The Lions Step In
More than 10 years ago, the Janesville Noon Lions Club saw a need in their community. A group of Lions banded together with Leos and their families to make their community a better place, both on Earth Day and throughout the season.
“The Lions motto of We Serve to me means that we need to be proactive,” said Mike Payne, the club’s president. “We need to be involved in the community. We need to engage others to make this a better place for ourselves and our families.”
Lions ensure the landscaping in the park is neat and free of trash and weeds. The Lions also cover the ground with fresh mulch and plant new shrubs on Earth Day. The entire park takes the Lions and Leos two weekends to complete every spring so the public can enjoy the space all summer long.
Hard Work Pays Off
The work ethic and know-how is something the Lions want to share. Leos from Craig High School help with the gardening efforts and learn how to properly care for trees. “We as Janesville Noon Lions Club members believe that we will instill in those students the need to serve their communities for years to come,” said Lions Steve Huth.
Lions often bring their spouses and children along for the project. Even young children help out where they can by sweeping the sidewalk and raking mulch. The youngsters learn how fun it can be to volunteer.
Fast Facts
Earth Day began in Green Bay, Wisconsin in 1970. The Janesville Noon Lions Club has worked on this environmental project for more than 10 years. It takes 20 cubic yards of mulch to cover the park’s flowerbeds.
