Convention Wisdom

Tihs past weekend, I attended the annual convention of MD20, New York & Bermuda Lions Clubs. In ten years as a Lion, it was my first chance to be at a comvemtion 'officially', as delegate for my Club. More importantly, I went to support one of our members becoming District Governor.

Beyond that, I'd like to share some observations.

• There was the Long Island club which supports the Diabetes Research Institute.
• There were clubs from Brooklyn growing at amazing rates.
• There was at least one club which sponsors service dogs for the blind.
• Another, focuses on youth programs.
• Yet another presented on hearing loss

One common thread is what Lionism is all about; after all WE SERVE.

At the same time, it seems that many of the most successful clubs have an identity which may attract members. It strikes me that, in these days of MERL, and retenton drives, this may have been overlooked as an attraction for new members.

How mnay clubs can claim a unique identity? Does your club have a particular program associated with it in the community's eyes?

Like many, I'd like Lions to be all things to all our communities. But perhaps, choosing a project to concentrate a club's energy, efforts, etc. is way to create a common goal, have more impact in our communities.

What do you think, fellow Lions?