 |
Lions Clubs International - District 105M - Midland News Ordinary People doing Amazing Things |
The Importance of Lions Youth Programme
Photo: Richard and far left Leanne
When we were asked (Leanne and I) to help out with the Youth Exchange this year, we had no idea what we were letting ourselves in for. I was very wary and if I’m honest, felt reluctant to take part the closer it got. BUT………. We went anyway and within 1 hour, we were into the swing of things.
I can’t express the joy the youngsters bought to us and each other.
To think some of these youngsters’ countries are hostile to each other, are old foes or they didn’t even realise some of the other countries existed till they met up at camp is amazing. Each participant knew each others name, knew a little about each other’s countries by the end of the 10 days and bonded like old friends. But the overwhelming factor in all of this, is they knew why they were here and how they got here.
Their inquisitive minds tested me at times, asking questions of our country, our cultures, why do we play cricket and mainly, what is Leanne saying? Trying to explain to them that Leanne was from ‘The Black Country’ was difficult. Seriously though, I think we as Lions have something to be proud of. I can’t think of any other organization that can put on a gig like this. I would also like to think that we have inspired these people to be better people and I’m sure the majority of them will take back positive memories of 105M and specifically memories of Lions International.
These youngsters came to the camp as visitors and left as friends to us all. We put on a show and they took it in. I am proud to have helped out at Youth Camp and even more proud to be a Lion.
Lion Richard Beedles
 |
© 2008 Lions Clubs International |