Club Overview
Officially chartered on October 11, 1921, just three years after Lionism came into existence, the Faribault Lions Club has been and continues as a pride full of men and (since 1988) women who enjoy roaring and singing together as well as serving together and with their fellow Lions worldwide. In these 85 years, the Club has always had a nucleus of vibrant leaders spearheading its fundraising, service, and participation in district and international Lions events.
In keeping with the Lions International motto, "We Serve," Faribault Lions contributed both monetarily and in volunteer hours to projects in the Faribault area and Lion-sponsored district and international programs. They raised money through annual Superbowl Pancake Breakfast, annual Flight for Sight Golf Tourney, White Cane Drive,and mint sales. They helped to fight blindness and assist the visually handicapped in a special way by contributing toward needs at the Minnesota State Academy for the Blind in Faribault not covered by the state of Minnesota, including an annual Plugger's Award, Goal Ball Tournaments, Braille magazine subscriptions, Braille computer, special trips, and the purchase of playground equipment. They established and manage the Large Print Books Libary Fund at the MN Talking Book Library with financial help from 5M's Minnesota clubs. Past project with an LCIF grant, a self-help apartment called THE LIONS DEN where graduating students learn independent living. They provide eyeglasses for Faribault-area students whose families cannot afford to do so, and they collect used eyeglasses (and hearing aids) to send to clinics in Central and South America.
Faribault Lions sponsored a premiere of the movie, Grumpy Old Men,partly filmed in Faribault, at a local theater to raise money for LCIF's SIGHT FIRST campaign. They give generous support regularly to international, 5M and 5M-2 Lions programs such as the Eye Bank, Children's Eye Clinic, Hearing Foundation, Diabetes Fund, LCIF, Leader and Hearing Dog projects, plus a recent commitment to the MAC program.
Through all of its 90 years, officers and members participated at all levels of Lionism. The Club has had representation at many international conventions, including those in Australia and Asia, Faribaultians have served as district governor and zone and region chairs, and in other capacities for district and multiple. In 2008 the Faribault Lions supported the canadicy of a member of International Director who was was elected in Bangkok, Thailand in June.
In 2011, Faribault Lions meet twice a month. The 2nd Monday at noon and the 5th Monday at 6:30 pm. These meetings include speakers from Lionism and the local community. Guests join club members for regular meetings, summer picnics and special occasions. Faribault Lions continue to follow the lead given by its longtime live members in carrying out their pledge to serve in our local, state, and world community
Faribault Lions members are proud to display the
Lion's Motto: WE SERVE.
Club History provided by Lion Dot Steimann
