In 2003, Pan Vannett of Mandan, North Dakota joined the International Association of Lions Club through a local Mandan Lions Club. Now she’s making history as her district’s first female candidate for International Director of the association.

Pat’s multiple district includes North and South Dakota and Saskatchewan. Pat will travel to Chicago for the election at the Lions Clubs International Convention. The association has 1.4 million members from over 200 countries. Only 34 members from around the world are selected for the board.

“Each local Lions Club is dedicated to serving our communities and the world through our humanitarian service,” says Pat.

One of the most well known services of the Lions Club is the collection of used eyeglasses, which started in 1925 when Helen Keller asked the organization to be knights for the blind.

“We collect and sort old eyeglasses, read the prescriptions and then redistribute them.”

Upon election, Pat will serve a two year term on the board, which includes serving on committees and visiting and speaking to Lions across North America. It is a volunteer position.

“It’s not always about how much money you can make in this world but more about what kind of a difference you can make. Since this position provides me with an opportunity to make a difference in the world, I am happy to do it.”