Our History

History of Florida Lions Foundation for the Blind

– Now Lions Saving Sight

The Florida Lions Foundation for the Blind has a long history, having been founded in 1958 and becoming an official Florida Lions organization by the 34th Annual State Convention. The foundation has earned recognition for its effectiveness and integrity from Lions organization members across te state. It has also become a model for other states to create similar foundations. The foundation's mission to provide sight-saving surgeries to people who cannot afford procedures like cataract surgery or corneal transplants.


Established in 1978, it has actively supported individuals with visual impairments in Florida. The Florida Lions Foundation for the Blind, Inc. was founded in 1958 to offer vision care to those in need through the Lions of Florida (Multiple District-35).


Later, the Foundation's scope of operations expanded to include grants supporting Lions-sponsored or Lions-affiliated sight care organizations within MD-35. Often, club members hear of someone needing eye surgery but lacking insurance and funds to cover the cost. Our Director of Operations collaborates with local doctors and facilities to lower medical expenses, improving our ability to help those in need. Being able to negotiate and work with our physician parteners allows more patients to receive eye care.  

Lions Clubs International logo: Yellow lion heads flanking blue and yellow circle with a yellow

History of Milestones for

Lions Foundation for the Blind

The Lions Foundation for the Blind has a rich history of milestones that have shaped its mission and influence. Here are some key highlights:

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The Lions Clubs International Convention in Cedar Point, Ohio, USA, where

Helen Keller challenged Lions to become "knights of the blind in the crusade

against darkness."

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The Lions Clubs International Convention in Cedar Point, Ohio, USA, where Helen Keller spoke to Lions, highlighting their part in the fight against blindness.

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The launch of the SightFirst campaign, a global effort to restore sight and prevent blindness, with Lions and Leos actively involved in the program.

2017

The centennial celebration of Lions Clubs International, marking a hundred years of service and impact. These milestones emphasize the Lions Foundation's dedication to improving the quality of life for people with vision and hearing needs, as well as its commitment to global humanitarian efforts

What began with The Lions Foundation of the Blind continues with Lions Saving Sight, guided by a forward-looking vision for sight-saving programs that serve our communities with grace and humility.


This ongoing commitment to improve communities by helping and financially supporting those who are visually impaired remains a core part of our mission. Although our name has changed, our mission stays the same: to serve, empower, and restore sight, one person at a time, Today, Lions Saving Sight provides essential funding for surgeries for those in need while partnering with communities to prevent preventable blindness.