In the classrooms of a school in Shidapada village, something special is happening. For decades, the Shivaji Park Lions Club, District 3231-A1, has been quietly transforming lives in this remote community, located about 30 kilometers from Shahpur, Thane, Maharashtra.
Last year, a girl from this school topped district board exams with 97% marks. It’s no accident—she’s part of a school where Lions members have meticulously built a supportive learning environment. New bathrooms for boys, girls, and teachers promote hygiene. A digital classroom equipped with Smart TV and laptops connects students to the wider world. The playground buzzes with activity as children develop teamwork through sports, with many winning district-level medals.
“We provide uniforms, shoes, socks, stationery, and raincoats based on what students need each year,” explains Project Chairperson Samir Vakil. The club refurbished the main building’s roof, installed water harvesting systems, and created a 16,000-liter water storage facility with filtration.
Beyond the school, the club’s 45-year relationship with Shidapada village runs deep. Since adopting the village in 1981, they’ve addressed the most urgent needs of the residents—mobile medical vans, eye screening camps including cataract surgeries, and free medicines. The club constructed a temple for social and religious gatherings, complete with sound systems for community events.
Basic infrastructure improvements include provision of bore wells, street lights, and drinking water facilities. Fourteen young villagers received vocational driver training for employment opportunities.
While the club has invested Rs. 12 lakhs in just the past two years, their total contribution over the decades is estimated to exceed a crore of rupees. However, as PDG Ravindra Kadel notes during the February 2025 visit with District Governor Viraf K. Mistry and Club President Jugal Jaju, “The dedication, affection, and satisfaction of serving this community goes far beyond monetary value.”