ABOUT US
Join Lions Clubs nationwide in supporting Canine Companions to help provide exceptional dogs for exceptional people.
Making a difference - one dog, one person, one club at a time.
Our Mission
The Lions Project for Canine Companions is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit foundation established in 1983 to support the mission of Canine Companions — a national nonprofit organization that provides expertly trained service dogs to individuals with disabilities, completely free of charge.
Through awareness, fundraising, and advocacy with Lions Clubs nationwide, the Lions Project Foundation helps ensure that more people experience the life-changing independence that comes from a quality service dog partnership.
A Legacy of Partnership
Lions Clubs have supported Canine Companions since their inception in 1975.
In 2023, we proudly celebrated 40 years of dedicated support through the Lions Project for Canine Companions Foundation.
Our reach spans 34 states from California to Maine.
Our vision: Lions Clubs in every U.S. state supporting this life-changing mission.
Our Team
Lions Project for Canine Companions is led by a passionate, all-volunteer team of Board of Directors, Area Directors, and Trustees.
These Lions dedicate their time and talents to expanding awareness and involvement in the Canine Companions mission.
2024-2025 Board of Directors
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Ken Ibarra (Past Int'l Director)
PRESIDENT
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Teresa J. Hart (PP)
FIRST VICE PRESIDENT
PUPPY RAISER
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Susan Marlatt
SECOND VICE PRESIDENT
PUPPY RAISER
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Thomas Martin
THIRD VICE PRESIDENT
GRADUATE TEAM
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Cris Gerard
TREASURER
PUPPY RAISER | THERAPY DOG TEAM
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Jeri Retzlaff
SECRETARY
PUPPY RAISER | BREEDER CARETAKER
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Sarah Haberthur
OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR
BREEDER CARETAKER
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Lucille Hynes
TREASURER EMERITUS
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Shea C. Megale (PP)
IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT
GRADUATE TEAM
Area Directors
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Cris Gerard (PP)
Arizona | 21-C
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PDG Carl Anderson
Arizona | 21-C
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Cindi Fitzgerald
California | C1, C5, A1
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PDG Don Allen (PP)
California | C1, C5, A1
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Mark Steffens (PP)
California | C1, C5, A1
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Ken Ibarra (PID)
California | C4, C6
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Jim Purton (PP)
Florida | I-35
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Teresa Hart (PP)
Kentucky | MD-43
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Scott Mace
Maine | MD-41
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Susan Marlatt
Nebraska | MD-38
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Sharlene Lewis (PP)
Nevada | District 46
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Tom Martin
Texas | MD-2
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John Beere
Virginia | L-24
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Jim Purton
Virginia | L-24
Explore our full Directory to locate a Lions Project Trustee in your area.
We Want to Hear From You!
Have questions or want to learn more about how you can get involved with the Lions Project for Canine Companions? Reach out to us—we’d love to connect! Whether you're interested in volunteering, becoming a Trustee, or just want more information, our team is here to help.
