One might not think that environmental stewardship and club membership go hand in hand, but did you know that Earth Day is the most celebrated secular holiday in the world? Still not seeing the connection? For decades, Lions around the world have planted trees, cleaned up river banks, streets and parks, but if you asked the general public what Lions are known for, we’re guessing protecting our planet would not immediately come to mind. Earth Day is April 22 and there is no better time to plan an environmental service project and invite non-Lions to join you in service.
Here’s why your club should plan an Earth Day event!
- Climate change affects everyone.
- People from all walks of life are passionate about taking care of the environment.
Let’s capture their enthusiasm to maximize our service impact and grow our club membership. - There are unlimited ways to support a healthier planet. We are happy to announce newly developed Environment Service Areas that showcase how Lions and Leos protect the environment to create healthier communities and a more sustainable world. The service areas are aligned with global goals and connect your service to initiatives that support a healthier planet for all. Try one of these areas to get started!
- Tree Planting and Tree Care – Improve your community through the planting of locally appropriate tree seedlings or saplings, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment.
- Environmental Cleanup and Restoration – Protect nature and habitats by cleaning debris and shielding pollutants from harming ecosystems, marine life and the community.
- Recycling and Waste Management – Conserve resources and reduce waste to minimize adverse impacts on sustainability.
- Clean Water & Sanitation – Ensure safe water and adequate sanitation for all, promoting better health outcomes around the world.
- Lion voices create change for good.
Environmental Advocacy is an effective way to make impactful community connections while caring for our planet. Environmental advocacy is raising awareness of the importance of protecting the environment, educating club and community members on issues, and creating positive change through public policy. By creating awareness and providing education around issues like water pollution or carbon emissions, we help build community momentum, connect with passionate non-Lions and forge mutual motivation to create a healthier planet. We also know younger generations tend to increase their participation in the democratic process through more direct means, such as collective mobilization, signing petitions, spreading awareness on social media and speaking directly to lawmakers.
On Earth Day, let’s commit to both environmental action and membership growth. There’s no better way to show how #LionsGoGreen than by inviting our neighbors to join us!
