THROUGHOUT March, Lions service clubs across Australia are celebrating Lions Awareness Month with a variety of activities aimed at raising public awareness about their contributions to their communities.
As the largest service club organisation in the world, with 1.4 million members in 49,000 clubs across more than 200 countries, Lions Clubs are dedicated to their motto, “We Serve”.
The month-long celebration kicked off with sausage sizzles at Bunnings stores from the first week of March, as well as Clean Up Australia Day environmental activities over the weekend.
Additionally, many clubs are continuing to collect donations to support victims of the recent flooding events in North Queensland and the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
Lions Club District Governor Jorge Salles said Lions Clubs could help their communities however needed.
“We are currently preparing, across the district, to spring into action after the event when it is safe to do so, and we have an all-clear from authorities,” he said.
Mr Salles added that each individual club determined how to best support their community, as they were all different.
Funds raised will be directed to those in need through local Lions Clubs, with a focus on supporting local businesses in the recovery process.
Mr Salles gave an assurance that 100 per cent of money gathered would go to the associated activity.
“No money is retained for admin,” he said.
Later in March, Lions clubs will continue their awareness month activities nationwide, with some celebrating International Women’s Day, followed by National Leo’s Day on March 16 that highlights the efforts of Leo Clubs, which are youth programs sponsored by Lions Clubs.
Young people of all ages are involved either with the Alpha Leo program that serves youths aged 12-18, or the Omega Leo program catering to young adults aged 18-30.
Lions Clubs will also celebrate the International Day of Happiness on March 20 and Harmony Day on March 21.
Lions Awareness Month provides an opportunity for the public to learn and see for themselves the impactful work of Lions Clubs members, while encouraging new members to join in their mission of service.
Cleveland Lions Club president Graham Williams said Lions members were prepared to help wherever possible.
“We’ve offered to help people however we can, which so far has been helping old ladies do shopping and get food supplies,” he said.
Mr Williams, 85, shared that the club was ready to assist in the aftermath of Alfred, but had not received many calls, and wanted to remind the community that their help was just a phone call away.
“We are always looking to help,” he said.
