A Short History
By 1969 the “Dogwood Acres” section of Chester, New Jersey was home to many residents who were new to the area, attracted by the small-town and woodsy setting. Harry and Irene Brockman had relocated there from Scotch Plains where Harry had been a member of the Scotch Plains Lions Club, a service organization dedicated to helping others. His commitment to Lionism inspired him to talk to his neighbors about starting a club in his new hometown. By autumn a total of twenty two people formed the core of the proposed new club and on November 24, 1969 the International Association of Lions Clubs formally chartered the new “Lions Club of Chester.”
Harry and the members knew that the primary purpose of Lionism is service to the community, with particular emphasis on sight conservation and restoration. This meant developing activities and projects geared to the needs of the community, as well as to supporting programs of Lions International. Some of the earliest activities included helping those in need by providing funds for eyeglasses, medical procedures, home repairs, and financial crises. Funding such projects was, and still is, a major task.
By the early 1970s the Chester Lions Club’s major fund-raising activity became the Flea Market. The first location for the Flea Market was the parking area around the Chester Borough offices on Main Street. With the generous help of others, the Flea Market moved to what was then an open field on Route 206, straddling Chester Borough and Township. During its more than 15-year stay at that location the Flea Market became an institution, attended by thousands on any given Sunday.
With the success of the Flea Market, the Chester Lions were able to expand their charitable works. Funds were provided to the NJ Lions Eyemobile Foundation to enable free eye and hearing screenings. Equipment was purchased for the NJ Eye Research Foundation and for the Lions Eye Bank of New Jersey. Various institutions and camps for the blind received annual donations, as well as manpower to paint and repair facilities such as Camp Marcella for Blind Children.
Local citizens were helped with free eye, ear and blood screenings. Funds were provided to boy and girl scout troops, athletic programs, the food pantry, Chester Senior Housing and the library. Scholarships have been awarded to deserving seniors at Mendham and West Morris High Schools for many years. Support for equipment and vehicles was also provided to organizations such as the fire and police departments and first aid squads in the area. Organizations such as Welkind Rehabilitation Center, Matheny School, The Seeing Eye, and Morristown Memorial Hospital were provided with major donations. Financial support for victims of major catastrophes such earthquakes and hurricanes and for victims of 911 was sent direct and also through donations to Lions International. Donations have been given to organizations that support our troops returning from Iraq and Afghanistan.
The Chester Lions continue to support many of these worthy causes, as well as our local citizens in need. Our current major fund-raiser is the annual “Oktoberfest”. Today our membership has the same dedication as our founding members had in 1969. We are happy to invite our neighbors to join our organization, just as we did back then.
Join the Chester Lions Club: A Legacy of Community Service
Be a Part of Our Mission to Help Others and Make a Difference
Our Founding Story
The Chester Lions Club was founded in 1969 by Harry and Irene Brockman and 22 dedicated members. From the beginning, our mission has been clear: to serve the community with a special focus on sight conservation and restoration. Our early efforts provided essential support to those in need, setting a strong foundation for our future.
Community and Beyond
Over the years, our fundraising efforts, such as the Flea Market and Oktoberfest, have allowed us to support various causes. From free health screenings and scholarships to aiding local organizations and disaster victims, our contributions have had a significant impact locally and globally. We continue to uphold the Lions' commitment to service.
Become a Member
We invite you to join the Chester Lions Club and be part of our mission. Whether it's through organizing events, raising funds, or providing direct support to those in need, your involvement can make a difference. Together, we can continue to build a stronger, more supportive community. Reach out today to learn how you can become a member.
Meet Our Dedicated Members
Get to know the passionate individuals who drive the Chester Lions Club’s mission. Our members come from diverse backgrounds but share a common goal: to serve the community and make a positive impact. Their dedication and hard work are the heart of our organization. Discover the people behind our initiatives and learn about their commitment to Lionism and community service.
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