The West Suburban Philanthropic Network has named the Naperville Noon Lions Club and Foundation to receive its 2017 philanthropy award in the Service Club category.
This award is presented to an organization that has demonstrated a commitment to the western suburbs through financial support, leadership and volunteerism. Donka, Inc., nominated the Lions for their unwavering commitment to Donka’s assistive technology computer training program, designed for individuals with visual and physical disabilities.
In the last two years alone, the Naperville Lions have helped Donka raise more than $40,000 and have supported their programs since 1994.
Previous winners were the Kane County Farm Bureau in 2014, The Naperville Exchange Club in 2015 and the Hinsdale Junior Woman’s Club in 2016.
“We are honored to accept this award,” said Lions Club President, Steve Hertzberg.
In addition to Donka, Inc., the Naperville Noon Lions supports many other worthwhile causes.
Since the Club was organized in 1948, Naperville Lions have supported the community by providing millions of dollars to local organizations that provide much-needed services for individuals who cannot afford those types of services, Hertzberg added.
Last year alone, its Foundation raised more than $240,000 from four fundraising events. Funds were used to support the Club’s mission of providing eye examinations, eye glasses and hearing examinations to over 340 children and adults in the Naperville area. In addition, the Lions supported other initiatives in research and education of the blind and low vision individuals along with supporting many Naperville social service agencies.
Bob Hull, the club’s publicity chairman, noted the Naperville Noon Lions Club is part of the rich history of Lions Clubs International, which began as a dream of Chicago businessman Melvin Jones in 1917. Jones believed that local business clubs should expand their horizons from purely professional concerns to the betterment of their communities and the world at large.
The Lions will be recognized at the 15th annual philanthropic awards luncheon on May 23, 2017, at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Naperville.
For more information about the Naperville Noon Lions Club and how to become a member, call (630) 364-3922 or visit www.napervillenoonlions.org.
