Honoring a Visionary: The Ray Hempel Fellowship

Lions and Lioness truly have the power to change the world, and Lion Ray Hempel was one such individual who did just that. Through his remarkable vision and determination, he changed the lives of thousands of children with special needs, and his legacy continues to inspire Lions and Lionesses today.

The Story of Lion Ray Hempel

In 1952, Lion Ray Hempel visited two blind 12-year-old boys in the hospital and asked them if they had ever attended a camp. Their response, “Blind kids can’t go to outdoor camp and stuff like that,” stuck with him. Lion Ray Hempel took those words to heart and envisioned a place where blind children—and later all children with special needs—could experience the joys of outdoor camping.

A passionate camper, Boy Scout leader, and Lion, Lion Ray didn’t waste any time turning his vision into reality. At the 1955 State Lions Convention, with the support of his fellow Lions from the Poy Sippi Lions Club, Ray petitioned for a permanent camp location. Their search led them to a beautiful property in Central Wisconsin near Rosholt. In 1956, the land was officially purchased, and Lions Camp was born.

Lion Ray Hempel became the first Lions Camp Director, dedicated to the growth and development of the camp. In 1959, during the Camp Gateway Dedication, Lions International President, Clarence L. Sturm, honored Ray as the originator of Wisconsin Lions Camp. Today, Lions Camp has positively impacted the lives of tens of thousands of children and adults with special needs.

The Ray Hempel Fellowship: A Tribute to Service and Dedication

In honor of Lion Ray Hempel’s unwavering commitment to children with special needs and his visionary leadership in creating Lions Camp, Lions Pride is proud to introduce the Ray Hempel Fellowship. This fellowship is designed to recognize and celebrate the unique accomplishments, extraordinary dedication, and service of a Lion, Lioness, spouse, or treasured friend who exemplifies the spirit of service that Ray Hempel instilled in others.

About the Ray Hempel Fellowship

A contribution of $1,000 to the Lions Pride Endowment Fund will bestow the honor of becoming a Ray Hempel Fellow. Your contribution will be deposited into the Lions Pride Endowment Fund, where the interest earnings will help support Lions Camp and other statewide projects of the Wisconsin Lions Foundation (WLF)—now and in the future. The endowment fund follows the guiding principle of “Today’s Help, Tomorrow’s Hope”, providing annual contributions to the WLF while protecting the principal to ensure the legacy of Lion Ray Hempel’s vision continues for generations.

What the Fellowship Includes

• Ray Hempel Fellow lapel pin – A symbol of the honoree’s outstanding contributions and dedication.
• Personalized recognition plaque – Commemorating the recipient’s service and achievements.

How to Honor a Deserving Individual

If you know someone who embodies the dedication and vision of Lion Ray Hempel, consider nominating them for this prestigious fellowship. The Ray Hempel Fellowship is a fitting tribute to someone who has demonstrated exceptional service and support to others, just as Lion Ray Hempel did for so many.

To nominate someone, please use the link above to fill out the form or feel free to contact the Lions Pride Office to learn more about the fellowship program and the incredible legacy of Lion Ray Hempel.

The Lasting Legacy of Lion Ray Hempel

The Ray Hempel Fellowship is more than just an award—it’s a celebration of the spirit of service and the transformative impact that Lion Ray Hempel’s vision has had on the lives of thousands of children with special needs. By contributing to the Lions Pride Endowment Fund, you are helping to ensure that Ray’s legacy, and the work of Lions Camp, will continue to thrive for many years to come.

Join us in honoring Lion Ray Hempel and ensuring that his vision of a better world for children with special needs lives on!