Causes we support

Lions serve to improve human flourishing, and we see how the global hunger and nutrition crisis bears upon our local communities. We believe community improvement depends on the thriving of its members. 

On the second Tuesday of each month the Cortland Lions Club partners with DeKalb County Community Gardens to provide a food pantry for those in need. 

Lions are known throughout the world for their work to improve the lives of the visually impaired and prevent avoidable blindness. Cortland Lions Club works with local licensed opticians to provide vision screening and glasses for Cortland residents and Cortland Elementary School students.

Lions also repurpose used eyeglasses to those in need. If you have reading glasses, prescription or 'cheaters' that you no longer need, please drop them off at the Lions club so that we can provide them to an individual in need. Glasses can also be dropped off at the Cortland Community Library.

 An estimated 463 million adults across the world are living with diabetes, and its prevalence is increasing rapidly. By 2045, the number is expected to reach 700 million. Diabetes is a global epidemic that touches every corner of the globe.

Lions Clubs International and LCIF are dedicated to empowering Lions around the world to fight diabetes by serving their communities one by one.

Whenever and wherever disaster strikes, Lions are often among the first to offer aid. LCIF is ready to support their efforts with funding assistance through global disaster relief programs.  With a disaster grant, they can do even more for communities devastated by hurricanes, floods, fires and other major events. As a foundation, we are proud to offer a variety of grant options to support various stages of disaster relief operations.  From July 2022 to January 2023, LCIF has awarded 173 disaster relief-related grants totaling US$3,562,047. 

 Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) is proud to be a founding member of The Choose Kindness Alliance, a coalition of the nation’s leading nonprofit organizations championing bullying prevention, intentional inclusion, and youth mental wellness.

The Choose Kindness Project is an initiative, guided by the 20+ members of the alliance and supported by ABC, ESPN, and the Walton Family Foundation, dedicated to inspiring a more inclusive world where all young people feel empowered to be themselves and safe to create the futures they imagine.

 The humanitarian efforts of Lions have been notable and celebrated for more than 100 years. Working together, Lions identify the world’s most crucial needs and LCIF supports them in their efforts to provide humanitarian aid where it’s needed most. 

Humanitarian spirit is at the core of every Lion. Helping Lions take this spirit of kindness to their communities is Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF), uniquely privileged to provide clubs and districts with grant funding to create a healthier, happier world.