75 Years of Service: How the Clarendon Hills Lions Club Built a Legacy of Community Support
(Published December 27,2025 – Updated January 26,2026)
For 75 years,the Clarendon Hills Lions Club has quietly,consistently,and profoundly impacted the lives of residents in and beyond their village. unlike organizations seeking grand celebrations, the Lions Club marked its milestone anniversary in 2025 not with fanfare, but with continued, dedicated service – a testament to their enduring commitment to humanitarian work and community betterment. this commitment extends beyond local borders, contributing to the global mission of Lions International. But what makes this local chapter so resilient, and why does its impact resonate so deeply with the community it serves?
A Foundation Built on Need and Volunteerism
The core mission of the Clarendon Hills Lions Club remains steadfast: to provide vital humanitarian service and financial support.This isn’t simply about writing checks; it’s about actively identifying and addressing critical needs. From providing the gift of sight through eyeglasses and specialized reading equipment for the visually impaired, to tackling complex issues like drug abuse prevention, river blindness, and diabetes awareness, the club’s reach is both broad and deeply impactful.
“Serving as a member takes time, effort, and often involves challenging conditions,” explains Brian Keating, current President of the Clarendon Hills Lions Club. “But we do it as we believe in empowering others and fostering a greater sense of dignity in their lives.” This dedication isn’t born of obligation, but of a genuine desire to uplift the community.
The Power of ‘Giving Back’: A Long-standing Tradition
The longevity of the Clarendon Hills Lions Club is rooted in the personal commitment of its members. Bill Hamel, a Clarendon hills dentist practicing for nearly four decades and the Club’s Secretary as 1985, embodies this spirit. He joined on a friend’s proposal and has been a dedicated member ever since.
“My time is more valuable than my money,” Hamel states, succinctly capturing the essence of Lions Club membership. “It’s about philanthropy, about giving back. I’ve been blessed, and I feel a strong need to help those less blessed. And honestly, I got hooked – it’s a fantastic group of people.”
Currently boasting 51 active members (with a history of reaching 75), the club draws strength from the diverse backgrounds and experiences of its volunteers. Members are actively involved in various civic,faith-based,and professional organizations,bringing a wealth of knowledge and perspective to their collective efforts. As Keating emphasizes, “We come together as Lions, joining over 1.3 million members worldwide to address the specific challenges facing our community.”
The Christmas Tree Sale: A 60+ Year Legacy of Support
Perhaps the most visible and beloved tradition of the Clarendon Hills Lions Club is its annual Christmas Tree sale. For over 60 years, this event has been a cornerstone of the community, raising over $1 million for worthy causes. But its impact extends beyond fundraising.
In the 1960s and 70s, when Dutch elm disease devastated the village’s elm trees, the Lions Club channeled proceeds from the tree sale to plant over 1,000 new trees in Clarendon Hills parkways – a lasting symbol of their commitment to environmental stewardship and community beautification.
Jim Johnson, a long-time member, eloquently describes the sale’s enduring appeal: “It’s a tradition for generations of families. they come back year after year, wanting to give back in a tangible way. Some return because the Lions Club helped their families through tough times. Often, people come, see the good work we do, and are inspired to join us.”
The Christmas Tree sale isn’t just a fundraiser; it’s a community gathering, a symbol of generosity, and a recruitment tool for future Lions. Local students from Hinsdale Central and Hinsdale South high schools contribute to the effort, earning valuable community service credit while learning the importance of volunteerism.
From lions Park Pool to Modern Park Improvements
The Lions Club’s influence extends to the physical landscape of Clarendon Hills. The Lions Park Pool, operated by the Clarendon Hills Park District, stands as a testament to their early commitment to recreational facilities. While the club transitioned operational responsibilities to the Park district in 2003, their dedication to the pool’s future remained strong.
In 2024, the Lions Club actively campaigned for and helped secure the passage of an $8 million referendum to fund notable improvements to the pool and other