Lions are roaring loud

RYE Lions are flying high with Lions Clubs International experiencing it’s fourth straight year of membership increase. While many volunteer organizations continue to see a decline in members, 2010/11 marks the first time in nearly 20 years that the world’s largest service club organisation has recorded four straight years of membership increase.

Lions have developed regional programs in areas such as India and China that are experiencing success in recruiting members. Membership in China has increased by nearly 25 per cent in the last year. Lions are the first and only service club allowed by the government of The People’s Republic of China to charter clubs and operate in China. Membership is also increasing rapidly in countries such as India, where 70 per cent of the population is younger than 40. Lions Clubs International has 1.35 million members in 206 countries and geographic areas. In addition to its efforts toward conquering blindness, the organization has made a strong commitment to community service and helping youth throughout the world.

Closer to home Rye and District Lions organise Rye’s big annual Raft Race, attend village fetes and make many donations to local causes and charities.

Rye and District Lions details can be found at www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/ryedistrict/index.php or by ringing 01797 252921 and they welcome new adult members from Rye and villages out as far as Hawkhurst, Camber and Westfield.