You have been referred to us as a community leader who is concerned with the well being of our fellow citizens.  We wish to extend a cordial invitation to you to attend a special membership meeting of the La Crosse Lions Club on Wednesday, April 9, at Doc Powell’s in downtown La Crosse.  The meeting will begin with social time at 6:30 p.m. and will include dinner (seating at 7:00), a special program by Coulee Cap, and information on the La Crosse Lions Club and our activities.  

      The La Crosse Lions Club was formed eighty years ago and has been active in serving the needs of the community.  Our special mission comes from a challenge by Helen Keller to be “Knights of the Blind”.  In support of this mission we operate the local Eyebank, purchase eyeglasses and hearing aids for needy children and adults, collect used eyeglasses and hearing aids, and support other services for the visually and hearing impaired.  

      The Lions Club has been known as Friends of the Myrick Park Zoo.  We purchased the fencing for the zoo, bought the animal feeders, built many of the cages and exhibits, and purchased several of the animals.  We support many community agencies such as Chileda, Family and Children’s Center, Salvation Army, Children’s Museum, Hixon Forrest, and many more. 

      The Lions have many programs for youth including the International Youth Exchange, Lions Quest Drug Awareness Program, a Peace Poster Contest, and a Youth Service Award. 

      We are most proud of our support of two camps for handicapped individuals, our own Wisconsin Lions Camp in Rosholt, Wisconsin, and Camp Winnebago in Caledonia, Minnesota.  Each year many individuals from the La Crosse area attend these summer camps to enjoy fellowship, build self-confidence and participate in recreational activities. 

      We hope you will make plans to attend our meeting on April 9.  Please RSVP your attendance to the Lions at P. O. Box 1531.  Or, one of our members will be calling you to see if you can attend or to answer any questions you may have.   Please bring along a guest.  Once you get to meet the Lions and learn about the many services we provide, we’re hoping you will consider becoming a member.  

 Thanks.