This year's Great Pottsville Cruise is being organized by the Pottsville Lions Charities Incorporated. The Cruise started in 1994 and has grown tremendously over its 7 year history. What was once done by several individuals became a daunting task as the number of participants and spectators broke the 20,000 mark. Those few originators thought it best to join forces with a large service club and who better than the Pottsville Lions Charities.

The Pottsville Lions Charities Incorporated is now in its 78th year of service to the community of Pottsville and to Schuylkill County. The Lions motto is simply "We Serve" and this busy club lives up to this creed.

The Pottsville Lions Charities contributes generously to the Pottsville EMS and built the new ambulance center a few years ago. They support the Pottsville Library and Historical Society, sponsor several local sports teams for the youth of Pottsville, the annual Halloween Parade and present awards to outstanding athletes in the Pottsville and present awards to outstanding athletes in the Pottsville and Nativity schools.

The Lions are well known for the great work done in the field of vision - from collecting and recycling used eye glasses, to supporting international vision saving programs and helping fund the training of seeing eye dogs. This club has also been known to provide eye care for local individuals who may be in need financial support.

The Lions of Pottsville are excited about being able to present other non-profit organizations and clubs with the opportunity to raise some money through the sale of chances on the Cruise Car. Last year well over $100,000 was raised by over 130 groups.

In the Lion's emblem there are two Lion profiles facing away from the center. The Lions face both past and future - showing both pride of heritage and confidence in the future. The Pottsville Lions certainly demonstrates active participation in this mission.

If you would be interested in hearing more about the Pottsville Lions Charities please write to us at Box 322 North Ninth Street, Pottsville, PA 17901.