Timmins service club on the hunt for young cubs looking to give back

TIMMINS - Local youth will soon have an opportunity to learn more about community involvement, and themselves.

The Schumacher Lions Club is looking to start a Leo Club, for young people aged 12-19 years. An information meeting for youth and parents will be held on Saturday, Sept. 21, at the Lion’s Den, downstairs at the McIntyre arena (entrance by the McIntyre Coffee Shop), starting at 1 p.m.

Leos are part of the Lions International family. In Leo Clubs, youth work together on projects they believe will make their community a better place. As a group, Leos come up with projects, do all the planning and prep work, until the project is completed. The club will elect its own board of directors, including president, vice-president, secretary, treasurer and up to three directors. 

While the club makes its own decisions, they will be advised and mentored by volunteers from the Lions Club.

“It’s an opportunity for young people to learn about the joys of community volunteering,” said Wayne Snider, secretary of the Schumacher Lions Club. “Back in the 1970s, I was a Leo.

“As a group, we got a lot accomplished and also had a lot of fun. It was an eye-opening experience. We learned how we can make a difference in our community.”

It also provides a convenient way for secondary school students to earn their required community service hours. All the work done by Leos, from meetings to working on projects, are part of volunteer service.

There are currently about 7,700 Leo Clubs worldwide, with more than 200,000 members in over 150 countries. Schumacher would be the second Leo Club currently active in Northeastern Ontario, the first being in Onaping Falls. 

Leos and Lions often work together on bigger projects, while supporting each other’s goals and initiatives.

“It is also good experience,” Snider said. “When you are looking for a job or applying to attend a college or university, being a Leo can be helpful. All the tasks involved in volunteer projects translate into life and job skills.”

Young people are asked to bring a parent or guardian with them to the information meeting. Organizers from the Lions Club will be on hand to answer any questions. Following an opportunity to sign up, there will be snacks and games, with a few prizes. There will also be a draw prize for a free foam party, which was donated by Climb N Fun.

“It is my hope that by establishing the Schumacher Leo Club, we will provide today’s young people with opportunities I enjoyed many years ago,” he said.