In the spirit of holiday giving, the Haddonfield Area Lions Club recently hosted the annual Dr. Lawrence Ragone Holiday Shopping Event, a cherished tradition that brings together volunteers and visually impaired children for a unique and heartwarming shopping experience. The event, which has become a beacon of generosity, unfolded at the Target Store on Route 38 in Cherry Hill, New Jersey.
A Meaningful Tradition
Each December, the Haddonfield Lions, in collaboration with local Leo Clubs, orchestrate the Dr. Lawrence Ragone Holiday Shopping Event. This heartening initiative pairs volunteers with visually impaired children from the New Jersey Commission for the Blind, hailing from various corners of South Jersey. Together, they embark on a special shopping journey to select thoughtful holiday gifts for their family members, caregivers, teachers, and more.
Larry Melton, Lions Club President, shared the touching connections that blossom between the young shoppers and the Leo volunteers. “It is heartwarming to see the friendships that happen between the shoppers and the Leo volunteers. These children meet for the first time and instantly bonded,” he remarked.
Community Support in Action
The Leos, a group of dedicated youth from Haddonfield Memorial High School, play a pivotal role in ensuring the success of the event. Paired with visually impaired children, they provide assistance and companionship throughout the shopping experience. Melton expressed gratitude for the Lions members who staffed wrapping tables, ensuring the presents were beautifully prepared for the young shoppers to take home to their families.
Honoring a Legacy of Compassion
The event’s origins trace back over 40 years when Dr. Lawrence Ragone, an Optometric Physician and devoted Lion for 65 years, initiated this heartening tradition. Driven by compassion for children with visual impairments, Dr. Ragone’s legacy lives on through this annual event. Even after his passing, his family has pledged to ensure the continuity of this meaningful tradition. Lawrence A. Ragone, Jr., shared, “As a family, we are proud and honored to be able to continue this wonderful event in memory of our father and mother, Anna Marie.”
Mary Ann Ragone DeLambily added, “This fabulous event enables our parents’ legacy to continue in a way they would be very proud.” The Dr. Lawrence Ragone Holiday Shopping Event stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of community, compassion, and the power of coming together to make the holidays brighter for those who may face additional challenges.
