WELCOME TO HAILSHAM LIONS

Hailsham Lions Club was formed in 1970 with twenty members, and today it’s still going strong. The Club members meet every first Tuesday of the month at the Charles Hunt Centre, in the heart of the town, at 7.30pm. And new members will be most welcome.

However, before getting into how to join the Lions, here’s a few words about how the idea came about. It was the brainchild of a Chicago born man, Melvin Jones, who formed the first club during 1917. He reasoned that, although individuals helped those in need, it would be far better if those people did it collectively. There are now over 46,000 Lions Clubs in 202 countries with a membership exceeding 1.3 million, and 18,000 of those are in this country and Ireland, earning it the title of the largest service club organisation. Another aspect to mention here, all Lions Clubs are non-political, non-religious and non-sectarian, and open to men and women adults. All monies donated, and raised through fund raising, are used for local charitable purposes, covering young and not-so-young who need financial assistance for a project or piece of equipment. Like so many charitable organisations, the Club has many calls for help and it has to be careful in the distribution to ensure money is used wisely. Each application for financial or other help is considered on its merits and discussed at the monthly business meetings. Over 84% of funds are spent locally.

However, it’s not all fund raising and meetings. Hailsham Club members also know how to have fun either through monthly social events, the annual BBQ, coffee mornings, and hosting the mid-year and Christmas parties for our not-so-young friends.

The Lions motto is “Ordinary People – Amazing Things” bringing sunshine into the lives of those less fortunate and helping raise funds for those in need. Why not come along to see what it’s all about on the first Tuesday in the month, or phone Mike Osborne on 0845 833 9828 (local) or email info@hailshamlions.co.uk. Also check out the Facebook page. You will be very welcome to join the Lions family.