Congratulations on 25 years of sterling service

Most people are aware of the work done by Lions worldwide for and with the blind and visually impaired. However, their support for young people and their strengthening of communities are not as well known.

IT IS my pleasure, as an honorary member of the Lions Club of New Kingston, to have been asked to be the patron.

One of the features of governance in the modern world is the limited capacity of governments to meet the expanding needs of its citizens. The result is that to sustain a viable community, volunteerism has assumed responsibility to fill the gap. The Lions Club of New Kingston has been exemplary in its contribution to improving the quality of life for the marginalised in our society.

Twenty-five years is a significant length of time of meaningful contribution to the vulnerable in society, and it is fitting that you should celebrate your achievements over these many years

SUPPORT FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

Most people are aware of the work done by Lions worldwide for and with the blind and visually impaired. However, their support for young people, and the strengthening of communities are not as well known.

Locally, the efforts made by the committed professionals, business people and retired persons of the Lions Club of New Kingston must be highly commended. The demands on persons across the board have made it difficult for people to volunteer their time to organisations such as yours, and it is, therefore, admirable that you have been able not only to attract, but to keep volunteers of the calibre of the members of this club. Your commitment to service, your support of the young, through sponsorship of Leo clubs, have all enabled young people in our communities and educational institutions to volunteer their talents and time in service to others.

I note that this Lions Club has extended its reach beyond the Metropolitan Area into Port Antonio, where you have sponsored the Lions Club of Port Antonio, and I wish to commend you for this initiative.

The value of your work locally with the blind and visually impaired should not be underestimated. I am sure that your sight screening in offices, schools, and communities to detect possible vision problems has ensured that early detection has resulted in preventative care being available to those who need it.

I also note that your services include geriatric care and health and community improvement, all of which contribute to ensuring that our nation’s citizens are cared for.

As you continue to grow and flourish, I wish that you will always be able to attract many others with similar desires to be of service to those in need and that the young people whom you nurture and support will cheerfully adopt your practice of volunteerism.

Congratulations on 25 years of sterling service to our nation! LADY RHEIMA HALL Patron