> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: /llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # Lions Clubs help make a difference in the communities they serve - URL: /lions-clubs-help-make-a-difference-in-the-communities-they-serve/ - Published: 2026-06-19T13:58:06.000Z - Updated: 2026-06-19T13:58:06.000Z - Description: Central Manitoulin’s mayor and local leaders praised the Lions Club for nearly 50 years of service, highlighting their crucial fundraising for hospital equipment and post-secondary student bursaries. - Author: Expositor Staff - Tags: Mindemoya Homecoming, Central Manitoulin, Community CENTRAL MANITOULIN—The Lions Club motto “We Serve” is heavily evidenced through the work of the Central Manitoulin Lions Club and there are many groups who have greatly benefited from this club. Central Manitoulin Mayor Richard Stephens is one of the remaining charter members of the Central Manitoulin Lions Club. He, along with the late Bob Runnalls, Peter Stiles and Moe Keller, founded the club in 1976. “Dale (Scott) has been president for some time and does a super job,” said Mayor Stephens. “Introducing Ribfest into the program has brought in more patrons to the community,” the mayor added. “It’s been a long haul for the Lions, and they continue to find ways and means of staying active, expanding with new ventures and activities that keep the club more in tune with what the community wants.” Mayor Stephens called Homecoming a “big benefit,” noting the hundreds of extra people who visit the businesses as a result. “Everyone gets a piece of the pie. I thank them for their long-time contributions to this community.” Paula Fields, CEO and president of Manitoulin Health Centre (MHC) echoed the mayor’s sentiments. “The Central Manitoulin Lions Club continues to demonstrate extraordinary commitment to our community through its extensive fundraising efforts in support of local hospital care. At a time when hospitals receive little to no provincial capital funding for many essential pieces of equipment — including X-ray machines, IV pumps, patient beds, and ultrasound equipment — community fundraising has become absolutely critical.” “The Lions Club has consistently gone above and beyond to help ensure our hospital can continue providing safe, modern and reliable care close to home,” Ms. Fields continued. “Their dedication, volunteer spirit and generosity are making a direct and meaningful impact on healthcare services for residents across Manitoulin Island and surrounding communities.” “On behalf of the MHC board of directors and our entire team, we would like to extend our sincere best wishes to the Central Manitoulin Lions Club for another successful Homecoming Weekend!” added Dennis McGregor, MHC board chair. “More importantly, we would also like to express our sincere gratitude to the Central Manitoulin Lions Club for your ongoing support of all out fundraising campaigns over the years. Unfortunately, hospitals are underfunded in Ontario and we have to rely on fundraising campaigns for equipment and infrastructure and your organization has always stepped up and supported MHC.” “We look forward to our continued relationship with the Central Manitoulin Lions Club and we again thank you for all you do for the people of Manitoulin Island,” Mr. McGregor continued. Karlene Scott is one of Central Manitoulin’s most prolific volunteers, organizing events like Pearson Cup, Providence Bay Ambassador of the Fair contest and so much more. “The Central Manitoulin Lions Club stands out as a remarkable organization comprised of devoted volunteers who consistently invest their time and energy to enrich the Central Manitoulin community,” Ms. Scott told The Expositor. “Their steadfast dedication to service reflects a true passion for having a positive and lasting impact on residents in their community. Their unwavering generosity shines through in their ongoing financial support, which plays a vital role in nurturing the community and fulfilling a diverse array of local needs. The Central Manitoulin Lions Club consistently gives back, offering substantial assistance to students at Central Manitoulin Public School and Manitoulin Secondary School (MSS), by supporting numerous extracurricular activities—including sports teams, robotics programs, breakfast initiatives and ice time rentals. Each year, the Central Manitoulin Lions Club exemplifies their dedication to education by awarding three generous bursaries of $750 at the MSS Awards Night. This initiative makes a meaningful difference, enabling Central Manitoulin graduates to pursue post-secondary studies and move closer to achieving their academic aspirations.” (This year’s awards went to Rhys Allison, Ethan Cooper and Zachary Gibbons.) “Beyond supporting students, the Lions Club actively encourages a variety of youth programs within the community, fostering growth and opportunity for young people,” Ms. Scott added. “Their commitment extends even further as major supporters of the MHC in Mindemoya, highlighting their ongoing investment in the well-being of the region. The Central Manitoulin Lions Club truly embodies their motto, “We Serve.” Through their unwavering dedication and generosity, they set a remarkable standard for community involvement, inspiring others to follow their lead and make a positive impact throughout Central Manitoulin.” The Central Manitoulin Lions Club has, for almost 50 years, supported its community through donations to important causes and giving back through community events like Homecoming Weekend, a thank you to the people who support their important efforts all year long.