Linda and I had an opportunity this past weekend to volunteer at the
latest Project New Hope retreat. We probably should have had to pay a fee to
participate. It was a real special occasion to be able to interact with some of
our countries military families. I never served in the military but feel that
I was still able to connect with all the families I came in contact with. I
could not help but wonder why more people from our Lions clubs did not take part
in the event. I’m sure there is a closet full of excuses. I have a large box
filled with those as well. Yes, Friday after lunch I wondered why I had to leave
the project I was working on at home to drive to Cascade Camp. Probably just as
any of you would have.
In many ways I feel I got more out of it than the participants but then
again it always seems that way when we volunteer to help others. It’s also a
fuel to volunteer again at this or other events.
Some of these G.I.’s have been deployed three times to combat in the mid
east. I surly am able to give up a weekend to help, in any way needed, these
brave families re unite. A privilege to amuse their children for a few hours
so that mom and dad can re-lay a solid foundation for their relationship. An
ear to listen to future family dreams. A G.I. to thank for his service.
It was interesting to see how many non lion volunteers there were. I
hope that the next time Dee looks to the Lions for help that every proud club
in our zone will stand up to thank the next families.
So if your asking what does that have to do with membership my guess is
you don’t have a lot of new quality members in your club. Your club is probably
the same old thing losing a member every couple of years and complaining how
hard it is to get new members.
This retreat was a great way to show how volunteering , caring,talking
makes others take interest in our organization. I spoke to at least five
people, some volunteers, some G.I. families that wanted to know about Lions.
What else we do and how to get more information. I had two ready to come to one
of my meeting but I thought Tacoma and Spanaway would be too far for them to
travel and that we have multiple clubs in those areas. I gave then info on how
to contact those clubs but my guess will be that they won’t because of no follow
up. Membership happens by example, leadership and a willingness to volunteer
with no apparent reward. Little do they know how much I gleaned from the
retreat.
Oops, forgot to mention the two contacts I made with people who work on
base ( wonder if that will help my club going forward)
Hope to see someone from every
club at the next Project New Hope.
TIE DYE SHIRTS:
George Johnson - the Bird House Man!
Workshop
Workshop
Fishing off the dock!
Canoes
Bobbie walking the baby....
Ziplining!
Rubicon (ATV's)
Horse & Pony Rides....
Workshops with the parents
Volunteers & Families Together
Thank you to all of our Volunteers!
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