In 1996, three Carolina Lakes residents (Dick Rudin, John Hovind, and Doug Kuhna) who were members of the Sanford Lions Club decided to start the Western Harnett Lions Club with Dick Rudin as President. These charter members wanted to do community projects and help the needy of Western Harnett County. Past Presidents of the Western Harnett Lions Club include: Dick Rudin, Christine Drey, Doug Kuhna, Vince Schimmoller, Bob Marsh, Mike O’Meara, Dan Boudreau and Larry Wojcik. The club first met at the Benhaven Elementary School, then moved to Peggy’s Seafood Restaurant, the Trading Post, Rosie’s Restaurant, and most recently the Carolina Lakes Clubhouse. Charter members of the Club who are still members include:  Carl Casciere, Jean Hovind, Laura Rudin, Audrey Berriman, Dan Boudreau, John Elskamp, and Steve McNeil. As of 1 July, 2010, there are 57 active members.

 

The club’s primary focus is assisting visually and hearing impaired people. While we direct most of our funds to folks living in Western Harnett County, we also provide assistance to needy people statewide and around the world through the Lions Club state and international organizations.

 

A. FUND RAISING  (To fund our work)

·         Annual Golf Tournament

·         Mother’s Day Breakfast

·         Annual Spaghetti Dinner

·         Holiday Dinner Dance

·         Barbeque at Marina

·         50/50 Raffle at meetings

 

B. COMMUNITY SUPPORT  (Helping others)

·         Host annual Vision Van free eye screenings

·         Support Camp Waccamaw Boys & Girls Home

·         Pick-up of litter along Buffalo Lakes Road

·         Collect glasses, hearing aids and printer cartridges

·         Support Camp Dogwood by sorting glasses and helping with maintenance

·         Provide limited maintenance help for elderly and families of deployed military

·         Promote businesses in Western Harnett County.

·         Support 4^th of July Activities

·         Sponsor the Lake’s Leo Club

·         Support Spout Springs Fire Department with donations and an annual Appreciation Dinner

·         Serve meals for the local Bread Basket

·         Assist the Buddy Back Pack Program

 

C. EDUCATION (Promote increased knowledge)

·         Award college scholarships to high school seniors

·         Lions Club training events for members

·         Fund educational programs for local children

 

D. CLUB FELLOWSHIP ACTIVITIES  (Have fun and strengthen bonds
                                                            between members)

·         Social time and meal as part of each meeting

·         Night out at an entertainment event

·         Annual Dinner on the Lake

·         Enter float or vehicle in the Carolina Lakes 4^th of July Parade