Championing Vision: Lions Clubs International’s Mission

Introduction
Lions Clubs International, with the support of the Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF), is dedicated to combating vision impairment and blindness. Since Helen Keller’s challenge in 1925, Lions have continuously served the visually impaired, striving to prevent avoidable blindness and improve the quality of life for those affected.

Global Vision Crisis

• Vision Statistics: 253 million people suffer from blindness or moderate to severe distance vision impairment (MSVI). Additionally, 1.1 billion people have near-vision impairment due to lack of glasses.
• Avoidable Blindness: Over 75% of blindness and MSVI cases are preventable.
• Disproportionate Impact: 89% of visually impaired individuals live in developing countries.

Strategic Objectives
Lions Clubs International aims to prevent avoidable blindness and enhance the quality of life for those who are blind or visually impaired. This is achieved through various initiatives, including vision screenings, educational programs, and the provision of eye care services.

Key Initiatives and Programs

1. SightFirst: A program supporting the development of comprehensive eye care systems to combat major causes of blindness.
2. Lions KidSight: Vision screening for children to detect and address vision problems early.
3. Eyeglass Recycling: Collecting and recycling eyeglasses to provide to those in need.

LCIF Vision Grants
LCIF provides grants to support large-scale eye care projects, including:

• SightFirst Grants: Funding comprehensive eye care systems.
• Eyeglass Recycling Center Grants: Supporting the operation of recycling centers.
• Vision Screening Grants: Enabling community-based vision screening programs.

Community Involvement and Success Stories
Lions Clubs have made a significant impact through vision-related projects. For example, the establishment of eye clinics and vision screening programs in underserved communities has helped prevent blindness and improve sight for millions of people worldwide.

Challenges and the Path Forward
Despite the progress, challenges such as access to eye care services and affordability of treatments remain. Lions Clubs International continues to address these issues through sustained efforts, partnerships, and innovative solutions.

How You Can Help
Support Lions Clubs International’s vision initiatives by donating to LCIF, participating in local Lions Club activities, and raising awareness about vision health. Your contributions can help prevent blindness and improve the quality of life for those with vision impairment.

Conclusion
Lions Clubs International, with support from LCIF, is making a substantial impact on global vision health. Through strategic initiatives, grants, and community engagement, they are committed to preventing avoidable blindness and enhancing the quality of life for the visually impaired.

For more details, visit Lions Clubs Vision.