In September 2025, Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) was honored with the António Champalimaud Vision Award, one of the world’s foremost recognitions in the fight against blindness and vision loss. LCIF shares the 2025 distinction with the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness and The Fred Hollows Foundation. Presented annually by the Champalimaud Foundation, the award celebrates outstanding contributions to global eye health, with a particular focus on underserved populations in developing regions. As part of the recognition, LCIF shares a monetary award of 1 million euros with fellow recipients. This honor is the largest award in the field and LCIF will use the funds to expand work in vision worldwide.
Honoring a Global Legacy
LCIF's recognition underscores decades of impact made through its SightFirst program, which, for more than 30 years, empowered Lions, healthcare providers and community partners to combat the major causes of preventable blindness. Through SightFirst, millions worldwide gained access to essential eye care, transforming lives and communities.
This award celebrates decades of dedication by our Lions, partners and the communities we serve.
Since its launch in 1990, SightFirst has impacted the lives of more than 544 million people worldwide. With LCIF funding, Lions, alongside local health authorities, eye care professionals and partner organizations, expanded access to vital eye health services in underserved communities, overcoming barriers to access and delivering high-quality, equitable care. Projects also created sustainable systems by improving infrastructure and training local personnel, offering advanced education and rehabilitation for individuals with vision impairments and raising awareness of the importance of eye health.
LCIF Chairperson Fabrício Oliveira accepted the award in Lisbon, Portugal, on behalf of the foundation. “LCIF is deeply honored to be named a recipient of this award, one of the most prestigious recognitions in global eye health,” Oliveira said. “This award celebrates decades of dedication by our Lions, partners and the communities we serve, and honors the countless volunteer hours, impactful collaborations and millions of people whose sight has been restored or saved.”
A Call for Future Action for Vision-Related Service
Oliveira emphasized that LCIF, together with Lions and Leos around the world, remains committed to carrying the legacy of SightFirst forward through its Vision Grant program. “While this award is a tremendous honor, we see it as a call to action to expand our reach, innovate further and ensure that every person, everywhere, has access to quality eye care,” he said.
Learn more about our work or how you can get involved at lionsclubs.org/vision.
Andrea Small is senior marketing and public relations specialist for Lions Clubs International Foundation.
