News from Headquarters: Spanish Lion Donates Statue Created by His Father

The original statue in Vigo, Spain

Our organization is fortunate to have generations of families serving together as Lions. This week, Manuel Castro traveled from Spain to present our organization with a meaningful statue created by his father. Manuel Castro Alonso is a stone craftsman who dreamed his work would reach our headquarters one day.

In 1992, the charter member of the Vigo Lions Club created the 20-foot statue dedicated to Lions, which was erected on a mountain. He wanted to encapsulate the meaningful interactions Lions clubs provide to their communities.

“It represents the Lions’ integration of people – men, women and children. It’s about a social movement,” Manuel said about his father’s creation.

For years, Manuel’s father dreamed of bringing a replica of the statue to Lions Clubs International headquarters in Oak Brook, Ill., but faced many challenges. Manuel took up the cause and fulfilled his father’s dream.

“He always had in mind to have the statue here,” Manuel said. “I believe he will be very happy.”

Manuel Castro with the replica statue at Lions Clubs International headquarters