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Uncomplicating Home Organization

21 Thursday Jan 2021

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Over the course of the past nine months, many of us have spent more time in our homes than ever before. Due to the increased time at home, many of us have probably realized that we aren’t as organized as we’d like to be.

If your New Year’s Resolution includes home organization, but you are apprehensive to get started, know you’re certainly not alone. The idea of organizing an entire home can be both daunting and overwhelming, so we’ve compiled a few ideas to uncomplicate the process:

  1. Pace yourself

Don’t make the same mistake that many aspiring organizers make by believing everything needs to be done immediately. Yes, you may start out strong, but burnout can happen quickly if you don’t have a plan in place to keep your momentum high.

Set realistic expectations by assuming the job is not going to take an hour or even an afternoon. Consider starting with one area or room, dedicating 15 to 20 minutes to organizing the space. After taking the allotted time, you will either start seeing progress and want to keep going or feel accomplished enough to wait before starting the next area.

  1. Develop an exit strategy

It’s not enough just to sort through your possessions. You also need to have an action plan for the applicable items. Use boxes you collected over the holiday season to sort through all of your possessions. Box examples may include Toss, Store Elsewhere, Sell or Donate.

The next question you will likely ask is where you can donate items that you no longer want or need. You may be surprised to learn that you can support Wisconsin Lions with items taking up valuable space in your home.


Eyeglasses – Did you know that many developing countries lack the resources to manufacture quality lenses? The Eyeglass Recycling Center is working to help those who need eyeglasses to see clearly. At any particular time, the inventory available is about 125,000 pairs of glasses, which are then provided without cost to sponsors of Vision Mission projects. If you’d like to donate used eyeglasses, send them to 3834 County Road A, Rosholt, Wi 54473.
Hearing aids – the WLF Hearing Project works to promote awareness of hearing loss, knowledge about prevention, recognition and treatment. Wisconsin Lions collect and recycle used hearing aids for salvage credits then using them to reduce costs for purchase of new hearing aids for the project. Consider working with your club to organize a collection drive.  
Used cell phones – Next Tuesday, January 26, is International Mobile Phone Recycling Day. You can free up space in your junk drawer by donating your old mobile device. Contact the Wisconsin Lions Foundation for more information.

Who would have thought that by decluttering your home, you can also help an organization that is close to your heart – talk about a win-win!

  1. Ensure all items have a home

Is there anything more frustrating than not being able to find an item because you don’t know the last place you left it? The best way to resolve this issue is to make sure all of the items in your home have a place of their own. Of course, that’s easier said than done.

Come up with a plan by envisioning all of the activities that will take place in each room and find a storage solution that will work for all of the necessary items. This task will be one of the biggest challenges but will likely yield the most long-term results.

  1. Stick to a routine

After dedicating time to home organization, you will want your results to last. Whether you decide to spend the first part of your weekend decluttering the common areas or take 10 minutes each evening putting miscellaneous items away, find a routine that fits your lifestyle.

Home organization is a marathon, not a sprint! Do you plan on making organizing a top priority in 2021? Let us know in the comments below.

Happy organizing from Lions Pride!

How to Keep Active While Staying at Home

26 Thursday Mar 2020

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person holding white dough on brown wooden table

Photo by Elly Fairytale on Pexels.com

Unprecedented times call for extraordinary measures. This week, Governor Tony Evers instructed Wisconsinites to stay in their homes to help slow the spread of the novel coronavirus.

At this time, Wisconsin is not under lockdown, but instead an attempt for residents to limit unnecessary trips.  All non-essential businesses will be closed for the time being. Essential businesses include healthcare offices, grocery stores and caregiving facilities. See the entire list of essential business categories.

