Members of The Dalles Lions Club present a $30,000 check to the city on July 27 for a new splash pad, on part of the larger federal Street Plaza Project. From left to right are Lions Tim McGlothlin and Kris Harmon, Roger Kline of North Wasco PUD, Lions Carolyn Layson and Mike Kilkenny, The Dalles Mayor Rich Mays, and Lions Nancy Cain and Helen Elsmore.
Members of The Dalles Lions Club present a $30,000 check to the city on July 27 for a new splash pad, on part of the larger federal Street Plaza Project. From left to right are Lions Tim McGlothlin and Kris Harmon, Roger Kline of North Wasco PUD, Lions Carolyn Layson and Mike Kilkenny, The Dalles Mayor Rich Mays, and Lions Nancy Cain and Helen Elsmore.
THE DALLES — Continuing a century-long tradition of investing in projects that strengthen community life, The Dalles Lions Club Charitable Trust recently presented a $30,000 contribution toward the Federal Street Plaza splash pad project.
The donation includes funds made possible through generous contributions to The Dalles Lions Club Charitable Trust for community improvement projects, along with a $10,000 grant from Northern Wasco County PUD. The funds are designated to help support the plaza's family-focused water feature, which will serve as a centerpiece of the new downtown gathering space.
For the Lions Club, the contribution represents more than support for a single project, it reflects the organization's enduring commitment to creating places where families, neighbors, and visitors can gather, connect, and enjoy their community.
"For nearly 100 years, The Dalles Lions Club has invested in projects that improve quality of life and leave a lasting impact," said Jim Wilcox, representing the Lions Club Charitable Trust. "Many of the community amenities we enjoy today were once debated and questioned. Yet generations later, they remain valued assets that bring people together."
Throughout its history, the Lions Club has contributed funding, volunteer labor, and leadership to numerous community projects, including improvements at local parks, construction of the picnic shelter at Sorosis Park, support for library improvements, the splash pad at The Dalles Community Pool, recreational facilities, youth programs, vision initiatives, and countless other community investments.
Lions leaders recognize that the Federal Street Plaza project has generated passionate discussion within the community. While opinions may differ on specific features or costs, the organization believes vibrant public spaces play an important role in fostering community pride, encouraging economic activity, and creating opportunities for families to gather safely and enjoy downtown.
"When Lions look at a project, we ask what it will mean for our community not just today, but 20, 50, or even 100 years from now," adds Lion Club President Carolyn Layson. "We believe great communities are built through thoughtful investments in shared spaces. Future generations deserve places where children can play, families can gather, and residents can enjoy spending time together."
The Federal Street Plaza project has been identified by the City of The Dalles as a priority downtown revitalization effort. Plans include a splash pad, shaded gathering areas, seating, landscaping, and bicycle amenities designed to create a welcoming destination for residents and visitors alike.
As The Dalles Lions Club approaches its 100th anniversary in November 2026, the organization remains committed to its mission of serving the community and supporting projects that enhance the quality of life for future generations.
"Our club has never been afraid to invest in the future," Jim Wilcox added. "A century from now, we hope residents will look at this project the same way we look at the investments made by Lions who came before us, with gratitude for their vision, generosity, and belief in our community."
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Founded in 1926, The Dalles Lions Club has served the community for nearly 100 years through vision programs, youth services, community improvement projects, disaster relief efforts, scholarships, and charitable giving. The club remains dedicated to serving the needs of The Dalles and the surrounding region while building a stronger community for future generations.
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