Paris Lions give back to Community

Worldwide, Lions is the largest service club with a membership of 1.4 million, serving in 48,000 clubs, established in over 200 countries

Their motto is simple: ‘We Serve.’ It’s a simple phrase that’s reflected in the many diverse programs and organizations they support. Many people are not aware that Lions Clubs have five Global causes they fundraise to support: Diabetes foundation, vision programs, combating hunger, protecting the environment and funding to support childhood cancer research. In addition to these, the Lions support many local youth activities and community initiatives.

The Paris Lions Cub was founded in 1931 and has been serving the community ever since. Over the years, the Club has participated in many local projects, the largest and most notable (namesake) one is the creation and ongoing refurbishment of Lions Park. This major project was undertaken nearly 100 years ago in 1931 and in more recent years expanded with the addition of the amphitheatre and new and improved baseball diamonds.

The Lions Club donated towards the Cowan Community Health Hub; they support minor sports organizations, the 4H club, Scouts, and provide annual scholarships at the Paris District High School.

They’ve made cheques out to Participation House, the Salvation Army, the Children’s Safety Village and Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides, just to name a few. Perhaps you’ve heard of the club’s signature event? The Maple Syrup Festival held downtown in March of each year!

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The Paris Lions Club has been a big part of this community for 93 years and will continue with its service for many more years. However, the club, like many other service organizations, struggles with declining membership, which in turn affects the impact they can have on the growing community. This past year the Club put a concerted effort to develop a "Friends of Lions" program to supplement the loss of capacity within the club. This program recognizes that there are many individuals who love to volunteer their time but don't necessarily want the commitment of being a full-time member of Lions.

Over the past year, they welcomed more than 30 individuals collectively contributing approximately 400 hours of time to help the Lions Club operate its signature food wagon at various community events. The contribution of these volunteers has really eased the burden on club members and has breathed new life into what the club is able to achieve.

On November 21, The Paris Lions Club formally acknowledged the tremendous support they have received from their new “Friends of Lions” They also made several community donations, thanks in part to the help of these volunteers, to various community groups pictured here

It’s the Lions Club’s objective to continue to increase awareness in the community of the real difference an individual can make in the community by simply volunteering only a few hours of time. - Submitted content