The Ipswich Lions Club was recently named Club of the Year for Lions District 5 South West. District Secretary Neil Vollmer of Newell made the announcement.

The club received the honor during the recent District 5 South West Fall Rally held virtually from Rapid City. Other Lions Club winners taking home honors this year included: Custer Lions Club, second place; Newell Lions Club, third place; Rapid City Rushmore Lions Club, fourth place and Onida Lions Club, fifth place.

The Club of the Year is awarded based on the number of points each club earns during the year. Points are awarded for a variety of things including local fundraising and community service activities. The Ipswich Lions Club handles concessions for Ipswich High School Athletic Activities, awards four $500 scholarships each year to graduating seniors, supports local causes such as helping to purchase a new enclosed trailer for the Ipswich School and supporting the Tiger Post. The club also donates to Lions International and Leader Dog programs to serve those in times of need. The cost to provide one leader dog to a visually impaired person is upwards of $25,000.00 per dog.

The Ipswich Lions Club usually meets the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. in the U.C.C. Church Fellowship Hall. Club Officers for 2020-2021 include: Jerry Brooks, Club President; Rich Lacher, First Vice President; Deanne Hoyle, Club Treasurer and Colleen Forkel, Club Secretary.

If you are interested in joining the Ipswich Lions Club, contact a club officer or member. New members are always welcome.