Wauconda Lions Club awarded for community service

The Wauconda Lions Club was awarded "Lions Club of the Year" for exemplary service to their community and performance as a club in the 2014-2015 year.

The special recognition was made by Lions of Illinois District 1-F, which represents more than 40 Lions Clubs in Lake and Cook County. It was presented last month to Wauconda at the district convention in Northbrook.

Club President David Geary accepted the award for the membership. He said the award was due to hard work in the community and expanding the membership. The Lions has been serving the community for more than 74 years.

The local chapter was chartered in 1941 and has continued the long tradition of supporting the community. The club motto is "We Serve," and the Wauconda organization has always viewed its mission broadly and given back in many ways to the local community.

Longtime member and past President Glenn Swanson noted the club's involvement in helping individuals in need of assistance and supporting other community groups and events.

In addition, Lion Jim Kaiser was named "Lion of the Year" for his dedication and service to the Lions Club. Kaiser is also the club's annual Hawaiian vacation raffle chairman.

The Hawaiian raffle is the largest fundraiser of the year for the club, and the winning ticket will be drawn again at this year's Street Dance Sept. 5.

For information about becoming a Lion, contact the Lions Club Membership Chairwoman Emily Dato at emilydato@yahoo.com.