ABOUT US
Join Lions Clubs nationwide in supporting Canine Companions to help provide exceptional dogs for exceptional people.
Making a difference - one dog, one Lion, one Club at a time.
Our Mission
The Lions Project for Canine Companions is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation 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.
2026-2027 Board of Directors
-
Susan Marlatt
PRESIDENT
PUPPY RAISER
-
Kirk Noffsinger
FIRST VICE PRESIDENT
PUPPY RAISER
-
Cris Gerard (PP)
TREASURER
PUPPY RAISER | THERAPY DOG TEAM
-
Ashley Ballard
SECRETARY
PUPPY RAISER
-
Sarah Haberthur
NATIONAL
OFFICE ADMINISTRATORBREEDER CARETAKER
-
Lucille Hynes
TREASURER EMERITUS
-
Teresa J. Hart (PP)
IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT
PUPPY RAISER
Area Directors
-
Cris Gerard (PP)
Arizona | 21-C
-
Cindi Fitzgerald
California | C1, C5, A1
-
Mark Steffens (PP)
California | C1, C5, A1
-
Ken Ibarra (PP, PID)
California | C4, C6
-
Khush Bodhan
California | C3
-
Kirk Noffsinger
California | A1
-
John Peraza
California | L2
-
Teresa Hart (PP)
Kentucky | MD-43
-
Scott Mace
Maine | District 41
-
Susan Marlatt
Nebraska | MD-38
-
PDG Sharlene Lewis (PP)
Nevada | District 46
-
Ashley Ballard
Ohio | MD-13
-
Jim Purton
Virginia | 24-L
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.
Join the mission of Lions Project for Canine Companions through a meaningful Club Membership. Designed for Lions Clubs, this annual pledge is recommended based on the number of active members in your Club.
This commitment is more than a donation—it’s a statement of service, partnership, and ongoing impact. A pledge reminder will be sent each year to help maintain consistent support and recognition.
What Your Club Will Receive
Member Club Banner (pictured) – A symbol of your Club’s ongoing support, ideal for display at meetings and events. Every 5 years, your Club will receive a hanger displaying your ongoing commitment to our mission.
Official Membership Certificate – Recognition of your Club’s contribution to our mission
Annual Member Club Dues
Clubs with 0-20 Members: $150
Clubs with 21-40 Members: $200
Clubs with 41-60 Members: $250
Clubs with 61-80 Members: $300
Clubs with 81+ Members: $350
Member Club Dues can also be paid via check. Please make checks payable to Lions Project for Canine Companions and mail to P. O. Box 3896 Santa Rosa, CA 95402.