Submitted by barnard on
The Wild Rose Lions Club, established in 1952, has a history of dedicated service to the community. It all began when a group of visionary men gathered in October 1952 with a mission to create a Lions Club in Wild Rose. Their vision was bolstered by the support and guidance of the Poy Sippi Lions Club. In November 1952, 25 men from the Wild Rose area applied for membership with the Wisconsin Lions Office, and in December of the same year, the Wild Rose Lions Club was officially chartered.
In its early years, Lions Club International rules stipulated that membership was exclusively for men who were businessmen, professionals, or educators. The club thrived, holding meetings at local establishments until the late 1980s, when a pivotal moment transformed the club's trajectory. Lions International revised its rules, allowing anyone over the age of 21 to join a Lions Club. This progressive shift not only brought new faces into the fold but also opened the door for women to become members, marking a transformative milestone for the Wild Rose Lions Club. In 1989, women were welcomed with open arms, and their dedicated contributions have since played an integral role in shaping the club's philanthropic endeavors.
Today, the Wild Rose Lions Club boasts a dynamic membership of 37 members, with nearly half being women. Their collective dedication to service has earned them a reputation as a compassionate and impactful force within the community. Throughout the years, the club has organized a range of fundraising activities, from selling light bulbs, brooms, and popcorn at summer outdoor movies to hosting Wild Rose Days, a cherished community event. The club's commitment to giving back to the community is evident through their generous donations to various causes, including the Wisconsin Lions Camp for Handicap children and adults near Rosholt, WI, and support for local school district programs benefiting children and families in need.
The Wild Rose Lions Club's motto, "Service, Simply Helping others," resonates deeply with its members, who continue to seek new recruits year-round, welcoming residents of the Wild Rose Area to join their ranks. As the club looks to the future, their unwavering dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of others remains steadfast, driven by the spirit of compassion and camaraderie that unites them in their noble mission.