| WE SERVE |
The Matamata Lions Club was chartered in December 1958 - the 8th Club in New Zealand.
Our sponsoring Club was Tauranga which was chartered in1957, we in turn sponsored Morrinsville Club in 1959, Putaruru 1961 and Te Aroha in 1962.
Early Club Meetings were held at the Matamata Hotel, Arawa St North. Dinner was a 5:00pm and the members were required to leave by 6:00pm because that was the licencing laws at the time. After dinner, members adjouirned to the nearby Matamata Club, and that was the beginning of a very enjoyable 65 + years of association - where we still meet to this day.
Check out our facebook page at
https://www.facebook.com/MatamataLionsClub
Lions Clubs International Explained - Who are We!
Lions Clubs International (LCI) is renowned as the world's largest service organization, devoted to improving communities worldwide. With a rich history and a vast network of volunteers, LCI has become a beacon of hope and positive change across the globe.
History and Mission
Founded in 1917 by Melvin Jones, Lions Clubs International began with a simple mission: to empower volunteers to serve their communities, meet humanitarian needs, and encourage peace and international understanding. Over the years, this mission has expanded, and today, LCI operates in over 200 countries with more than 48,000 clubs and 1.4 million members.
Key Areas of Focus
Lions Clubs International focuses on several key areas to address global and local challenges:
- Vision: LCI is committed to preventing avoidable blindness and improving quality of life for people who are blind or visually impaired. Through initiatives like vision screenings and eyeglass recycling, LCI helps millions worldwide.
- Hunger Relief: Understanding the critical need to combat hunger, LCI supports food banks, community gardens, and meal programs to ensure no one goes hungry.
- Environment: LCI promotes environmental awareness and sustainability. Projects include tree planting, clean-up drives, and education on protecting our planet.
- Diabetes Awareness: With diabetes affecting millions globally, LCI provides education, resources, and support for those battling this disease.
- Childhood Cancer: LCI offers support to children and families affected by cancer, funding research and improving access to treatment.
Global and Local Impact
Lions Clubs International operates on both global and local levels, addressing issues that range from global crises to community-specific needs. Their vast network of volunteers allows them to respond quickly to natural disasters, providing relief and support to affected communities.
Locally, Lions clubs tailor their projects to meet the specific needs of their communities. Whether it’s organizing a community health fair, building a new park, or supporting local schools, Lions clubs make a significant impact where it matters most.
Membership and Involvement
Becoming a Lion is a rewarding experience that offers opportunities for personal growth, leadership development, and community involvement. Members, known as Lions, are encouraged to bring their ideas and passion to their clubs, helping to drive change and make a difference.
Lions Clubs International also offers programs for young people, such as the Leo Clubs, which engage youth in community service and leadership activities.
Conclusion
Lions Clubs International stands as a testament to the power of collective action and volunteerism. Through their unwavering dedication to service, LCI continues to transform lives and communities around the world. By focusing on vision, hunger, the environment, diabetes, and childhood cancer, Lions Clubs International ensures a brighter future for all.
