Our Best Year Yet: SOLA Lions 2025–2026 Year in Review
What a year it has been for the SOLA Lions Club.
From the playing fields of Whittier to the pool decks of Minneapolis, from a brand-new bocce ball court to a Champions Lions Club mentorship launched in Kenya — the 2025–2026 Lions year was defined by purpose, partnership, and the kind of service that leaves a mark.
In our latest newsletter, we're sharing the full story: the events we hosted, the athletes we celebrated, the members we welcomed, and the milestones that made this year one we won't forget.
Here's a glimpse of what's inside:
700 athletes cheered and supported across four hosted Special Olympics events and one amazing holiday party
1 new professional bocce ball court and a ribbon-cutting ceremony
$35,000 raised for athlete uniforms, equipment, and celebrations — including our most successful Charity Golf Tournament yet, covered for the fourth consecutive year by KTLA
5,868 volunteer hours contributed by our dedicated members
A $5,000 contribution to the YMCA in partnership with Whittier Host Lions Club and LCIF
7 new members welcomed into our pride
An international mentorship that helped launch the start of the first Champions Lions Club in Kenya
We also have exciting news to share about Lion Crystal Dawes attending the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minneapolis. Plus, Lion Drew Sones was honored as the City of Whittier's Volunteer of the Year.
Finally, July 23 we will welcome incoming President Lion Crystal Dawes and celebrate the year behind us.
