At the Waltham Lions Club, small acts of service make a big difference

To the Editor:

Several years ago, I joined the Waltham Lions Club because I wanted to give back to the community that has given so much to me. What I found was much more than a volunteer organization—I found a group of dedicated people who genuinely care about making a difference in the lives of others.

Today, the Waltham Lions Club continues a tradition of service that started in 1939. Through our “Hope for the Blind” initiatives (named for the late Bob Hope, who was a Waltham Lions benefactor), we help individuals with vision loss maintain their dignity, independence and quality of life. We award over $10,000 annually in scholarships to WHS graduates. Waltham Lions directly support the Salvation Army, Waltham Education and Beyond Foundation, Waltham Veterans, Waltham Badass Warriors, Council on Aging, Waltham Boys and Girls Club, Waltham YMCA, Meals on Wheels, Waltham Rotary Club, Opportunities for Inclusion and the Community Day Center. Just to name a few.

You may have seen us at Waltham community events, volunteering at fundraisers, assisting local families in need, or working alongside other organizations to improve the quality of life in Waltham.

One of the most rewarding aspects of being a member is seeing firsthand how even small acts of service can have a lasting impact. We don’t just write checks, we work. Whether it’s helping a student afford college, providing access to eyeglasses, or supporting a family facing hardship, our efforts make a real difference.

As with many volunteer organizations, we are always recruiting new members. You don’t need any special experience, you don’t have to be from Waltham, or even live in Waltham. You only need a desire to help others and a willingness to volunteer your time. Our members include business owners, professionals, tradespeople, executives, retirees, realtors, bankers, public servants, and people from all walks of life.

Waltham is a city with a strong tradition of community involvement. If you have been looking for a way to make a meaningful impact, meet new people, socialize and help improve the lives of others, I invite you to consider joining the Waltham Lions Club. Please see www.walthamlions.org or www.facebook.com/walthamlionsclub for information.

Service is more than what we do—it is who we are. We would love for you to be a part of it. Go Hawks!

Sincerely,
Bill Hanley
President, Waltham Lions Club