MADISON – Members of Madison Area Family Lions Club are continuing their efforts to promote the safety and health of one of an individual’s important senses and abilities . . . possibly the most valuable.

The Lions Club conducted eye screening recently at the Second Mile Preschool, 1000 Meadow Drive NW in Huntsville.

“Conducting eye screening is so important as students begin their journey of learning,” Club President LaToya Dorsey said. “We are glad to assist the Second Mile Preschool with this effort and hope to screen at more locations in the future.”

“The primary purpose of the event was to provide eye screening to the children at the preschool. Club members screened 21 children at this event,” Lions member John Emich said.

“The eye screening program is one aspect of the club’s ‘Vision for Learning’ program,” Emich said. “Three club members worked at performing this eye screening at the preschool. The eye screening identifies those students that may need further evaluation by an optometrist.”

The Second Mile Preschool opened in 1989 and provides opportunities for young children to learn by promoting kindergarten readiness through efforts of teachers and community volunteers.

In addition, Madison Area Family Lions Club pursues another vision service. With the Lions’ “Recycle for Sight” program, the club supports the collection of used eyeglasses. Club members confirm that the collected glasses are cleaned and prepared for distribution in developing countries where eye care is often unaffordable and inaccessible.

“It warms your heart when you see your efforts helping those in the community. This is what it means to be a Lion,” Emich said.

The club has collection boxes at various locations in Madison and Huntsville, and members encourage residents to give their former eyeglasses for use by in-need individuals.

“The Madison Area Family Lions Club is always looking for new members who want to serve their community. The club meets on the second Tuesday of every month at Dublin Park on Old Madison Pike at 6 p.m.,” Dorsey said. “Lions clubs are a recognized service organization who identify needs within their community and work together to fulfill those needs.”

For more information, email Tony Villamil at madisonlionsclub@gmail.com and visit Facebook/Madison Area Family Lions Club.