Local service clubs are often the only source of funds for small community initiatives. In St-Sylvestre, Quebec, the local Lions Club is helping to make a positive impact on the lives of kids who are growing up in the town.
An International Organization
Lions Clubs can be found in communities around the world.
“Our mission is to empower Lions Clubs, volunteers and partners to improve health and wellbeing, strengthen communities, and support those in need through humanitarian service and grants that impact lives globally, and encourage peace and international understanding,” representatives say on the Lions Clubs International website.
Lions Clubs around the world share a common focus on causes like childhood cancer, diabetes, disaster relief, the environment, humanitarian efforts, hunger, vision, and youth.
A Local Focus
Locally in St-Sylvestre, the Lions Club there recently noticed a gap when it comes to supporting the needs of children in the town.
“The youth of our community make up a small portion of our municipality,” a member of the St-Sylvestre Lions Club says. One consequence is that the municipal council cannot justify large grants to support youth programs. “Nonetheless, we truly believe that the young are our future, so we do everything possible to help them,” the member says.
Recently, the club held a fundraiser to address some needs that kids at a local school have. Pattern Energy’s Mont Sainte-Marguerite Wind contributed $1,000 to the cause.
“The Lions Club raised over $5,700 this year to help the municipality’s children. The sum will be used for food aid, clothing, travel, school supplies and activities. All the money goes back to the school or for activities for the kids. The Lions Club also offers some dinners for kids during the school year,” explains Marc-Antoine Landry, Assistant Facility Manager, Mont Sainte Marguerite Wind.
A History of Giving Back
This fundraiser is just one example of how the Lions Club gives back to their town.
“We have been raising funds since our founding in 1978. We respond to requests sent to us by individuals or groups who require financial assistance to carry out their projects. We are currently made up of 19 members from within the municipality and surrounding areas,” members say.
Mont Sainte-Marguerite is proud to support the St-Sylvestre Lions Club and their ongoing efforts to make positive impacts on youth and families in the town. Members say they are gearing up for a busy year.
“For 2024, we have a few fundraisers up our sleeves, such as our annual food drive and our annual fruit cake sale. We will undoubtedly implement other activities throughout the year to help raise funds to redistribute.”
