Mission Statement

First, thank you to David who stepped in when my health prevented me from taking up the presidency last year. Ive realised I can’t put this off for another year.

So here goes!! I have the utmost respect for our club, Past presidents, their glorious achievements and some of our hard working, dedicated members. I believe in the maxim “if it ain’t broke – don’t fix it “. so With this in mind I will not be attempting to reinvent the wheel this year. I realise that after barely 10 years in the club, I may still be seen as a Rookie? Many of those years have been spent on my passion for injecting the FUN into our fundraising. I am pleased that my introduction of the Alzheimer’s’ memory tree on Valentine’s weekend, the Waiters race and Bridges Three Kings presentation, have become three annual diary dates in La Cala. However, I appreciate, I follow a long line of innovative Presidents.

Ros for her establishment of the shops. The ramifications of which continue to thrive.

Anne who has been indefatigable with her commitment to Diabetics support.

Julie with her annual feed a family at Christmas drive for Caritas and

Wynson’s children with cancer day for families. Can we show our appreciation

My mission and focus this year will be on :-

• Fostering more public visibility. Where possible and using caution. (I’m sure we’ve all met people who still have no idea what the Lions are about?.)

• I will continue to concentrate on recruiting new members and volunteers who share our goals and aspirations.

• Promote our inclusivity.

• Our Alzheimer’s’ workshops grow from strength to strength and our network of ‘help in the home’ volunteers are incredible. Which brings me to my next mission or maybe it should be passion. I feel it very necessary to elevate and celebrate the position of our volunteers. Firstly, they are the loyal backbone of our highest earner – our shops!! . Thankfully, over the last few years some have also taken over the mantle of positions

• at events, where Lions have been unable to attend. For these events, I propose to initiate a separate blue Polo or tee shirt displaying the logo ” Pride of Lions” for identification at our fundraisers. I think this will promote not only a corporate look but also engender a feeling of cohesion and worth. I will, of course, being a true Yorkshirewoman, be looking for sponsors!

This year, I intend to work closely with our Membership secretary (sorry David)!! Between us, we need to look closely at our recruitment – and welcome of – new and prospective members. I’ve lost count of excellent people who have been disillusioned due to the reception they have received at their first meetings. It must be addressed. I am delighted that this year the team has been joined by some exceptional people. We can now accommodate translations in Spanish, Arabic, Dutch, German and our latest – Norwegian. Not forgetting – Welsh and Yorkshire !! To demonstrate this I have, this week been approached by clients with varying life altering problems. I felt honoured that I could point them to people who could deal with their diverse problems. These included U.K. And Spanish Health, Spanish law, Court procedure, personal pensions, social security and translations, all encompassed in our tiny band. We have all learned SO much this year. (Unfortunately most of it was gleaned through another person’s sad situation.) SO, PLEASE everyone, if possible, avoid speaking to any occupants of public benches !!! We can’t cope with another! Thank you