Community Resources

Who are Lions Lions are men and women who volunteer their time to humanitarian causes by raising funds and conducting service projects, especially in the areas of sight and hearing. Lions strive to help those in need whenever need exists. Helen Keller challenged Lions to become "Knights of the Blind in the crusade against darkness." Therefore, our primary mission is to aid the blind and visually impaired. Lions participate in service activities, education, research, and community welfare. LIONS SERVE!

Leesburg Food Bank is a 501(C)3 Non-Profit Corporation, staffed by unpaid volunteers who assist those in need with food, clothing and other essentials. Our mission is to alleviate hunger of those in need by obtaining and distributing food and other essentials in the City of Leesburg and adjacent communities. No fees or costs are charged to our clients who receive assistance.

The Leesburg Food Bank is committed to excellence in service, products and operation, we treat all clients with respect, dignity and courtesy, we use our resources wisely, with accountability to our donors and concern for the environment, and we are honest and fair in our dealings with others.

The Citizen Observer Patrol (C.O.P.) is a volunteer division of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) whose main purpose is to reduce crime by alerting the Sheriff’s Office of potential or actual criminal behavior. The program is comprised of neighborhoods, much like your own, that have decided to insure the safety of their community by forming a partnership with the MCSO. Volunteers wear uniforms and drive specially-marked vehicles that proudly display to any potential criminal that they are the eyes and ears of law enforcement within that community. There are mounted units in areas that require off-road access in order to patrol properly. Several units have bicycle patrols in addition to the patrols in vehicles. A special parks unit is set up to patrol all the parks within Marion County.

Joining the Lions Club is a transformative journey that extends far beyond mere membership; it's an invitation to be part of a global community committed to service and social impact. As a Lion, you become a catalyst for positive change, engaging in a myriad of philanthropic initiatives that touch lives locally and globally. Our motto of "We Serve" underscores our dedication to addressing pressing humanitarian needs, from providing vision care and disaster relief to supporting youth development and community enrichment.

Meetings are held on Thursdays at 7:30 am at Captiva Recreation Center, 658 Pinellas Place in The Villages.   A MESSAGE FROM OUR Club: As we start the Rotary year, I have been thinking about ways we can build a better club and improve retention of club members. In order to address this issue, we need to consider what does our club provide to members (both current and potential)? I believe there are three main themes we can mention when giving our elevator speech about why someone may consider being a member. 1st Rotary provides an opportunity for fun and fellowship. 2nd Rotary provides an opportunity for career networking and leadership development. 3rd Rotary provides an opportunity to be of service to our local, national, and international community. For example, whether it be an evening out to celebrate with other Rotarians, doing work as a board member for either the club or foundation or an opportunity to work with others on district and global grants, Rotary makes a difference in the lives of the members of our club(s) and the community at-large. Please consider telling your friends and neighbors about all the great things that Rotary embodies. Have a great month and we hope to see you at our meetings. Todd Freeman