A message from LCIF Chancellor, Bob Corlew

Dear Lions,

Ever since Helen Keller challenged Lions to become “knights of the blind in the crusade against darkness,” Lions have done just that. Lions have dedicated much of their work to restoring vision and fighting preventable blindness alongside Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) and its partners. In recognition of October’s World Sight Day, let’s celebrate the vision-saving accomplishments of Lions and LCIF working together. Since the founding of SightFirst, LCIF has awarded 1,287 SightFirst grants totaling US$342.6 million. SightFirst initiatives take place in more than 100 countries across the globe. SightFirst’s work led to the elimination of river blindness in Guatemala, it restored sight to more than 7 million people with cataracts, and prevented serious vision loss for more than 30 million people. In addition to the outstanding work SightFirst is achieving, LCIF has many partnerships that are succeeding in saving sight for people of all ages, including Sight for Kids, a partnership with Johnson & Johnson Vision Care; Opening Eyes, a partnership with Special Olympics International; and the Project for the Elimination of Childhood Blindness, a partnership with the World Health Organization.

Lions, as you plan your clubs’ service projects and think of ways LCIF could boost your impact, keep in mind our battle against preventable blindness. With estimates showing that 80% of blindness or visual impairment can be prevented, remember that while we have accomplished great things, there is still much work to be done. I know you will join me in continuing the “crusade against darkness.”

Sincerely,

Chancellor Bob Corlew
Chairman, Lions Clubs International Foundation