Since 1917, Lions have served the world's population through hard work and commitment to make a difference in the lives of people everywhere. In June, 1925, Helen Keller challenged all Lions to be "Knights of the Blind." Since then, our primary mission has been to support sight related programs, help those with vision problems and work to prevent sight diseases. We have also support hearing related programs and help those with hearing problems. The mission statement of Lions Clubs International is: "To create and foster a spirit of understanding among all peoples for humanitarian needs by providing voluntary services through community involvement and international cooperation." With over 1.35 million members serving in over 196 countries and areas, Lions Clubs International is the world's largest service club organization. Lions are recognized worldwide for their service to the blind and visually impaired, the deaf and hearing impaired, and a dedication to serving young people. The Van Buren Lions Club was chartered on August 17, 1922 with the help of the Fort Smith Lions Club. Since then, the Van Buren Lions Club has been a community asset and a source of humanitarian services. We support these local, regional, state and international programs:
* Local Eye Examination Program
* Arkansas Eye Bank and Laboratory
* Lions World Services for the Blind
* Mid-South Sight and Hearing Service
* Leader Dogs for the Blind
* Lions Clubs International Foundation
* Diabetes Education and Prevention
* Sight First
* Lions of Arkansas Foundation
The community service and humanitarian projects performed by the Van Buren Lions Clubs since its inception are numerous and significant. Click here for a list of community service that continues to grow. The Community of Van Buren:
Van Buren, a community of about 20,000 souls, is located on Interstate 40 in the Northwest part of Arkansas on the Arkansas River right across from Fort Smith and just a few miles East of the Oklahoma state line.