As we navigate the journey to find our new normal, at least for the time being, we’re here to help you and your immediate family stay active during the “Safer at Home” Order. We’ve compiled a list of ideas to keep busy during the pandemic:

  1. Discover free exercise videos on YouTubeAmid gyms and fitness studios closing, many physical trainers and instructors are turning to YouTube to provide high-quality video training. Whether you would consider yourself an amateur yogi, advanced cyclist or free weight enthusiast, you’re sure to find a video to fit your available equipment and physical abilities.
  2. Play a gameWhen was the last time your family gathered around the dining room table and played a board game? If you’re struggling to remember, it’s probably been too long. Get out everyone’s favorite game and play a quick round or two. Don’t forget to keep the hand sanitizer close! You may also want to consider disinfecting any necessary pieces before getting started.
  3. Try a new recipeWhile carry-out is still an option, those who would prefer to stay in can take this time as an opportunity to practice creativity in the kitchen. Ask friends about participating in a recipe swap or scour Pinterest to find a dash of inspiration.If you’re looking for another way to incorporate fun into your meal-time routine, find an obscure holiday to celebrate. Saturday, March 28, is Something on a Stick Day.
  4. Complete an unfinished projectWe’d be willing to bet that you don’t have to travel far to find a project that you wanted to finish “later.” (Don’t worry, we’re right there with you!) Later has officially arrived, so it’s time to take this opportunity to dust those fan blades, hang that picture or touch up paint in the living room.
  5. Call a friend or family memberDon’t forget to check in with your social circle during this time of uncertainty. Pick up the phone to call or video chat with a loved one that you haven’t talked with in a while. We can guarantee that they will love to hear your voice or see your face. Isn’t technology fantastic in a time when we can’t physically be together?
  6. Try a new craftWe hope we aren’t the only ones who have grand ambitions to try a new hobby. With so many of us not participating in our usual activities, it can feel like we are not using our brain to its fullest potential. Take some time to explore a new passion, such as woodworking, painting, podcasting or knitting. There are hundreds of thousands of tutorials online just waiting for you.
  7. Read a bookYou know the last time you binge-watched a TV series, but what about the last time you treated yourself to a good book? Spend an afternoon re-reading an old classic or peruse an electronic library to find a new favorite in a digital format.
  8. Go for a walkAlthough we are all encouraged to stay at home, Governor Evers mentioned that walks are still important. It’s common to feel cooped up at a time like this so, so be sure to get at least a few minutes of fresh air. Your body and mind will thank you for the break.
  9. Start a journalIt may be hard to believe, but we are currently living in a time that will be written about in history books. Document your experience of the coronavirus in a journal to remember what life years down the road. Although it may be difficult to imagine, it’s critical to keep in mind that this, too, shall pass.

How are you keeping busy during the “Safer at Home” Order? Let us know in the comments below to help us keep our readers engaged during this bizarre time.

The Lions Pride Office currently has limited hours of availability to cooperate with the Wisconsin “Safer at Home” Order. We already look forward to getting back to business but know that normal life will unfold in due time.

Stay safe out there!

Diabetes Awareness Month

08 Thursday Nov 2018

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We have arrived at the eleventh month of the year. If we were to ask you, “What is the Strides Lions for Diabetes Awarenessfirst topic that comes to mind when you think about November?”; what would you say? More than likely, your response would include something related to Thanksgiving, football or fall, but there is one other topic that should come to mind – diabetes. November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and we think it’s time to spread the word about the growing epidemic.

Diabetes is a long-lasting disease that impacts how your body turns food into energy. According to the CDC, approximately 30.3 million American adults have diabetes, and 1 in 4 don’t even know that they have the disease. People with Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes are at higher risk for other serious health complications including blindness, kidney problems, heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, nerve damage and more. Unfortunately, there is no known cure for diabetes at this time, but it is treatable with healthy lifestyle changes.

