Programs That Change Lives Across South Dakota
At the South Dakota Lions Foundation, we serve — and we’ve been doing it for generations.
Our legacy is built on thousands of life‑changing moments: a child seeing clearly for the first time, a senior regaining independence with new hearing aids, a family receiving help when they had nowhere else to turn.
Every program we offer is rooted in one mission:
to improve vision, hearing, and quality of life for people across South Dakota.
Below is an overview of the programs that make this work possible.
We collect, sort, and prepare thousands of donated eyeglasses each year. These glasses are distributed through Lions humanitarian missions and partner organizations, giving people around the world access to clear vision they otherwise could not afford.
Our flagship children’s program provides free vision screenings for infants, toddlers, and school‑aged children. Using advanced screening technology, Lions volunteers identify early signs of vision problems so children can receive care before learning is affected.
Early detection changes lives — and we screen thousands of children every year.
Through our hearing assistance partnerships, we help individuals who cannot afford hearing aids gain access to the devices they need. Clear hearing restores connection, confidence, and independence.
For South Dakotans facing financial barriers, we provide support for eye exams, glasses, and medically necessary vision services. Working with local clinics and Lions clubs, we ensure that cost never stands between someone and the care they need.
Other Programs & Community Support
From diabetes awareness to youth leadership, environmental initiatives, and statewide volunteer engagement, Lions serve wherever we are needed. Our programs evolve with community needs, and we continue to expand our impact through partnerships, innovation, and service.