Franklin North Carolina Lions Club

The Lions of Franklin NC Welcome You!

Chartered 1939
Since 1939 the Lions Club of Franklin, North Carolina has proudly served the citizens of Macon County. Being a Lion is about leading by example, building relationships and improving the world through kindness. To say it simply, "We Serve".

Our many community service projects include: Assitance with Eyeglasses and Exams, Services for the Blind, Scholarships for High School Seniors, and we're pretty sure you've seen the American Flags we fly for area businesses on holidays.

If you would be interested in becoming a member of the Franklin Lions Club or volunteering with our efforts, feel free to contact us or speak with one of our members! We would love to have you join us in serving others.



Franklin NC Lions Club BBQ Dinner Fundraiser

Mark your calendars for Friday, April 19, 2024 and come join the Franklin Lions Club for our BBQ Dinner Fundraiser! Hours will be from 4:00pm to 7:00pm at the Louisa Methodist Church Fellowship Hall.

Cost will be $10.00 per person and you may Drive Thru or Dine In. Your plate will include: Pulled BBQ Pork, Baked Beans, Coleslaw, Rolls, Dessert and Drink. All proceeds will benefit our local service projects.

This event is sponsored by Zeus' Ridgecrest Automotive and will be catered by Tony & Teresa Pecoraro BBQ & Catering.

Tickets are available now from any member of the Franklin Lions Club. Be sure to follow the Franklin Lions Club on our Facebook page.

We hope you will come join us!!

 



ISRAEL JACKSON RECEIVES 2023 FRANKLIN LIONS SCHOLARSHIP

 

Israel Jackson Franklin NC Lions Scholarship RecipientIsrael Jackson of Franklin High School was awarded the Franklin Lions Club's Annual Scholarship during the school's Annual Scholarship Night.

Israel will receive $1,000 per year toward his higher learning. He plans to attend Western Carolina University.

Israel, who already has his CNA, will be pursuing a degree in Nursing at WCU.

Our congratulations and best wishes for continued success to Israel Jackson.

We also thank those of you that support our many fundraising efforts that make the Franklin Lions Annual Scholarship Program possible!

Pictured: Above Israel Jackson receives the Franklin Lions Club's Annual Scholarship from Lion President Ruth Hensz-Stilwell.

Photo Courtesy: The Franklin Press




HOWARD HAITHCOCK INDUCTED INTO NC LIONS HALL OF FAME

 

Howard Haithcock North Carolina Lions Hall of Fame Inductee 2023Howard Haithcock of Franklin, NC was posthumously elected to the North Carolina Lions Hall of Fame during the association’s 99th State Convention held April 27 to 30, 2023, in Greensboro, North Carolina.

“All who met Lion Howard would never think that this giant of a man had the compassionate heart that was the epitome of Lionism,” said District Governor Marilyn Wunderler. “His selfless service not only to his community but people across the State of North Carolina is immeasurable. We are proud to honor his contributions to Lions with his induction in the North Carolina Lions Hall of Fame.”

His son and member of the Franklin Lions Club, Pete Haithcock was on hand to accept the honor in his memory.

Haithcock joined the Franklin Lions Club in 1957 and held all offices and major project chairmanships within the club including president. He also held a perfect attendance record for over 30 years.

In 1967, he became the first District Governor to be elected from the rolls of the Franklin Lions Club for fiscal year 1967-1968. He was also elected to Chairman of the North Carolina State Council in Chicago in 1967.

Haithcock took the lead in what is now Lions District 31-L. Under his direction, operational improvements were made to Eliada Home in Asheville, the Marjorie McCune Center in Black Mountain and Camp Dogwood near Charlotte.

Under Howard’s leadership, the “white cane” program flourished as well as Special Olympics for handicapped children.

Lion Howard was always instrumental in eye screenings, assisting with the purchase of eye vans and sponsoring screenings throughout the community with local volunteer nurses.

Haithcock realized the importance of women as future club members and fully supported Lion Pat Shepherd from the Hendersonville club who became the first female club president in western North Carolina. He also mentored many club presidents and sponsored numerous club members inductions for the West district.

In recognition of his service to the association, he received numerous awards including the Melvin Jones Award, Jack Stickley Fellow, District Lion of the Year, 100% Governor’s Award and 100% Secretary from the late 1970’s through 1993.

Lion Howard Haithcock passed away in 2002 at 93 years of age having served as a faithful Lion for 43 years.

 



Lions Clubs International ThemeWhen caring people join together, roll up their sleeves and take action to make their community better, it’s a beautiful thing
—and an incredible feeling for everyone involved. That’s Lions. Since It’s inception in 1917, Lions International has grown to more than 48,000 clubs around the world with 1.4 million caring men and women serving together to make a lasting impact and change more lives.

The Franklin Lions Club was chartered in 1939 and has carried on the vision of Lionism for over 80 years. Since being chartered, Franklin Lions have served thousands of residents in Macon County and made a lasting impact in our many communities.

Back in 1925, Helen Keller addressed the Lions international convention in Cedar Point, Ohio. She challenged Lions to become "knights of the blind in the crusade against darkness." From this time, Lions clubs have been actively involved in service to the blind and visually impaired. 

The Franklin Lions Club proudly carries on this call to action today. If you need eyecare and can't afford an examination or glasses, we may be able to help. Simply complete our Contact Form for additional information.

 



FRANKLIN LIONS CLUB MONTHLY MEETINGS

 

The Franklin Lions meet the second and fourth Monday of each month at the Louisa Chapel Methodist Church Fellowship Hall at 6:00pm.

Directions: take 64 West. Louisa Chapel is the first left after you go through stoplight at Sloan Road. Stay on Louisa Chapel Road. When you pass September Embers Dr. on left church is on left ... 470 Louisa Chapel Road.

Franklin Lions Club Service Projects

"Where there is a need, there is a Lion." - Melvin Jones
Vision Assistance Franklin NC Lions Club

Vision Assistance Services

If you are in need of financial assistance for eyeglasses or an eye exam, the Franklin Lions Club may be able to help.

Applicants are screened by the Franklin Lions Club to determine need and available assistance.

Request assistance by clicking here for our application.

» APPLY FOR VISION ASSISTANCE

WNC Lions McCune Center Black Mountain NC

McCune Assisted Living Center

The Marjorie McCune Memorial Center is a licensed Adult Care Home owned and operated by the Lions of Western North Carolina.

Located in Black Mountain, North Carolina, the center is nestled in the Swannanoa Valley of Buncombe County in a country setting. The Marjorie McCune Memorial Center offers both Assisted and Independent Living opportunities.

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NC Lions Camp Dogwood

Camp Dogwood, Lake Norman

Since 1967, Camp Dogwood for the Blind & Visually Impaired has been a beacon of service to citizens from all over North Carolina. This summer destination provides a wonderful and therapeutic vacation retreat for persons with blindness and visual impairment.

Every summer, up to 880 campers enjoy weekly stays with numerous recreational and entertaining activities. Guests enjoy fun and relaxation while developing friendships with each other staff, and volunteers.

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