Lions Club International adopted diabetes awareness at a long-term commitment back in 1984. The primary object was to reduce the number of new cases of blindness caused by diabetic retinopathy. Wisconsin Lions are always on a mission to actively support LCI’s efforts, but November is an excellent opportunity to reach an even larger audience. If you and your club are looking to make a difference in the world of diabetes awareness, here are a few project ideas, courtesy of Lions Club International:

  • Conduct a local diabetes screening – Partner with healthcare professionals to carry out the event. Organizations such as government health departments, universities, hospitals and private physicians will often agree to perform free of low-cost public screenings. Learn more about getting started.
  • Organize a Strides event in your community – A Strides event is a highly visible, family-oriented activity that combines fun with exercise. Events can include walking, dancing, cycling or running. Find out more about organizing one today.
  • Start planning a school or community garden – Spring may not be top of mind this time of year, but it’s never too early to start thinking about next season gardening. Having fruits and vegetables readily available is always a great way to encourage others to make healthy meal choices.
  • Provide your local library with an annual diabetes magazine subscription – You can find industry publications with subscriptions as low as $10 a year. Talk about an affordable way to reach all curious library visitors!
  • Create a support group for those affected with diabetes – A support group will give you a chance to educate and inform others while creating a safe space for families suffering.

World Diabetes Day is Friday, November 15. There’s never been a better time to start planning a project to increase diabetes awareness. Already working on a large service project, or don’t think there’s enough time to get one started this month? You and your club can still help spread the word. When you support Lions Pride, you can designate your gift specifically for the WLF’s Diabetes Project – ensuring funding in perpetuity. Diabetes is no match to the power of Lions. Together, we can all work to inform and educate others to help prevent and control diabetes.

 

Plan a Tree Planting Project

26 Thursday Apr 2018

Posted by in Holidays, News, Special Events

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“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.” –ChineseTrees proverb

As the long living species on Earth, trees have an amazing ability to connect to the past, present and future, while also providing a whole slew of environmental and health benefits. Here in Wisconsin, many of us are lucky enough to be surrounded by trees of all shapes and sizes, but that doesn’t mean we should sit back and idle.

Tomorrow marks the observance of Arbor Day, and while the ground may still be a bit too frozen to physically plant a tree, there’s no better time to make plans for a club tree planting project.

As part of the Lions organization, we understand that every tree planted is part of a broader scale effort by members all over the world to make a significant impact on the environment. According to the European Environment Agency, one mature tree will absorb more than 48 pounds of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and release oxygen in exchange. Read more interesting tree facts from the Arbor Day Foundation.

Before creating your tree planting project, consider the following preparations from LCIF:

  • Evaluate your community’s needs – is there an area where new trees may be more beneficial over others?
  • Work with a local forestry or agriculture department to identify the most appropriate tree species for the local environment.
  • Partner with other local groups or organizations to leverage resources and expertise.
  • Outline a plan that includes procedures, materials needed and expenses.
  • Submit your plan and budget to your club, district or multiple district for approval.

Once your plan is approved, the fun can begin:

  • Request Lion volunteers for the project committee.
  • Obtain approvals or permit for your project, if necessary.
  • Create marketing materials such as a flyer, press release or social media post to promote the event – be sure to include protective clothing recommendations for volunteers!
  • Invite the local media to observe or take part in the project.
  • Remember, if your Lions Club participates, you will fulfill complete the Environment portion of the Centennial Service Challenge.

There’s no need to worry about rushing to complete your tree planting project. Some experts even say that planting in the fall can have its advantages. No matter when you decide to plant trees, remember that you are making an important contribution to both present day life as well as future generations.

Happy Arbor Day from Lions Pride!

The 2018 Worldwide Week of Service

11 Thursday Jan 2018

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Around the world, nearly 800 million people go to bed hungry each night. We Save the Date WWSunderstand that sometimes thinking globally can make it difficult to comprehend so let’s bring it a little closer to home. In Wisconsin alone, an estimated 633,170 people struggle with hunger – and of those individuals, 219,280 of them are children. This month, let’s join together to eliminate hunger around the globe, by starting in our own communities with the Worldwide Week of Service.

You may be thinking, ‘ how can we eliminate hunger in just a week’s span?’ That’s a good question. The truth is we can’t. While the official week of service only lasts until Sunday, January 14, Lions Club International has set a goal to serve 200 million people by the year 2021, which means now is the perfect time to start planning your next service project.

