Photo Caption Lions Club members preparing for last year’s Turkey Dinner.

xThe Lions Club will host its annual turkey dinner fundraiser on Thursday, Jan. 22, from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Church, continuing a community tradition that has been held for more than 25 years.

The dinner is the Lions Club’s largest fundraiser of the year, serving 550 meals, with all proceeds going back into the community. Meals are takeout only, though walk-ins are welcome. Tickets are not required in advance, but organizers encourage early arrival, as meals are limited.

“This is truly the biggest fundraiser that the Lions Club does each year,” said Jim Embrey, treasurer of the Lions Club. “We raise the money, and then we give it away.”

Funds raised are donated to a variety of local organizations and individuals in need, including Toys for Tots, Warren Sports Boosters, Warren Four Flags Committee, Warren Youth Connection, Boy Scout Troop 9, A Safe Place, Family Services of Warren County, Warren-Forest EOC, Allegheny Community Center and Warren County Child Advocacy Center.

While recipient groups can change from year to year, the Lions Club typically fulfills between 10 and 15 requests annually, sometimes more, depending on community need.

Each meal includes turkey, homemade stuffing, mashed potatoes with gravy on the side, cranberry sauce, a roll with butter and cookies, for $15. The price has remained the same for the past several years.

“It’s a pretty generous helping,” Embrey said. “It’s a filling meal.”

Most of the food is prepared by Lions Club members themselves. Turkeys are cooked the morning of the event, while mashed potatoes and stuffing are made on site.

The Lions Club plays an important role in the community by providing vision and hearing assistance to residents in Warren County and surrounding areas. Individuals can submit requests for help with items such as eyeglasses, which are reviewed and fulfilled through the Lions Foundation.

“This dinner is another way we’re able to give back,” said Mike Holtz, the club’s secretary.

The Lions Club is also seeking new members. Anyone interested can speak with a Lions Club member before, during or after the dinner to learn more and receive an application.

“It’s a really fun and encouraging time for our members,” Embrey said. “And it’s a good way for us to support the community that supports us.”