The Akaka Falls Lions Club was chartered on July 1, 1963 by the International Association of Lions Clubs. The Charter was presented by then District Governor of District 50, Kenneth K. Yamamoto, to Akaka’s Charter President Myron Isherwood Jr. Several hundred Lions and guests attended the impressive Charter installation on September 7, 1963.
The 20 charter members represented a cross section of community-minded businessmen, sugar plantation personnel, educators and transferred and reinstated Lions. The Crescent City Lions Club served as Akaka Fall’s sponsoring, or “mother” club. In the earlier years, the club serviced an area along the Hilo-Hamakua coast from Ookala to Pepeekeo and derived its name from the world-famous Akaka Falls. The Akaka Falls Lions Club is renowned for many things including its numerous service projects that benefit the communities in its service area, and for hosting events filled with fun, fellowship and featuring unique, homemade, ethnic foods. The club is also recognized for its consistently high attendance at monthly membership meetings.
The Akaka Falls Lions Club, like many organizations, has adjusted to the changing times. As the sugar industry struggled, many members left the club. The late Lion George Walker, then Principal of Laupahoehoe High and Elementary School, recruited more educators and businessmen. As a result of these newly recruited members, there were more club activities, fellowship events and projects for the communities, zone, region and District 50.
Shortly after the closing of the plantations, the club suffered a second major decline in membership and dropped to only 12 members. Although it was difficult to fill the slate of officers, the club and membership persevered and continued to service the community. The club’s annual charter installations and zone funfests were still well attended by zone and region Lions and guests, who enjoyed our wide range of food and fellowship. A few members recruited other key individuals, which helped in the revival of the club. Today, the club typically has about 40 - 45 members and most of them are very active members.
Club activities were also influenced by the changing times and demographics. Club projects during the formative years included house to house broom sales; co-sponsored Hilo Coast Little League sports events with the Crescent City Lions club; Salvation Army bell ringing, and park and school beautification projects.
Current service activities include helping the Hawaii Food Bank, Akaka Falls Highway clean up, Lei making for new citizens, eye glass recycling, event assistance, and various projects at the Panaewa Zoo and Children’s Justice Center. Go to the club projects page of the website to see a complete list of projects.
The club does two major fundraisers each year. The first is a Fun Fest held for fellow Lions throughout the region as well as the general public. It is a fun way to raise funds for the club. The second is the Wine Tasting event typically held at the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel. This elegant event is the largest fundraiser for the club.
The club began sponsoring the Hilo School Leo Club in the 2025-26 year and is proud of its association with the club.
Akaka Falls Lions falls under the Hawaii Lions District 50, Zone 7. The Akaka Falls Lions Club is proud to have loyal and enthusiastic members serve District 50 in a variety of roles. The club also participates in many zone projects such as the Hilo Christmas Parade, Hilo Lights in the Park, Hearing Screenings, and the Legacy Project which helps to beautify Lili’uokalinIgardens. The club has 2 past District Governors that are still active in the club. Many club members attend the district convention each year.
