The Creston Lions are marking a significant milestone this September - 85 years in service.
Established in 1939, the local organization has been a cornerstone of community support, through various charitable initiatives and events.
To commemorate the anniversary, the Lions are hosting a special celebration on Sept. 21 at Centennial Park. The festivities will run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., with free hot dogs and drinks, as well as a scavenger hunt, crafts, and games hosted by the Town of Creston and Creston Valley Youth Network. To further celebrate history in the making, the Lions have sponsored free admission at the Creston Museum from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Stop by to see a commemorative display of Lions Club memorabilia.
According to Lions Club International, the club was founded in 1917 by Chicago business leader, Melvin Jones.
“He wondered what would happen if people put their talents to work improving their communities. As a result of his inspiration, 1.4 million men and women today are members of the world’s largest service club association,” states the website.
The Lions are dedicated to making their community a better place by helping those in need, under the motto, "We serve."
In the Creston Valley, the Lions are also known for their involvement in local events such as the Blossom Festival, which they originally organized in 1942 as a fundraiser and morale booster for the Second World War effort. To this day, the club still contributes by serving the traditional pancake breakfast.
In 1925, Helen Keller attended the Lions Clubs International Convention and challenged the group to become "knights of the blind in the crusade against darkness." The Creston Lions have upheld their commitment to this cause through the Eyglass Recycling Program since the 1960s.
Over 70,000 pairs of prescription eyeglasses, reading glasses, and sunglasses have been donated by residents of Creston. For many years, Lion Maury Murphy diligently carried out the task of collecting, sorting, and shipping the glasses.
“Every few weeks, we're shipping a few 100 to Calgary, where there's a whole bunch of Lions in a little tiny warehouse, and they take everything right from the coating off the lenses, the screws, the plastic - everything. If it doesn't get recycled, it gets reused in one way or the other,” said member Nadine Campsall.
To raise funds, the Lions operate a mobile food service, most recently seen at Shovelfest, and a returnables program, which collects bottles and cans from bins placed at the Creston Landfill, West Creston Hall, and the Helen Street Depot. This initiative has been so successful that it requires daily checks to manage the high volume of donations. Funds raised in Creston, stay in Creston.
In addition to fundraising activities, the Lions Club has recently partnered with the Creston Food Bank and Community Garden to support families in need. This year, they've sponsored garden plots for families to grow their own food, providing both nourishment and valuable skills.
Despite these achievements, the Lions are facing challenges. The club is actively seeking new members to sustain their activities in the years to come. Most of the current members are seniors in retirement, who dedicate their time to volunteering and fundraising.
“Our members are mostly seniors because they're the ones that have time,” said Campsall. “They’re a good bunch of people. We have fun. Seniors, no matter how old, are ready to jump in and help do the work so the younger people can take advantage of the services that we donate to and provide.”
Potential members can learn more about joining by attending a club meeting, held every second Thursday, twice monthly at the Masonic Hall at 6 p.m. The annual membership fee is $85.
“It's a good way to get to know your community,” said Campsall. “Everyone should be doing something to give back.”
For those interested in learning more or getting involved, check out the Creston BC Canada Lions Club Facebook page or email crestonbclionsclub@gmail.com.
