Lions Clubs of Multiple District 36, Oregon and Northern California

We Serve

Lions of Oregon & Northern California are a part of an international network of 1.4 million men and women in 200 countries and geographic areas who work together to answer the needs that challenge communities around the world. Lions are best known for working to end preventable blindness, the giving of eyeglasses and hearing aids for the needy and local service projects.

 

Mission Statement of Lions Clubs International:

 

"To create and foster a spirit of understanding among all people for humanitarian needs by providing voluntary services through community involvement and international cooperation."

 

Let’s Remember To Serve From The Heart

Fellow Lions of 36-R,

     It's hard to believe we are into our third month of this Lion’s year.  I'm excited as I start to make my club visits, eagerly anticipating the activities and impactful service unfolding around our District, within our clubs and in our communities.

     In 1925, Helen Keller addressed the Lions with timeless wisdom, reminding them that “THE BEST THING YOU CAN DO FOR YOURSELF IS DO SOMETHING FOR SOMEONE ELSE.”  The profound truth in this statement resonates deeply with the essence of our Lions’ mission.  Our commitment to service is not just a duty, but a calling.  When we extend our effort to serve others and contribute to our communities, the impact is not solely external – it transforms us from within.  Serving others as Lions uplifts us, instilling a sense of pride and heightening our sense of purpose.

     Our shared motivation for joining Lions was rooted in the desire to serve, giving rise to our motto: “WE SERVE.”  Our service journey, encompasses four fundamental phases:  LEARN, DISCOVER, ACT and CELEBRATE.  These four words are simple yet powerful because they are words of Lions service.

·       LEARN -- We learn of our communities needs as well as the world around us.

·       DISCOVER – This phase sharpens our focus and readies us for action, offering direction to those eager to contribute but uncertain about where to begin.

·       ACT – We take purposeful steps in response to identified needs.

·       CELEBRATE – This phase acknowledges the successful outcomes of our service, marking moments of achievement and fulfillment.

     Our mission is one of service, a commitment that remains tangible and measurable.  As Lions, we’re uniquely positioned to recognize the needs of others and take decisive actions that support both our communities and the world.  With love and compassion as our driving force, we generously offer our time and energy, embodying the spirit that distinguishes each one of us as Lions.  Our service is unselfish because when you serve from your heart you expect nothing in return.

     Our new International President Dr. Patty Hill’s theme this Lions year is “CHANGING THE WORLD.”  My theme this year is “SERVICE FROM THE HEART.”  We both are convinced that Lions have the power to change lives and foster transformation within our communities.  So, my fellow Lions, let’s remember to serve from the heart.  For I firmly believe when we serve from the heart we not only make a difference in our communities, WE ARE CHANGING THE WORLD.

DG Lion Lynn Coon 36-R

Will you not help me hasten the day when there shall be no preventable blindness; no little deaf, blind child untaught; no blind man or woman unaided? I appeal to you Lions, you who have your sight, your hearing, you who are strong and brave and kind. Will you not constitute yourselves Knights of the Blind in this crusade against darkness?
— Helen Keller's Speech at 1925 International Convention Cedar Point, Ohio, USA June 30, 1925