BELLEVIEW, FL (352today.com) — Robert Vass, Events & Promotions Manager for the City of Belleview, has been recognized with two top honors from the Orange Blossom Gardens Lions Club of Lady Lake. At the club’s annual Officer Installation Luncheon on June 11, Vass was named the 2025 Lion of the Year and received the prestigious Helen Keller Award.

The event was held at North Lake Presbyterian Church in Lady Lake and honored Vass for his leadership, service, and advocacy for vision-related programs.

Vass was celebrated for his efforts in organizing a Vision Awareness Luncheon in partnership with Beauty of Sight and leading the club’s 100 for 100 Campaign, which raised more than $3,000 to support vision screenings for children and families in need.

“I am incredibly honored and deeply humbled to be named both Lion of the Year and recipient of the Helen Keller Award,” Vass said. “Being part of the Orange Blossom Gardens Lions Club has given me a greater sense of purpose and connection to the Lady Lake community where I live.”

Lions Clubs International, established in 1917, is the world’s largest service organization, with a long-standing focus on vision care and community service. The Orange Blossom Gardens chapter, founded in 1987, supports various local causes in Lake and Marion counties through fundraising efforts like Friday Night Bingo and the Bob Johnson Legacy Driving Range.

Belleview City Administrator Mariah Moody praised Vass’s service. “Robert’s dedication to community impact shines through everything he does—whether he’s organizing Belleview’s events or giving his time to serve through the Lions,” she said.

Club President Barbara Crewell echoed those sentiments. “Robert brings energy, creativity, and heart to every project he takes on,” she said. “His passion for helping others, particularly in the area of vision care, has inspired us all.”

The City of Belleview congratulated Vass on the honors and thanked him for his continued commitment to making a difference.

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