Lions Clubs International logo featuring two yellow lion heads facing opposite directions on a blue background, with a large yellow letter 'L' in the center, and the words 'Lions' at the top and 'International' at the bottom.

Who we are

The Minneapolis Downtown Next Generation Lions Club is a group of passionate volunteers dedicated to making a positive impact in our city. Whether we’re hosting community events, supporting local nonprofits, or collecting essential supplies for families in need, our goal is to serve—together. We’re proud to be part of Lions Clubs International, the largest service organization in the world, with over 1.4 million members in more than 200 countries and geographic areas.

Part of a Global Movement

You might know Lions for collecting used eyeglasses, hosting pancake breakfasts, or serving meals to those in need—and you’d be right. But that’s just the beginning. As Lions, we live by the global motto “We Serve.” Our international network tackles some of the world’s biggest challenges, including vision health, hunger, childhood cancer, diabetes, the environment, and disaster relief. When you join our local club, you're joining a global movement rooted in compassion, connection, and action.

Four women and two children standing on a truck bed with bags of supplies in front, outside a building with a sign that reads "My Very Own Bed: Providing new beds to kids."
Four women in a bike shop or workshop, smiling and posing together. One woman is holding a mountain bike wheel, with work tables and tools around them.

What We Do Locally

In Minneapolis, we focus on serving the unique needs of our community. We work with organizations like My Very Own Bed, People Serving People, and the Masonic Children’s Hospital to make a tangible difference. From packing food and hygiene kits to raising funds for families in crisis, we take action where it’s needed most.

Who Can Join

We welcome anyone who’s passionate about giving back. Our members are young professionals, students, parents, and community leaders—all united by the desire to serve. No special experience is required—just a willingness to make a difference.

When We Meet

We meet on the third Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at Klassics Kitchen in downtown Minneapolis. Can’t attend in person? No problem—we offer a hybrid option via Zoom so everyone can stay involved.

Community Recycling Programs

  • Donate Your Eyeglasses at Any of the Following Locations:

    • Eye Care Associates
      Medical Arts Building
      825 Nicollet Mall, 20th Floor
      Minneapolis, MN 55402

    • Eyebobs Eyewear
      1404 Glenwood Ave.
      Minneapolis, MN 55405

    • Minnesota Veterans Home
      5150 Minnehaha Avenue
      Minneapolis, MN 55417
      Collection box available at the front desk.

    • Courage Kenny
      3915 Golden Valley Rd.
      Golden Valley, MN 55422

    • Moss Optical LaSalle Plaza
      800 LaSalle Ave Suite 204
      Minneapolis, MN 55402

    • Mount Olivet Home & Careview Home
      5517 Lyndale Avenue South
      Minneapolis, MN 55419-1719
      Collection box located in the first-floor office.

    • Aurora On France
      6500 France Ave South
      Edina, MN 55435

    Have a location in mind that would be perfect for a donation box? Let us know through our Contact Us page—we’d be happy to help you get one set up!

    All donated glasses are recycled and provided to people in need through Lions Clubs around the world. Your donation can help give the gift of sight.

  • We are currently collecting hearing aids at:

    Minnesota Hearing Aid Professionals, Inc.
    2211 Park Avenue South
    Minneapolis, MN 55404

    All donated hearing aids will be refurbished and provided to individuals in need. Your donation can help someone regain the gift of hearing—thank you for making a difference!