1.   Can you share a bit about the history and mission of the Rochester Lions Club?

A: Rochester Lions Club has been serving the community since 1929. We are men and women volunteering our time and energy to serve our community and help those in need. Rochester Lions Club is part of Lions Club International –the largest service organization in the world. 

2.   What are some of the key community projects or initiatives that the club has been involved in recently? 

A: Each year, we participate in two major local events: the Fulton County Fair and the Blueberry Festival, where we serve our famous soft-serve ice cream. The funds we raise from these events go right back into meeting needs within our community.

We’re also deeply committed to improving vision care. One of our long-standing members, Dale Landis, visits local elementary schools to conduct vision screenings for students—helping identify children who may need glasses and connecting families with resources for proper eye care.

Another initiative close to our hearts is our annual scholarship program for Rochester High School seniors. In recent years, we’ve expanded eligibility beyond college-bound students to include those pursuing technical certificates or trade training—such as cosmetology, welding, or plumbing—so we can support a wider range of career paths.

3.   What do you believe sets the Lions Club apart from other service organizations in the area? 

A: What sets the Lions Club apart is our willingness to directly support other groups and organizations in their efforts. We don’t limit our impact to a specific demographic—we help women, men, and children of all ages. Many local groups reach out to us for funding, and it truly brings us joy to know that, by providing those resources, we’re helping them make a difference in the community as well.

4.   How can local businesses and community members get involved or support your efforts?

A: One of the best ways to get involved is by joining our Club. Membership has declined in recent years, and while we’re always recruiting, some people hesitate—thinking they’re too busy or that they have nothing to offer. The truth is, everyone has something to contribute, whether it’s fresh ideas, energy, or community connections.

We’d love to see at least one representative from each local business join the Rochester Lions Club. We meet monthly, and our meetings are structured to be efficient—so we can get straight to business and then back out into the community.

If joining isn’t possible, you can still support us by donating funds or by purchasing ice cream from our trailer at community events. Every dollar helps us make a bigger impact.

5.   What are some of the club's upcoming events or goals for the next year? 

A: Our next big event is the Blueberry Festival, taking place August 30–September 1 in Plymouth, Indiana—a wonderful opportunity to make lasting family memories. If it’s not already part of your annual tradition, this is the perfect year to start. And while you’re there, be sure to visit the Rochester Lions Club Ice Cream Trailer—our volunteers love seeing familiar faces in the crowd!

6.   How can community members contact you?

A: you can connect with us on Facebook or reach out directly to our Club Secretary, Corinna Summers, at (765) 437-6672 (call or text) for more information. We also welcome visitors to our meetings—held on the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at The Lions Den, 102 Monticello Rd, Rochester, IN 46975. Stop by and see what we’re all about!