Congratulations to the Lions of District OH5. We have, once again, hit the 100% mark in reporting our service activities (that is, every club in the district has reported in!). Statewide, 96% of the Lions from all seven districts have reported in, so we will almost certainly match our 100% reporting status, statewide, from the last two years. That’s a remarkable feat among Lions worldwide – we are the ONLY district to reach that mark. But… what have you done for us lately!?!
As Lions, we can’t afford to sit on our laurels. There are people out there who need our help and support. The fact that every club in District OH5 reported at least one service project in the first half of the year just goes to show that we can do it all again before the year is out. WE SERVE!!!
Meantime, did you know that your zip code matters more than your genetic code? I heard a fascinating speaker last week. Shiloh Todorov is with a group called Families Flourish. The organization “empowers families to address their total needs over a 3-year period, reversing historic barriers by fostering greater inclusivity, equality, opportunity and access to housing, education, and family wellness.” The program centers on intensive one-on-one coaching and advice on everything from handling finances, to career guidance, education, wellness, and housing goals. It begins with three years of rental support in safe, quality housing. Just by moving families into better (resource heavy) neighborhoods (zip codes!), they have seen dramatic change in the family income, credit scores, and health. Families Flourish children in their newer, healthier homes had dramatically fewer emergency room visits over the course of their first year in the program.
Many of the families participating in the program come directly from homelessness (living in shelters, in their cars, or doubled up with another family by necessity). They are being rehoused in 17 communities across the Central Ohio area, including many of the areas represented by OH5 clubs. In the last few years, Lions have honed in on the urgent need to support families experiencing food insufficiency. The availability of safe and healthy housing – and all that comes with it! – is equally urgent for some in our community. Perhaps there is a way your Lions Club can help. If you would like to have a speaker from Families Flourish visit your club, contact Shiloh Todorov, 614-787-7129, www.familiesflouish.org .
Yours in Lionism,
Lion Jane Jarrow
Global Service Team (GST) Coordinator for the Lions Clubs in Central Ohio
