Caledon Lions Club celebrates 55 years of service, community impact and volunteerism while inspiring future generations to continue its legacy

This year, the Caledon Lions Club celebrates 55 years of service, dating back to 1971 when it was formed by Ken Bradley, who served as the president for many years until he passed away in the mid ‘90s.

This past week, Caledon Town Council celebrated the Lions Club and recognized all the hard work that the members take on.

David Cunningham, the current Caledon Lions Club president, took some time to talk about how much the club means to him and all the hard work that has been done.

“Reaching this milestone is incredible for us. It shows the community, the people who we are, Caledon in itself, the volunteers that put up their free time to come out and support the community,” says Cunningham. “This is a testament to a lifetime of dedication to the lions. Just being able on my end to honour Ken Bradley and all the hard work that he has done in creating this group and passing it down onto me is very special.”

Community and town council member Mauro Testani has also been a member of the local Lions Club for years and is moved by the growth and connection the Lions Club has as they reach this milestone.

“It's a testament that there is still goodness in the world. In my eyes to see that people come together to help each other and see that we still have that community in effect,” says Testani.

Over the past 55 years, the Caledon Lions Club has participated in a large number of events.

Looking back at all the hard work that has been done by the Lions Club, there are a few special fundraisers and events that really stand out.

Camp Dorset, a camp for individuals with diabetes fundraising for the Caledon Village Pool, supporting the Alton Legion and raising money for the blind to provide dog guides, and various barbecue events are just a few of the Lions Clubs' fundraising achievements.

Going to schools and speaking at other events is just one way that the Lions Club hopes to have younger members come and join the group.

Every year, the Lions Club hands out an award to the student who provides the most community service to their fellow peers and their surroundings, acknowledging their hard work and contributions.

“We need to raise children to be compassionate, caring and look after their neighbourhood,” says Testani. “That's what we are trying to promote with this award. We're trying to get younger people involved in community service and not just older people”.

Looking to the future, both Cunningham and Testani are hopeful that the Lions Club will continue the work that has already been accomplished for another 55 years.

Reflecting on this milestone, Caledon Lion's Club would like to acknowledge all the hard work of founder Ken Bradley as well as past and present members that had and continue to have such an important part in the community and making the Caledon Lion's Club what it is today.

“I hope that three years from now or 40 years from now people will still want to help out in their community and take the time out of their day to put in the work and support others just as we have and will continue to do,” says Cunningham.

For those interested in joining the Caledon Lions Club, more information is available at e-clubhouse.org/sites/caledon/contact.php