Sight Month: May
Contact:
DC - Sight First
I K Mall
9831151011
shreehrt@vsnl.com
LIONS CLUBS INTERNATIONAL EYE BANK PROGRAM
Program Summary: The Lions Clubs International Eye Bank Program was adopted as an official program in 1984, although Lions have been providing support for eye banks for nearly 65 years. Today, there are more than 60 official Lions Eye Banks throughout the world. Lions Clubs International observes Lions Eye Bank Week every year during the first week in December. The district and multiple district sight chairpersons hold key positions in promoting and supporting Lions eye banking so that quality eye tissue for corneal transplants, research and other medical purposes may be provided. Lions eye banks are sponsored by clubs, districts and/or multiple districts.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What does an eye bank do?
An eye bank recovers, evaluates and distributes human eye tissue for sight restoration, research and education.
How can I find the nearest Lions Eye Bank?
A list of the official eye banks can be found on the LCI Web site and downloaded.
What can a club do to support the local Lions Eye Bank?
The club can begin by contacting the eye bank to inquire what types of volunteer services may be needed, such as volunteering in the eye bank, providing financial assistance and support, sponsoring a fundraiser, or hosting an open house.
How else can Lions help?
A club or district can conduct a public education campaign by organizing a donor awareness event, such as Lions Eye Bank Week or inviting a Lions eye bank representative to speak about the eye bank. Lions may choose to provide financial assistance to corneal transplant patients in need. Lions are also encouraged to become cornea donors.
How can Lions establish a new eye bank?
Clubs, districts and/or multiple districts can sponsor a new eye bank in accordance with LCI Board Policy. Each eye bank establishes a working relationship with an appropriate medical facility for guidance and medical standards. More than half of the official Lions Eye Banks are willing to serve as mentors, if a request is made.
Important Dates:
• September 15: Lions Eye Bank report due to Health and Children's Services Department for previous fiscal year ended June 30.
• 2 nd Thursday in October: Lions World Sight Day
• First Week in December: Lions Eye Bank Week
• March: Lions Eye Donor Awareness Month
Contact:
DC - Sight First
I K Mall
9831151011
shreehrt@vsnl.com |
