Lions Clubs of Multiple District 36, Oregon and Northern California

We Serve

Eugene, OR USA

541-484-0452

Lions of Oregon & Northern California are a part of an international network of 1.4 million men and women in 200 countries and geographic areas who work together to answer the needs that challenge communities around the world. Lions are best known for working to end preventable blindness, the giving of eyeglasses and hearing aids for the needy and local service projects.

 

Mission Statement of Lions Clubs International:

 

"To create and foster a spirit of understanding among all people for humanitarian needs by providing voluntary services through community involvement and international cooperation."

 

Spring Break: An Opportunity For Service

March 05, 2025  /  Jennifer Brewster

It’s March, and while Spring break is a time of excitement for kids, many parents have to balance keeping their children engaged, work, and daily responsibilities. Our Lions Clubs, with our strong community presence and dedication to service, can step in to provide meaningful and enjoyable activities for local youth—offering both entertainment for children and respite for parents and grandparents.

Some suggestions, without breaking the bank:

Outdoor Adventures

Lions Clubs can take advantage of local parks, trails, and community spaces to host outdoor activities that keep kids active and engaged. Consider organizing:

  • Nature hikes and scavenger hunts to encourage exploration.

  • Outdoor sports days featuring soccer, kickball, or relay races.

  • Hosting a “tool” workshop to teach kids life skills

  • Fishing or gardening workshops to teach hands-on skills and environmental stewardship.

Creative and Educational Fun

Providing a space for kids to learn and express themselves can make their break both enjoyable and productive. Some ideas include:

  • Art and craft sessions where kids can paint, draw, or make DIY projects.

  • STEM activity days featuring simple science experiments or robotics fun (invite your local teachers to help!).

  • Storytime or literacy events at local libraries, perhaps in partnership with local authors or educators.

Community Service Projects for Kids

Teaching kids the value of giving back can be both fun and impactful. Lions Clubs can involve youth in:

  • Mini service projects, such as assembling care packages for food banks.

  • Neighborhood clean-up events to instill pride in their community.

  • Intergenerational visits to senior centers, where kids can play games or read to residents.

By hosting fun & affordable events, Lions Clubs can support working parents while creating safe and enriching experiences for children. These initiatives not only strengthen the bond between the club and the community but also inspire young people to engage in service and leadership. Kids who participate in Lions-led activities may one day become members themselves.

When Lions Clubs host family-friendly spring break events, they create a positive and memorable presence in the community. Parents who may not be familiar with the Lions' mission will see firsthand how the club makes a difference. This exposure can spark interest in joining or supporting the club in the future.

Spring break activities provide a win-win for Lions Clubs—serving the community while also strengthening their membership base. By increasing visibility, engaging families, and showcasing the fun and impact of service, these initiatives create valuable connections that can lead to long-term growth. The more people see Lions making a difference, the more they will want to be part of the mission.

“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?”
— Helen Keller's Speech at 1925 International Convention Cedar Point, Ohio, USA June 30, 1925