STRIDES FOR DIABETES

The Strides: Lions Walk for Diabetes Awareness program is an effective way for Lions to educate their communities about diabetes prevention and control.  It is an exciting and active method of informing the public about diabetes and diabetic retinopathy, the leading cause of vision loss in adults of working age in industrialized countries.  Today, every Lions club, district, and multiple district can organize a Strides: Lions Walk for Diabetes Awareness.  The Strides Information Packet which can be purchased from LCI for US$5 details how to implement a Strides Lions Walk in your community.

 

The Lions Diabetes Awareness Program was introduced in 1984 when Lions became involved in diabetes education because Diabetic Retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness among people between the ages of 20 to 74.  Nearly one-half of people with known diabetes have some degree of diabetic retinopathy.

 

Lions Diabetes Education Month is celebrated during the month of November and all Lions clubs, districts, and multiple districts are encouraged work with healthcare professionals to implement diabetes awareness projects in their communities during the month of November or another time that fits into the Club calendar.

 

Diabetes Project Suggestions:

  • Show the outstanding new film presentation, "Protect Your Vision: The Dilated Eye Exam" at Lions club meetings and community events;
  • Organize a Strides Walk to promote diabetes awareness;
  • Contact local healthcare professionals to organize vision and blood glucose screenings in accordance with local health laws within your community;
  • Sponsor a mobile unit for diabetes screenings;
  • Distribute diabetes brochures within community; and/or
  • Organize another type of fundraiser to support diabetes research.

 

Remember to get your community youth involved.  Let them go out and get walk-a-thon sponsors, hand out brochures, make posters in a communitywide education program, or have them come up with their own concept to promote Diabetes Awareness.

 

See the materials list BY materials list by clicking on the below link that can be purchased from Lions International Supply Division.  For additional information regarding the Diabetes Awareness Program, contact Lions Club International, Children’s Services Department, 300 W 22nd Street, Oak Brook Il 60523-8842.

MATERIALS LIST