Sixty years of invaluable work from Waterford Lions Club

Waterford Lions Club have been celebrating their sixty remarkable years of service to the local community.

From supporting local charities to organizing community events, the Lions Club has consistently demonstrated the true spirit of volunteerism in Waterford.

The club has been an integral part of the city and county for six decades and its contribution to community life and commitment to improving the lives of those in need was marked with a Mayoral Reception last week.

Mayor of Waterford Cllr Jason Murphy warmly welcomed over 30 members to the Mayor’s Parlour in City Hall, saying, “As Mayor, I have witnessed first-hand the positive impact of the Lions Club's initiatives.

“The Lions Club's efforts have not only addressed immediate needs but have also fostered a sense of unity and solidarity among the communities of Waterford.

"Your dedication and hard work have made Waterford a brighter and more compassionate city. As we look to the future, I am confident that the Lions Club will continue to inspire and lead by example.” 

Some of the club's fundraising efforts were emphasized by the Mayor during the reception, included their annual Christmas Hamper Appeal, Senior Citizens Dinner, Trees for Life, Mental Health Awareness, Spectacle Recycling, Cycle for Hospice, Young Ambassador, and the support of countless other local charities. Their support of international Lions in countries that have experienced natural disasters and war has also brought about meaningful change and uplifted countless individuals.

Meanwhile, on Friday last Waterford Lions Club celebrated its six decades of service at the The Garden Room of The Medieval Museum in the presence of Metropolitan Mayor Cllr. Joe Kelly, Bishop of Waterford and Lismore Alphonsus Cullinan, Director of Services at Waterford City and County Council Ivan Grimes, James O'Loughlin, District Governor Lions Club Ireland, fellow Lions and guests. The event was kindly sponsored by John P O’Donohoe Solicitors.

Speaking after the event, Waterford Lions Club President, William Cuddihy, said to the Waterford News & Star that it has been an honour to receive such plaudits in recent weeks and to celebrate the club's vast history.

“When the Mayor’s Reception was mentioned to the club we were blown away that we would be recognised. With Waterford Lions Club we’re happy to be in the shadows and do everything in the background, but this was something I know every single person in the club truly valued, Being recognised by Mayor Jason Murphy and the wider community was a real honour."

Mr. Cuddihy said that what makes the club so important for both its members and the wider community, is the lasting legacy and influence that previous generations of members have left behind for the present and for the future.

“We have some members here who have been here for 50 years plus. What we have seen is that people who have supported us over the years, their children are now getting involved and helping to support us as well, so it has a real family feel.

“Volunteering can be challenging, but we’re fortunate in Waterford Lions Club that we have new members coming in too. They bring new ideas with them and they get stuck into the various activities we have and it’s a breathe of fresh air. It's great that we are seeing new people coming in the whole time to continue supporting vital causes in Waterford."

The club’s unwavering commitment to fundraising has made a significant impact over the past 60 years, a legacy that is set to continue well into the future.

Mr. Cuddihy said that every penny raised within the club goes into supporting vital needs in Waterford.

 “What sets us apart in Waterford Lions Club is every single Euro we fundraise goes to those in need."

"As a club we pay to be members so there’s no cost taken out for running the club, we cover all that ourselves, meaning 100% of the funds we manage to fundraise go to those in need."