President's Message

Go Green in April

by Wing-Kun Tam
President, The International Association of Lions Clubs

So have we planted any trees? As you know, I asked Lions this year to plant 1 million trees. Basically, Lions said, “No problem. Consider it done.” To date, we’ve planted more than 7 million trees.

In the northern hemisphere, spring is just around the corner and I want to continue to encourage Lions to be green. In April, as the last of the four Global Service Action Campaigns, Lions are encouraged to complete an environmental project. Clean rivers or roadsides. Recycle cell phones, properly discard prescription medications or sponsor an environmental contest for schoolchildren. Resolve to treat our precious earth with utmost care.

Or plant a tree. This can be done in three easy steps: identify the sapling, plant it in the right place and then care and nourish it. Do you believe steps one, two and three are achievable? I know I heard you say, “Yes!” Then we can also easily achieve step four: care and nurture our members.

My point is that planting trees are not only great for the environment but the project also offers us a model for successful membership growth. To help clubs grow, we must identify a prospect, someone willing to serve. Step two: plant the prospect in the right place. In other words, find a club suitable for him or her. Then, most importantly, take the final steps of caring and nurturing the member. Make the member a part of the family. Give them a place at the table and a role they can relish and show them you care about them.

This year I have emphasized the importance of believing in our service mission and the importance of Lions to be family-like. These two concepts are central to any environmental project. Preserving our resources represents a belief in the future. We take action now so that our children and grandchildren may benefit. We believe in their future.

We also believe in the human family: our actions to protect the environment show a loving concern for all who inhabit our planet. So be a true Lion in April by serving our earth. Your belief in the power of service and everyone’s future will result in immeasurable good for millions of people worldwide.