Today thousands of Australia’s most dedicated and hard-working volunteers will be on deck to let you know more about what Lions Australia does. Many of Lions Australia’s 25,000 plus hardworking volunteers will be out in the community celebrating Lions Awareness Day this weekend.
Where there’s a need, there’s a Lion and after 75 years of helping others in Australia, Lions know their role as a service club is only becoming increasingly important.
Lions Awareness Day
Held today, Saturday March 4, Lions Awareness Day is particularly important this year as Australia continues to face some of the worst flooding in history.
Lions Australia’s CEO, Rob Oerlemans, said our country need volunteers now more than ever. ‘Lions Australia’s 25,000 plus hardworking volunteers often serve their communities silently behind the scenes. Lions Awareness Day is a wonderful opportunity to recognise the incredible difference our volunteers make and give people an opportunity to learn more about our organisation.’
‘When disaster strikes Lions volunteers are the first to offer support. It’s been a big couple of years for our members with many communities impacted by flooding.’
Volunteers going above and beyond
Mr Oerlemans said we know the road to recovery is a long one after a disaster. ‘Our volunteers are still going above and beyond to help communities rebuild after the devastating bushfires of 2019/2020 and we will see the same with flood-affected communities.’
Since the first club was formed in Lismore on September 29, 1947, Lions Australia has grown to be the largest service club organisation in Australia, with over 25,000 volunteers. Lions Australia has set a goal of 30,000 members by 2030 and 50,000 members by 2050.
Some Lions are on a mission to cure childhood cancer and diabetes, others are committed to assisting those impacted by drought and floods and many are simply working together to help people in need in their local community. One thing all Lions have in common is together they are making an incredible difference.
Say hello to a Lion
Mr Oerlemans said if you see any Lions out in your community in coming weeks, you are encouraged to say hello and get some information on what your local club is up to. ‘If you are interested in making a difference ask your local Lions how you can get involved. We know there are many people out there looking to make a difference in the community right now, and it’s a great time to join us.
‘Our goal is that the demographic makeup of our clubs matches the demography of the community in which they operate. We’re so proud to have a growing number of speciality clubs across Australia ranging from young Leo clubs, virtual clubs, ethnic clubs, special interest and autism clubs.
‘We have key focus areas and a number of fantastic Lions foundations. Whatever your interest and passion, Lions can help you make a difference.’
Lions volunteers pay annual membership fees to cover admin costs which means 100 per cent of funds donated to your local Lions Club goes directly towards the cause.
Over $50 million is donated to Lions Australia each year with all funds going directly to important causes and people in need. Over $5 million is invested in youth programs each year, over $20 million is invested in medical research, $5 million in drug awareness, $20 million in hearing services and over 3000 environmental projects are carried out by Lions Australia every year.
For more information on Lions and how to get involved visit www.lionsclubs.org.au
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