Kaylin was born with a serious hearing impairment. Her ear canals and ear drums were not developed. Consequently, without proper hearing ability, her speech was poor and she experienced a learning disability. Communication was difficult at home and with playmates.

Two years ago, Lake Ozark Lions Club learned of Kaylin's problems and immediately took action to help her. The Club is an on-going financial sponsor of Mid-South Lions Sight and Hearing Service, located in Memphis, TN, in concert with Methodist Hospital Central. Lake Ozark Lions applied for and received admittance for Kaylin to undergo examination, corrective surgery and subsequent training. Following several operations and a special hearing instrument, also provided by the Lake Ozark Lions, Kaylin now has almost achieved the good hearing she was denied at birth. Mid-South Lions arranged for a local rehabilitation school and this courageous little girl has caught up with other six-year-olds in her class.

This is just one of the success stories that Lake Ozark Lions have quietly accomplished. Each year, the Club arranges to bring the Lion's hearing van to the School of the Osage where it tests the hearing of students, fourth through eighth grades, as well as those who are new to the school. Local residents are also tested free of charge. Lake Ozark Lions assist residents who have hearing problems -as they did Kaylin -regardless of their economic status.

While Lions perform community service in this and many other ways, they also enjoy the camaraderie of the public at their regular Tuesday night game sessions and at their dinners, where they are assisted greatly by the Lionesses. Additionally, Lake Ozark Lions also sponsor a Gun Show in June, which for many years has drawn collectors from around the country. These events fund the hearing and sight projects of the Lions.

So while President Dean Dion and the Lake Ozark Lions Club members fill many hours of community service, several also have undertaken special duties for the Club's District- 26-B- which includes Jefferson City and many other towns in this Central-State area. District Chairman currently are Jim Witt, Diabetes Awareness: John Ferrante Lions Club International Foundation/Sight First: and Carl Lake, Missouri Lions Eye Research Foundation.

Any person needing the Lions Club special services or who wishes to inquire about, may contact a Lion member, or call the Lake Ozark Lions Club, located on Lake Road 54-19, at 365-2657. The Club is at the community's service!