SOUTHWICK – The Southwick Lions Club celebrated its 65th anniversary Saturday night, marking the occasion with proclamations from the town and state.
Lion Ken Larkin joined the club 22 years ago after retiring from the fire department. He said he was drawn to the Lion commitment to service.
When asked what keeps him coming back, Larkin said simply “we serve.”
“It’s all about helping people,” Larkin said.
The Lions Club is known for its commitment to helping the visually impaired but Larkin said they also assist with hearing needs and diabetes awareness.
“The Lions are the only international organization that donates 100 percent of funds raised without any going to administration,” said Larkin. “And, It’s a lot of fun.”
The Southwick Lions Club hosts a pancake breakfast and collects cans and bottle to recycle.
“We’ve made $2 million with cans and bottles in almost 10 years,” Larkin said. “All of that goes to Mass Eye Research or a project of International.”
The International Lions Club has supported relief efforts for areas hit by hurricanes and other devastating weather events.
Larkin said another project, Sight First, helped the plight of river blindness in Africa, sending representatives to teach people about sanitation.
The Lions Club was founded in the early 1900s by Melvin Jones as a men-only business club. It wasn’t until the 1980s that women were allowed in the Lions Club.
“Our club has had five women presidents, including the current president Justine Wietek,” said Larkin.
One of the Lion’s female members, Pamela Krynicki, was honored during the celebration Saturday at Tucker’s Restaurant with the Melvin Jones Award. Larkin said Krynicki exemplifies the Lions’ philosophy.
“It’s our highest award,” he said, “and she is a hard worker. When she joined she stepped right in.”
Krynicki participates in the club’s students exchange program, works with Boy Scouts and other youth, and is a “good member,” said Larkin.
For more information, visit southwickma.lionwap.org.
