Clubs help make the community brighter

Providing bulletproof vests to police dogs, free eyesight screenings and foreign-exchange programs to Valley residents is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the role community clubs play.

In the Valley, organizations like the Lions, the Elks, the Moose and Rotary are some of the most active organizations in the state. When it comes to giving, Valley residents are always there for each other, and that mentality is reflected by the success of these community organizations. These organizations provide a wide range of services to those in need, as well as organize community events from which everyone benefits.

Recently, the Palmer Lions Club -- about 70 members strong -- was recognized as the fastest-growing club in Alaska. It earned the distinction of Alaska Lions Club of the Year for the club's many efforts. One recent project helped renovate a van with a wheelchair lift for use by the Palmer Senior Center, to help with senior citizens' transportation needs.

There are a number of Lions Clubs in the Valley, and many are very active. A new Lions Club is in the organizational stage as well. The Point MacKenzie/Knik Lions Club held an organizational meeting in October to get a club up and running in that area.

Another sign of growth was the formation of two new clubs in 2001. The first was the Wasilla Sunrise Rotary club, which started as an extension of the Wasilla noon group and the Palmer Rotary Club.

At the same time, the first Mat-Su Valley Rotaract Club was formed. A program of Rotary International, Rotaract emphasizes leadership and community service projects for people ages 18-30. Founded in 1968, the national organization has grown to more than 145,000 members, in 170 countries. Rotaract members are required to complete a minimum of one community-service project a year, and one international community-service project.

Community service organizations aren't the only option for people looking to help and make a difference in the community. Groups such as the Backcountry Avalanche Awareness and Response Team and the Mat-Su Motor Mushers are often instrumental in helping find missing snowmachiners and skiers; parent-teacher associations are strong in Valley schools; the Alaska State Fair association puts on events all year; and there are clubs for just about every hobby and special interest, such as gardening, beekeeping and ham radio operators.

Whether it be for the community service or to simply share interests with other Valley residents, the club scene is alive and well in the Mat-Su Valley.