Lions Club hosts official Charter Dinner

The club’s President-elect Catherine Howell and all members were inducted by the District Governor, Lion Dave Cousins.

The club is a dream come true for Lion Lionel Chazen, who has wanted to start a club in the area for several years.

With the assistance of Lion Evelyn Herzfeld, members have been sourced from people they spoke to at various projects over the last two years and several other areas.

The club was officially recognised by Lions Clubs International on July 15, 2014. There are currently 23 members and the club welcomes people who wish to give their time and energy to assist the less fortunate in the community.

“The Lions motto is ‘We Serve’ and we are privileged to be able to provide food parcels to the needy, toiletry packs to teenagers living in group homes, guide and service dogs in conjunction with SA Guide Dogs and spectacles for those who cannot afford them through our own Operation BrightSight project. We also entertain the elderly in various homes, as well as children, especially over Easter and Christmas,” said Lion Herzfeld.

The club raises funds through bi-monthly pub quiz evenings at De Kniepe and held a successful dance last year with excellent results.

“But, without the generous support of the Kensington public, we will not be able to undertake all our planned activities. We have a Facebook page and all our events are publicised there, as well as on the Ilka website,” said Lion Herzfeld.

Food donations can be directed to Lion Diane Gomes on 082 460 0962.

Lions Club International was started in Chicago in 1917 by converting men’s business clubs to Lions Clubs, on the premise that these businessmen were the more fortunate in the community and should help those less fortunate in the communities.

“Today, we are the world’s largest service organisation, numbering some 1.35 million members in about 210 countries. On a larger scale, Lions Club International provides disaster relief. We in South Africa have had more international assistance than we have contributed to them, over the years. We have a great deal of fun while doing our various projects. Friendships are made for a lifetime and fellowship is an important part of our social calendar.” said Lion Herzfeld.

The renowned Lions Christmas Cakes are a big fundraiser and they are available from now until Christmas. To obtain cakes, contact Lion Callan Karamitas on 083 507 2177, or contact Lion Natasha Florio on 079 108 9926 to place an order. Residents can also contact them if they would like to make a donation.

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