Photo Karen Graham. Lions Hugh Hoard, Dan Fair and Albert Munneke serve up some smiles.
Do you want to improve your social life? Make new friends? Feel better about yourself, all the while helping out in your community, making a difference? It is easier than you might think.
For 100 years, millions of citizens have done just that, by becoming members of Lion’s Club International. Since 1917, all around the world, average people have pooled their talents, shared their abilities and improved the lives of people around the globe and in their own home towns. They are helping children to see better through vision and hearing screenings, helping build medical centres, needed medical equipment for local hospitals, supporting guide dogs and many other local endeavours. You may think this sounds like a lot of work, but Lions say they are having too much fun to notice.
I joined Lions four years ago. My neighbour Ray invited me to a meeting, which is catered by a rotation of local churches, groups, etc. I said of course, after all, what is better than a church supper? When someone asks me why I joined Lions, I joke and tell them Lion Ray tricked me: he said we were going bowling and then he took me to a Lions’ meeting. Truth is, Ray has been a great neighbour for 30 years and I would have accompanied him for that reason alone.
Arriving at the Lions’ Den, I was warmly welcomed by all members. A cold adult beverage was thrust in my hand and I soon discovered a happy band of men and women just like my friend Ray. Open and friendly, polite and hard-working, people I try to emulate, people I am proud to be associated with. Joining the Millbrook Lions was a no-brainer. I’ve enjoyed every minute.
If you are unsure how to do something, no worries, help is always right beside you. Not sure you will fit it? Don’t worry; Lions are a diverse group of people united in their willingness to help their communities through a well-planned and supportive world-wide volunteer organization. Wonder if you will have the time? This is the beauty of being a Lion. Each member decides his or her own level of commitment. It is easy to contribute in the supportive framework of Lions’ Club International. Curious if you will like the work we do, such as eye screening, working the food trailer, or at our famous Sunday morning breakfasts? I guarantee you will find out Lions love their communities as much as they love having fun. Soon you will be looking forward to the next event! And remember, Lions participate in the projects they like. We volunteer as we can and as we like to tell each other, no Lion has ever been fired (not even Hugh!)
Not sure you have anything to offer if you join Lions? Nothing could be further from the truth. I initially thought I had nothing to offer the club and would just be in the way. Not a chance, I fit right in. If you have willing hands and a few hours every now and then, you can be part of a great positive force in your community… and one that you will be proud to be a part of. There is an old saying, “If you’re feeling down, pick someone up. Your spirits will rise with theirs.” It is so true.
For more information, phone David Goode (membership chair) 705-932-5220 or ask any Lion. Meetings are 1st and 3rd Mondays of every month at 6:30 pm, Sept through June. (P.S. That crack about Hugh .. all joking aside, he is one of the best Lions I’ve ever met and his friends lined up would stretch from the Lions’ Den, all the way to Frankford, where is his presently hiding.)
By Lion, Tony Parks
