We Are Family 

by Wing-Kun Tam

President, The International Association of Lions Clubs

It’s a great privilege to serve as your international president. But I might not have become president or even become a dedicated Lion if it were not for how my club treated me. I was only 30 years old amid older Lions and I did not even understand Lions were about service. I joined a Hong Kong club because I was told Lions included the elite. My club president, older and wiser than me, gave me an assignment that made me understand our mission of service. When I realized the happiness I brought to others, I became an enthusiastic Lion.

From my first day as a Lion my club treated me like a family member, caring for me, encouraging me, doing what was best for me. Our clubs need to treat our members like family. Care for them, nurture them, look out for them. Give them projects they can handle, projects they are interested in. If someone in their family is sick, visit them, bring them food. If a Lion loses their job, try to cheer them up or alert them to job openings or people who may be able to help them.

Our clubs should be like families. The source of our strength in our clubs is the relationships we have with one another. We need to believe in one another and take care of one another like families do. If we do this, we will have no problems with retention. Our clubs will be full of members who are enthusiastic about service.

I know my theme, “I Believe,” can help Lions serve better and help Lions come together. Besides a family approach and family participation in clubs, we want to focus on Leos, leadership and public relations. We also want to plant one million trees this year. I believe this is a perfect project for Lions. It’s simple: anyone can plant a tree. You don’t need to be physically strong or have a green thumb. It’s achievable. It’s deliverable. It’s measurable.

I believe that one person can make a difference. I believe in the power of Lions clubs and districts to improve their communities. I believe we will reach new heights with courage, commitment and action. I believe 2011-12 will be a remarkable year for Lions, and I look forward to planting seeds of success that will flower for future generations of Lions and the people we serve.