The Ava Lions Walk Run continues to gain momentum as the value of the runners’ packets continues to grow.
Many of the Springfield and Branson merchants and theaters have once again contributed to the Lions’ efforts to support the vision and hearing projects in Ava and Douglas County.
The second annual Lions Club Walk/Run will be held on Saturday, May 14.
Every year the Lions visit the schools in Douglas County and test the vision and hearing of all children from pre-kindergarten to 8th grade. If irregularities are found, the teacher and parents are notified so the child can be scheduled to see a doctor.
If the child does not have insurance and cannot afford either exam, the Ava Lions Club then steps in to assist that family with the exam and the purchase of glasses.
Jim Norman, chairman of the sight committee, said “The Lions do not pay for glasses if someone has insurance or does not want to pay their deductible. However, if a family or child needs the assistance, we do what we can to help them.”
In addition, the Ava Lions support the “Friday Feast” backpack program at the high school, and the Bear Closet which provides clothing, shoes and coats for the children that need them. All monies raised with the walk/run and other fundraising events of Ava Lions Club stays here in Ava and Douglas County.
The gifts for dinners and Branson show tickets are provided to the supporters of the walk run event. Those tickets are donated to the Lions and the Lions pass it on to the participants of the walk/run. The money raised, however, stays here to assist those children who need glasses or hearing aids.
“We have coordinated with Farmers Market and the Lions will be providing coffee in the gazebo on the square from 7 to approximately 11 a.m.,” stated Larry Morrison, walk/run chairman.
To date, the walk/run as received complimentary dinners at many restaurants in Ava, Branson and Springfield.
Local restaurants have donated coupons for a free drink or free dessert with each meal, as well as free sodas and free bottled water.
An elaborate picnic package was also donated this week by a local insurance company.
All totaled to date, gifts, items, discount coupons, free food coupons, dinners, Branson show tickets and other sponsors brings the total value of the packets to over $82,000. The goal of the Lions is to exceed $100,000 from this event.
Anyone who would like to be a sponsor, or any business that would like to include a special discount coupon in the packets may do so by contacting Larry Morrison, 683-0188 or any Lion member. “We can still use prizes of any value to provide the participants”, Morrison said. “Any donation anyone can provide will be sincerely appreciated.”
Register now. The Lions Walk/Run is Saturday, May 14. Registration fee is $10 plus one canned good which will be donated to Heart of the Hills Food Harvest in Ava.
