Lions Club to Host Better Vision Luncheon in September

The Orange Blossom Gardens (OBG) Lions Club is excited to invite the public to a special event, “In Focus: A Luncheon Supporting Better Vision,” on September 11, 2024, at the American Legion Post 347 in Lady Lake. Doors will open at 10:45 AM, with lunch served at 11:00 AM, followed by presentations starting at 11:30 AM.

Barbara Crewell, President of the OBG Lions, expressed her enthusiasm for the luncheon, stating, “We are thrilled to host ‘In Focus: A Luncheon Supporting Better Vision.’ This event brings our community together with local resources and highlights our commitment to supporting vision services. We are honored to present our pledge of $30,000 to Beauty of Sight at the luncheon, helping them continue their invaluable work restoring vision and providing critical support to those in need.”

Heather Vass, Service Chair of the OBG Lions, emphasized the importance of the Lions’ mission, noting, “Serving our community is at the heart of what we do. Vision is a core pillar of the Lions’ global initiatives, and through events like this luncheon, we can make a real difference in people’s lives. I encourage everyone to think of the many different ways to provide service to the community. From food drives to volunteer hours, there are countless ways to help others. Consider becoming an organ donor, as donating corneas can give the gift of sight to another individual. Together, we can work towards a world where everyone has access to the vision care they need.”

Luncheon attendees will have the opportunity to meet with local and regional vision-related service providers, gaining valuable insights into the resources and support available in our area. The luncheon will feature presentations from:

• Bob Armstrong, District Governor of the Lions Club
• Barbara Crewell, President of OBG Lions
• Heather Vass, Service Chair of OBG Lions
• Robert Vass, Marketing Chair of OBG Lions
• Cheryl Lawko from Beauty of Sight, formerly known as the Florida Lions Eye Bank, will be the keynote speaker.

Since 1962, Beauty of Sight has been a pioneer in restoring vision through corneal transplants, research, and community outreach. Their efforts have transformed the lives of tens of thousands of individuals through sight-saving procedures and innovative research.

Tickets are $10 per person and include lunch, provided by the American Legion Post 347. The meal will feature a variety of sandwiches, a vegetarian option, potato salad, pasta salad, coffee/tea or water, and dessert offerings.

To reserve your spot, visit www.obglions.com and complete your registration and payment. Please ensure your reservation is made by September 1, 2024, to secure your spot.

All proceeds from this event will support the $100 for 100 campaign which involves raising $100 for each of the 108 active OBG Lions members in honor of the 100th anniversary of Helen Keller’s challenge to the Lions to be “Knights of the Blind.” With a goal of just over $10,000, the campaign has already raised $2,600 since its launch on July 1. All funds will be dedicated to vision services and programs.