Members of the Lions Club of Frome will be celebrating the club’s 50th Anniversary this weekend with a special dinner at the Assembly Rooms.
The Lions Club is the world’s largest international service organisation which was founded in 1917. It has clubs in 207 countries and 1.4 million members who enjoy helping others less fortunate.
There are 850 clubs in Britain where Lionism has been serving communities for some 70 years. A Lions Club has no full time organisers and all work is done in the members’ spare time with the support of their partners and families.
Lions member Mark Symes said, “Lions work includes assisting communities and families in distress, organising social outings for lonely people, providing special equipment and teaching aids for physically and mentally handicapped children and adults, sponsorship of Medic Alert, supporting other charity groups and organisations, helping in education and sponsoring drug awareness schemes. These projects are not restricted to the area of the local club; help is on hand nationally when events dictate, such as the floods of two years ago in Somerset.
“As members of a truly international organisation, Lions horizons are much broader than the boundaries of their own country – they are in partnership with Lions throughout the world. Projects such as the provision of water wells and eye camps in third world countries have helped hundreds of thousands to live healthier and more fulfilling lives.
“A proud boast of Lions Clubs International is that all the profits from fund raising events are spent where needed, with members paying a subscription to cover organisational operating costs.
“Lions are people who care about others regardless of race, religion, politics or their own personal interests. The organisation’s motto is, ‘We Serve’. The Lions ask for no reward but get great satisfaction from the knowledge they have provided help and happiness when this has been needed.
“Lionism is looked upon as a constructive form of relaxation. Working together on fundraising and community welfare projects can be tremendous fun.”
The club meets twice monthly at Frome Rugby Club, Gypsy Lane. There is a continual search for local residents prepared to give a little time and effort to help those less fortunate than themselves. Further details may be obtained from Lion Mark Symes on 01373-467844 or by email at mark.symes@fromlions.org.uk or go to www.fromelions.org.uk