Here are some tips to get you start the planning process:

  1. Plan your project – choose a project that impacts hunger in your community. Many associate food pantries with hunger solutions; while they are a great resource, there are several other options out there. Consider a few of these ideas that complement food pantries:

    – Create the blueprints for a community garden
    – Distribute food baskets to those in need
    – Work with other organizations to organize a food drive
    – Start or support a weekend school backpack program
    – Raise funds to pay off overdue reduced lunch bills at your school

  2. Promote your project

The secret to a successful project is lots of promotions. Look to local news outlets, social media, banners, yard signs and other avenues to get the word out. Don’t be afraid to get creative! Often times, creativity is what makes events stand out from the crowd.

  1. Report your project

Be sure to submit your project to your MyLCI Service Activity Report when your project is complete. All service projects will help Lions Club International meet new levels of service in the Centennial Challenge.

Regardless of how you and your club choose to fight hunger, know that your efforts have a significant impact on your community. Together, we can all work to eliminate hunger, one project at a time.

Happy Planning from Lions Pride!

Celebrate the Season of Giving with St. Nick

07 Thursday Dec 2017

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While we may not have any white, fluffy snow on the ground (as ofStockings Were Hung writing), there is no question that the holiday season has arrived. Yesterday was the celebration of St. Nicholas. Although the holiday is a popular one in Europe, the day isn’t widely celebrated here in the United States, and we think it’s time to change that!

The story of St. Nick goes back to 4th century Greece. Nicholas of Myra officiated as a bishop after dedicating his life to giving to others. Sadly, his parents died in an epidemic when he was young. With his extensive inheritance, Nicholas decided to use his wealth to help the less fortunate. His signature act was leaving gold coins in people’s shoes around the city. Today, children leave out stockings or shoes on the eve of St. Nicholas and awake to find them filled with small gifts and trinkets. Of course, there is always the possibility that those who have been naughty will find nothing more than a lump of coal.

We may have missed the official holiday, but that doesn’t mean we can’t still celebrate the true meaning behind the season – focusing on giving more than receiving. Sometime in December, consider surprising your loved one by filling his or her stocking with fun, little gifts. There are endless possibilities for stocking stuffers – candy, jewelry, small toys, soap, notebooks, key chains and more. You can also include other intangible gifts such as a donation to their favorite charity in their honor.

By choosing to make a gift to Lions Pride, you can help us work to continue improving the lives of people all around Wisconsin. Your donation can help preserve, protect and provide for Lions Camp and all other WLF statewide projects – including eyeglass recycling, adult and children’s vision screening, diabetes education and more. If there is a project that is especially important to you or your loved one, simply designate the gift, and you can rest assured knowing that you’re helping the cause. Print the certificate and add it a stocking for a powerful gift that also gives back.

Together, we can all embody the spirit of St. Nicholas by remembering to include compassion and charity in our daily lives. After all, isn’t that the reason behind the season?

Happy Holidays from Lions Pride!

 

Thank a Veteran with an Invitation to Serve

03 Thursday Nov 2016

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We know that we’re a bit early, but veterans-dayVeteran’s Day is right around the corner. In only one short week, we will be celebrating our veterans on the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month of the year.

According to the US Census Bureau, there are over 21 million living veterans in the United States. On Veteran’s Day, we all get a chance to thank these heroes for their service, but as Lions, we have an opportunity to go one step further. We can show our appreciation by inviting them to serve with our clubs and reconnect with their communities.

In July 2013, Lions Club International introduced the Involve a Veteran Program. From now until June 30, 2017, qualifying veterans will receive waived entrance and chartered fees when they join a Lions Club. Eligible veterans include all branches of the US military – Army, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard personnel who are retired or honorably discharged. The National Guard and Reserve personnel who were called to active duty for other training are also eligible. Learn more about the program.

