Melvin Reynolds, 44, of Cassopolis, is an active member of the Edwardsburg Lions Club, serving as the second vice president and as a supervisor for the Edwardsburg Leos Club. He is also an active member in his church, volunteers at the Cass County Council on Aging and serves as president of the Pilot Dogs Alumni Association. Most recently, Reynolds helped organize a Diabetes Awareness Day through the Edwardsburg Lions Club.

How did you get involved with the Edwardsburg Lions Club?

I had been involved with the Lions Club in Chicago before I moved to Cassopolis. I went around and did a bit of Lions shopping, went around to different clubs in the area. The Edwardsburg Club was the most active, which is why I chose to go with them.

Why is the Lions Club the organization for you?

As a totally blind person, the guide dogs I have gotten have been sponsored by the Lions Club. It’s because of the Lions Club that I was able to get the guide dogs. I just wanted to give back.

Why did you want to organize a Diabetes Awareness Day?

I’ve been diagnosed with Diabetes since I was 5 years old, and I struggle from all kinds of complications with Diabetes. If I can stop one person from going through what I’ve gone through as a diabetic, it was worth it. I wanted people to know about Diabetes and some of the warning signs.

Why do you like volunteering?

I’ve been a boy scout since I was 10 and a half years old. That instilled in me a desire to give back to the community and volunteer and do what I can to help others.

How would you encourage others to volunteer?

I think they would find a big sense of satisfaction from giving back and volunteering. If you are down, it lifts your spirits and makes you feel much better.