Lions governor calls on stronger member commitment as Kumi students join club
“You cannot remain a Lion if you are not meeting your member obligation,” she said, emphasising that active membership involves more than just holding a title.
The governor of district 411B, Tush Naturinda, handing over some of the items that were donated to the students of Bishop Ilukor Memorial SS. (Photos by Godfrey Ojore)
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The members of Lions Clubs International have been reminded of their vital role of creating lasting change within their communities and beyond, as their leader called for continued dedication to both membership obligations and humanitarian giving.
Addressing fellow Lions of Kumi Central on Saturday evening, the governor of district 411B, Tush Naturinda, underscored the significance of contributing to the organisation’s global funding arm, which finances numerous life-changing initiatives around the world.
“You cannot remain a Lion if you are not meeting your member obligation,” she said, emphasising that active membership involves more than just holding a title. It also requires action, compassion, and a willingness to give.
Central to this call for giving is the Melvin Jones Fellowship (MJF), a special recognition for those who donate 1,000 US dollars (3.5 million Ugandan shillings) or more.
Named after the organisation’s founder, Melvin Jones, who established the movement in 1917, the fellowship represents a milestone in a Lion's journey of service.
“What matters most is having the heart to give even if you never meet the people who benefit,” said Naturinda.
"The money we contribute eventually returns to help us. Like in faith, the hand that gives is the one that receives.”
This principle is clearly illustrated in the success of recent Lions-supported projects in Uganda that include the school feeding programme in Karamoja, where LCIF invested 1 million US dollars (3.5 billion Ugandan shillings).
Though Uganda may not have contributed all that money, the collective donations world over facilitated the Lions to help the Karamoja region.
“Somebody out there contributed, and now our children are staying in school because of it,” said Naturinda.
The feeding programme aims to reduce school dropouts in Karamoja, a region often plagued by poverty and hunger.
Johnson Opolot, the Lions Club president of Kumi central rewarding the governor of district 411B, Tush Naturinda.
“We need more hands to join us. When we serve, both the giver and the receiver are blessed."
She was impressed with Kumi Central for recruiting secondary students into the club, noting that the move will instill the spirit of giving and discipline in students.
“There’s a place for everyone in Lions, and if you have ever wondered what Lions do, this is it. We come together, men and women alike, to make life better for others," said Naturinda at Bishop Ilukor Memorial Secondary School, where the club planted one hundred trees.
“Dear students, kindness is a virtue. Join us, and let’s serve our communities together."
The school has 200 students who joined Lions. The candidate students received mathematical sets, pads for girls and 100 kilograms of sugar.
Johnson Opolot, the club president, informed the governor that they have incorporated the schools with the aim of preparing them to take over from them.
“Most people fear joining Lions on claims that you must be rich. So we have started engaging students who don’t earn anything, but they are members now. Lions welcome talent, advisory and financial support from its members,” said Opolot.
Six new members joined the club and were inducted and welcomed by the governor.
The club has been holding health talks with students and communities, sensitising them on the importance of girls getting screened for breast cancer and cervical cancer and men for prostate cancer, as well as diabetes for both genders.