It’s National Volunteer Week this week and Australia’s largest service organisation is on a mission.
Since the first Lions Club was formed in Lismore on September 29 1947, Lions Australia has grown in size and impact with over 1,200 clubs and 25,000 volunteers across the country, including in Hume and Whittlesea.
The organisation has now set itself a goal of having 30,000 members by 2030 and 50,000 members by 2050.
Lions Australia chief executive Rob Oerlemans said National Volunteer Week is not just about recognising the wonderful work of existing volunteers but also encouraging anyone in the community who may be interested in giving back to give volunteering a go.
“Volunteers are needed in the community now more than ever and Lions Australia is committed to ensuring we continue to grow our organisation and meet the needs of our communities.”
“Our 25,000 plus volunteers often serve their communities silently behind the scenes. This National Volunteer Week is a wonderful opportunity to not only recognise the incredible difference our members make every day but also give people an opportunity to learn more about our organisation,” he said.
“For anyone interested in volunteering, it’s an excellent time to join us. We just finished our national conference which was the first full conference we have had since Covid. It was such a powerful reminder of the incredible impact Lions have across so many parts of the community, the need for our service and the many benefits of being part of an organisation like ours. Whether you want to cure cancer, help the deaf and blind, diabetes prevention, support communities after a natural disaster or simply meet some new people and give back to your local community – Lions can help you make a difference.
“Our goal is that the demographic makeup of our clubs matches the demography of the community in which they operate. We’re so proud to have a growing number of speciality clubs across Australia ranging from young Leo clubs, virtual clubs, ethnic clubs, special interest and autism clubs. Whatever your interest, chances are there is a Lions club that can help or others in the community who would be interested in starting one with you.”
