Lions Clubs International District 301-B2 kicks off its 1st District Convention, marking a significant gathering of Lions members from various clubs in the Visayas.
The participating Lions clubs come from Cebu, Bohol, Leyte, Samar, Ormoc, and Dumaguete, Lucy Chiong Sy, Lions Clubs District 301-B2 district governor, said in an interview.
The activities included a photo exhibit, a bowling tournament, the opening ceremony and plenary session, and Governor’s Ball, Dr. Chiong-Sy said.
The photo exhibit opened on September 1, 2024, at the Ayala Central Bloc in Cebu IT Park, Cebu City, and will run until September 6, 2024. On September 7, the photo exhibit will move NuStar, where the Governor's Ball will be held.
On September 6, 2024, the opening ceremony and plenary session at the Sacred Heart Center featured Cebu City Acting Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia as the guest speaker.
Acting Mayor Garcia recognized the efforts of Lions Clubs International in helping least those in need. "You have hearts that see. You have hearts that feel the pain of our least fortunate brothers and sisters. When others pay only lip service, you serve," Garcia said.
He thanked Lions Clubs Internation for showing the way in how to serve. “I have always said this: that we are not going to do it alone. We need the cooperation of every individual, including organizations such as yours, to be able to make a difference in our community, and touch the lives of our people.
On the morning of the same day, members of 16 Lions Clubs participated in a bowling tournament at SM City Cebu. This sporting event set the tone for the camaraderie and fellowship central to the Lions' community spirit.
The discussion during the plenary session included membership growth, club extension, leadership training goals, and progress reports of the projects.
Lions Clubs International is known for its dedication to service, and District 301-B2 is no exception.
Dr. Chiong-Sy said the Lions Clubs International has eight core goal values, including Vision, Diabetes, Environment, Youth, Hunger, and Disaster Relief. These projects reflect the Lions' commitment to addressing some of the most pressing issues in their communities.
Among the projects is the Sight for Kids program, which provides free eye examinations and eyeglasses to children in public schools, she added. Inspired by Helen Keller, who once called the Lions the "Knights of the Blind," the program aims to preserve vision, particularly among underprivileged youth. The Lions work closely with sponsors and medical experts to ensure that children with more serious eye conditions receive the necessary care.
The district is also actively involved in diabetes prevention, environmental conservation, and malnutrition eradication. These long-term programs are designed to create sustainable change, particularly in areas hardest hit by poverty and natural disasters. During calamities, Lions members frequently mobilize to deliver aid and resources to remote, disaster-stricken areas, showcasing their dedication to humanitarian service.
One of the key goals discussed during the convention is the growth of the Lions community. The organization aims to reach 1.5 million members globally by 2027. This ambitious target underscores the Lions’ belief in the power of collective action and the importance of expanding their reach to serve more communities worldwide.
According to Dr. Chiong-Sy, the Lions Clubs International District 301-B2 remains focused on its mission of service. Through their tireless efforts and dedication, Lions Clubs International continues to bring hope and support to those in need, embodying the true spirit of service.
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