Crawfordville Lions Club Members Discuss Their St. Patrick's Day Festival 2026 and More

"Where there’s a need, there’s a Lion." — Buddy Wells n the heart of Crawfordville, Florida, a group of dedicated individuals is proving that the greatest vision isn't just about what you can see—it’s about what you can do for others. The Crawfordville Lions Club, part of the world's largest service organization, continues to live out its simple yet profound motto: "We Serve." Recently, we had the privilege of sitting down with several club members, including President Andy Keith and past District Governor Buddy Wells. What we discovered was a group of people whose passion for their community is matched only by their commitment to those in need. From food pantry donations to supporting 4-H clubs, the Lions are everywhere, but their primary focus remains on the "gift of miracles"—restoring sight and hearing for those who have nowhere else to turn. President Andy Keith shared a touching story of a local gentleman who required an expensive eye operation that insurance wouldn’t cover. The Lions stepped in, provided the $1,800 upfront, and shortly after, the man and his wife returned to a meeting with tears of joy. "He had never seen this well," Andy recalled. "It’s really a good feeling to help the people here in the county." This sentiment is echoed by Buddy Wells, a long-time member and former Supervisor of Elections. Buddy’s connection to the Lions is personal; he remembers the Sopchoppy Lions Club providing glasses for his sister when his parents couldn't afford them. Today, he helps lead the charge for others, recounting a recent collaboration between local clubs to provide a cochlear implant for an eight-year-old girl. "To see that little girl putting her hands up to her ears... it made my heart swell up," Buddy said. The club’s primary engine for this charity is the annual St. Patrick’s Day Festival and Parade. Scheduled for Saturday, March 21st, 2026, the event is a cornerstone of the Crawfordville community. It features a vibrant parade beginning at 10:00 AM, followed by a festival in Hudson Park filled with vendors, food, and entertainment. It is also the time for their major annual raffle, featuring prizes like a full-day pontoon boat rental and significant cash awards. But beyond the festivals and the raffles, the Lions Club is about the invitation to be part of something bigger than oneself. As current Supervisor of Elections Joe Morgan noted, the impact of the Lions is "absolutely unparalleled." While members "pay to volunteer" through their dues, the reward is found in the eyes of a child who can finally see the chalkboard or a neighbor who can finally hear the voices of their loved ones. For those looking to make a difference, the Lions currently meet every Tuesday at Myra Jean’s. Whether you are looking for assistance or looking for a place to serve, the message of the Crawfordville Lions remains clear: whenever there is a need, a Lion will be there to help meet it.