BEDFORD — Local Lions Clubs marked a milestone year in community service, constructing a record 25 wheelchair ramps across Lawrence County in 2024, bringing their total to 338 ramps since the program’s inception in 1989.
The collaborative effort, involving the Bedford Lions Club, Fayetteville Community Lions Club, Mitchell Lions Club, and Bedford Noon Lions Club, resulted in 723 feet of new ramps ranging from 11 to 60 feet in length. Volunteers contributed 1,032 hours to complete the projects, which included additional handrail and step installations at five homes.
“Ramp building is a great example of living the Lions Club motto ‘WE SERVE,'” said Charlie Drake, the new project chairman. “We all really enjoy the camaraderie of working together for someone in need. That person’s smile makes all the hard work worth it and gives us the incentive to help the next person.”
their new playground ramp.
The construction teams, typically consisting of six to ten members, are primarily senior citizens helping fellow seniors. Despite having no professional carpenters among their ranks, the volunteers have developed expertise in ramp construction over the years.
Kevin Stailey (FCL), Charles Drake (BL), Don Allen (BL).
The Lions Club donates all labor costs and can assist with material expenses through their ramp-building fund for those unable to afford them. Each ramp is designed to improve accessibility and independence for disabled community members, with projects tailored to individual needs.
Beyond the ramps, the clubs installed handrails and steps at several additional residences, further expanding their impact on community accessibility. This record-breaking year demonstrates the continued growth of a program that has served Lawrence County residents for over three decades.
