Diabetes affects individuals and families in communities around the world, including our own. The Greater Butts County Lions Club proudly supports Lions Clubs International’s global diabetes mission: to reduce the prevalence of diabetes and improve the quality of life for people living with the disease.

For Lions, fighting diabetes begins with something we have always believed in—neighbors helping neighbors.

Through education, awareness, screenings, community partnerships and support for people living with diabetes, Lions are working to help build healthier communities.

One of the most important tools in the fight against type 2 diabetes is awareness.

Lions clubs can organize type 2 diabetes screening events that provide community members with diabetes education, risk awareness, screening services and referrals when appropriate. Lions are encouraged to work with healthcare professionals and community partners when conducting these programs.

A simple conversation about risk factors or a community screening may encourage someone to speak with their healthcare provider and take an important step toward better health.

Understanding your risk today can help you make healthier choices for tomorrow.

Lions and Leos around the world support diabetes programs in many different ways.

Service can include:

• Diabetes education and awareness
• Type 2 diabetes risk screenings
• Healthy lifestyle programs
• Community health events
• Diabetes peer-support programs
• Diabetes camps for children and young adults
• Partnerships with healthcare organizations
• Improving access to diabetes care

Lions Clubs International Foundation also provides grants that can help expand diabetes care, enhance existing diabetes centers and support larger diabetes service projects.

Diabetes does not affect adults alone.

Lions' Diabetes Camps program is designed to improve the quality of life for young people living with diabetes. These camps provide opportunities for children and young adults to have fun, build friendships and strengthen their knowledge and diabetes-management skills in a supportive environment.

Supporting young people with diabetes can also help families know they are not facing the challenge alone.

Managing diabetes is an ongoing journey.

That is why Lions' diabetes mission extends beyond identifying risk. Lions International also encourages diabetes peer-support groups, where people living with diabetes can exchange practical, social and emotional support with others in their community.

Sometimes the most valuable message a person can hear is:

A caring community can provide encouragement, information and motivation to help people continue making healthy choices.

Preventing or managing type 2 diabetes can involve everyday decisions about nutrition, physical activity, regular medical care and understanding personal risk factors.

The Greater Butts County Lions Club encourages members of our community to make their health a priority.

Talk with your healthcare provider about your individual diabetes risk and whether screening is appropriate for you.

Encourage your family members and friends to do the same.

And when you see a local diabetes education or screening opportunity, take advantage of it.

Diabetes and the Lions' historic commitment to protecting eyesight are also closely connected.

Diabetes can cause serious eye complications, including diabetic retinopathy, which results from damage to blood vessels in the retina. Lions-supported programs around the world have combined diabetes screening with efforts to detect and address diabetes-related eye disease.

For Lions, helping people protect their health and helping people protect their sight often go hand in hand.

Our club believes that strong communities are built when people look out for one another.

By supporting diabetes awareness, encouraging prevention, helping connect people with resources and partnering with others who share our commitment to healthier lives, the Greater Butts County Lions Club continues the worldwide Lions tradition of service.

You can help.

Attend a community health event.

Encourage someone you love to learn about their diabetes risk.

Volunteer with the Lions.

Help spread diabetes awareness.

Or become a member and serve alongside us.