The Natchitoches Lions Club has kicked off the new Lions year with energy, enthusiasm, and a continued commitment to serving the community.
The new year officially began with the installation of the club’s incoming president, Michael Giannone, by Immediate Past President Nicole Woods. During the ceremony, Woods reflected on another successful year of service while encouraging members to continue building on the club’s long tradition of making a difference throughout Natchitoches Parish.
Service opportunities followed immediately as club members traveled to the Louisiana Lions Camp for the annual Natchitoches Night Meat Pie Feast, one of the camp’s favorite traditions.
The club also celebrated a special milestone this summer. For the first time, the Natchitoches Lions Club awarded two camp counselor scholarships to recognize outstanding service at Louisiana Lions Camp. Scholarship recipients Madison Guy and McKenzie Guy, both students at Northwestern State University, spent their summer serving as camp counselors and making a lasting impact on campers from across Louisiana. Natchitoches Lions Nicole Woods and Michele Waskom returned to camp for the final night of the summer session, where they had the opportunity to congratulate the scholarship recipients and celebrate another successful camping season alongside campers and staff.
Another ongoing service project this summer has been the club’s partnership with the Natchitoches Parish Library during its Sprouts program. Each Friday, Natchitoches Lions Club members prepared and served lunch to children and families participating in the program, helping ensure young attendees enjoyed a nutritious meal while taking part in educational activities. The weekly project reflects the club’s commitment to supporting local youth and strengthening community partnerships through hands-on service.
Continuing their focus on vision and community service, Natchitoches Lions participated in the Natchitoches Parish School Board Back-to-School Expo, where members completed dozens of on-site vision screenings for young students. Early vision screenings are one of Lions Clubs International’s signature service projects and help identify children who may need additional eye care before the school year begins.
The club is now preparing for its next major event—the Inaugural Roaring Lions Golf Classic on Saturday, August 29. The two-man scramble fundraiser will benefit Louisiana Lions Camp, children’s vision screening initiatives and numerous other local service projects supported by the Natchitoches Lions Club.
Community members interested in making a difference are invited to become part of the club’s newest year of service. The next meeting will be held Monday, August 3, at 12:00 p.m. in the Listach Room at Natchitoches Regional Medical Center. Anyone interested in learning more about membership is encouraged to attend.
To stay up to date on upcoming projects, fundraisers and service opportunities, follow the Natchitoches Lions Club on Facebook or contact any club member for additional information.
Together, the Natchitoches Lions Club looks forward to another year of strengthening the community through service, fellowship, and a shared commitment to helping others.