You can invite Veterans to your club with these simple recruiting tips:

  • Exhibit at a Veteran community event. (Now you can see why this post is a little early.)
  • Invite veterans to help serve at one of your club’s community projects.
  • Leave club brochures at your local VFW. There are over 30 locations in Wisconsin alone; find a location near you.
  • Honor veterans on your club’s social media accounts.
  • Start a new club branch with Veteran members.

This Veteran’s Day, join the 700 clubs that have taken advantage of this program and given veterans the chance to continue serving as a Lion.

Happy Veteran’s Day from all of us at Lions Pride!

International President Bob Corlew to Visit Wisconsin

29 Thursday Sep 2016

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Beep beep! The Centennial Bus Tour is centennial-bus-tourmaking its final stop in the second leg of its countrywide tour in Wisconsin this Saturday. Are you ready to serve alongside the president?

International President Bob Corlew started his bus tour at the beginning of the year to promote the Lions Centennial Celebration in an eye-catching, shrink-wrapped bus donning the new 100 logo. From February 18 to 27, 2016, he and his wife, Lion Dianne, and LCI staff drove through nine states in nine days. You can learn more about the first part of their adventure by visiting the Lions Club International Blog.

Now, they’re on the road once more, this time visiting the Northern States. So far, they’ve visited Ohio, Indiana, West Virginia, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont, with many more stops to make before getting to the Badger State.

District MD27 has a big day planned for them on Saturday. We will be counting eyeglasses, conducting eye screening and educating the public about diabetes from 12 pm to 2 pm at the Mars Cheese Castle in Kenosha, and from 4 pm to 6 pm at the Country Inn and Suites in Brookfield. We will end the day with a reception celebration and new member induction from 6 pm to 8 pm. What better way for new Lions to know that we all really are connected to members all over the world?

Can’t make it out this Saturday? You can still help the cause! October 1 is the first day of our statewide Centennial Project to collect 100,000 pairs of eyeglasses to donate. As always, all eyeglasses will be processed at our Eyeglass Recycling Center. We’d love for you to start collecting all unused glasses. More details will follow as they become available. Eyeglass Collection challenge ends May 7th, 2017.

We are looking forward to meeting and serving with the International President this weekend. What a great way to continue our Centennial Celebration! How are you celebrating our 100th anniversary?

Eyeglass Recycling for Sight Month

07 Thursday May 2015

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It seems that spring is finally here to stay. You know what that means – it’s time for Lions Pride Logo with Glassesspring-cleaning. The windows can finally be washed, the carpets can be shampooed and the closets can be organized. We have another idea for a spring-cleaning project that may not have originally come to mind.

Open your junk drawer, is there a pair of glasses in there that haven’t been worn in a while because your prescription has changed or you no longer care for the style? You know that if you have a pair of old eyeglasses lying around the house then there are probably others that do, too. It’s time to find these glasses a new home.

During the month of May, Lions and Lionesses have the opportunity to raise awareness for the importance of collecting eyeglasses. The need for eyeglasses is great, even more than you might think. Globally, one in four children cannot see well enough to learn to read without glasses. Plus, by the age of 40, 90% of adults experience a loss in eyesight that decreases their ability to read print.

Millions of people living in developing countries lack the funds needed to receive proper eye care, but we’re doing our part to help. At the Lions Eyeglass Recycling Center in Rosholt, we sort, clean and send eyeglasses to 49 different developing countries. Over the last 15 years, an average of 800,000 eyeglasses are received. We need your help to keep the momentum up.

This year, you could talk with friends and family to see if they have unused eyeglasses available to create a small collection OR you could greatly increase those efforts by establishing a new collection site in your community.

Eyeglass collection containers can be obtained free of charge from WLF or you can follow the lead of other Wisconsin Lions Clubs by creating a unique eyeglass collection receptacle of your own. If you have never completed an eyeglass collection campaign, there are many useful resources online to help you get started.

Let’s work together to help more people see the world more clearly. Start your eyeglass recycling today.