THE Leo Club of Castries recently celebrated their 32nd Anniversary of their charter.
As an integral part of the Lions International network, Leos also have their own network of more than 5,700 Leo Clubs in approximately 140 nations.
The objective of the Leo movement is to provide the youth of the world with an opportunity for development and contribution–individually and collectively–as responsible members of the local, national and international community.
In Saint Lucia, the Leo Club of Castries has remained steadfast over the past 32 years. Community service remains the cornerstone of the Leo programme. Like their Lion counterparts, Leo Club members enjoy serving their neighbours and watching positive results unfold while engaging in fun filled activities.
Through the years the Leo Club of Castries has been active in the community, providing young persons with an opportunity to enrich lives by engaging in activities including:
• Breast cancer awareness campaign
• Diabetes Awareness education and prevention
• Lions Reading Action Programme
• Sponsoring educational opportunities for needy children
• Raising funds for youth, educational and community projects
• Environmental Preservation and Awareness
• Assisting in times of natural disaster
• Feeding the homeless and providing food hampers to shut-ins
The Leo Club of Castries in implementing these projects has fostered partnerships with the community and business organizations and is an active participant in the Super J Yoplait Breast Cancer Awareness Walk, the St Lucia Diabetic and Hypertension Association and The Caribbean Youth Network.
Some of the activities planned to mark the anniversary included: a Church service and brunch, delivery of hampers to needy families, Odsan Combined School Socks Project and Fundraising Movie on the Freewinds
Despite the impact that the club has had in the community it has continued to struggle with the issue of attracting and retaining young persons with the commitment and dedication to community service.
Membership in a Leo Club is open to young people between the ages of 18 and 30, with good character and an interest in serving community. Young persons interested in serving community can contact The Leo Club of Castries at [email protected] or like us on Facebook “Leo Club of Castries – Saint. Lucia.”