Join the Lions and Make a Difference Locally and Globally!
We are more than just a local charity – we’re part of a global movement with a mission to transform lives. Founded in Chicago in 1917, Lions Clubs International is one of the largest service organisations in the world, with 1.4 million members in nearly every country. Here in Morley, our club has been serving Morley, South Leeds, and North Kirklees since 1978 – nearly 50 years of community action, support, and friendship.
What We Do
Our passion for making a difference is reflected in the diversity of our activities. One of our most popular events is the Morley March & Hymn Tune Contest, a collaboration with the Morley Community Development Committee. This annual celebration brings vibrant music to Queen Street and the Town Hall, showcasing brass and silver bands from northern England in a free concert that highlights our love for community and culture.
Beyond events, we provide practical support to residents in need, working closely with local social workers, nurses, and occupational therapists. Over the years, we’ve provided essential household items such as carpets, cookers, fridges, and washing machines. We’ve even installed key safes, enabling secure access for carers to help vulnerable residents. Each project – no matter the size – represents our commitment to putting the community first.
One of our standout initiatives is Message in a Bottle, which helps emergency services quickly access vital medical and contact information during a crisis, providing peace of mind to residents and their families.
In October 2024 alone, our members volunteered 329 hours to support over 100 residents. Through fundraising in 2023/24, we provided £7,226 in goods to individuals and £699 in grants to other local charities.
Think Local, Act Global
While we are rooted in the Morley community, our work extends globally. Lions Clubs International empowers us to contribute to causes worldwide. For example, after the 2006 Boxing Day tsunami, we helped rebuild a community center and library in Sri Lanka. Thanks to ongoing book donations, the library continues to serve as a vital resource for education and community development. Vision care is another priority. Our club participates in a global initiative to collect and recycle unused spectacles, which are distributed to people in need around the world. By restoring the gift of sight, we help change lives in powerful ways. The Lions Clubs International Foundation supports major global projects, funding 9.7 million cataract surgeries and providing over $140 million in disaster relief. By joining the Lions, you contribute to local initiatives and life-changing projects across the globe.
Why Join Morley and District Lions Club?
Right now, Morley and District Lions Club has just seven members. Imagine how much more we could accomplish with your help! Whether you want to volunteer, fundraise, or participate in community projects, there’s a place for you in our club.
Being a Lion is more than charity work; it’s an opportunity for personal and professional growth. Over my 11 years as a member, I’ve gained skills in leadership, project management, dispute resolution, and administration – training that benefits not only the club but also my career and personal life. It’s also a fantastic way to meet new people, form lasting friendships, and have fun along the way. We meet on the second Wednesday of every month at The East & West Ardsley Social Club (behind Nisa, near Country Baskets) at 7:30pm. Why not join us for a meeting and see what we’re all about?
If you’d like more information, feel free to contact me, Clive Barwell, Treasurer, at 07770 404 400.
By joining the Lions, you’ll be part of a legacy of service, compassion, and community. Together, we can make a difference – locally and globally. We look forward to welcoming you!
Stay connected and follow our activities:
www.morleyanddistrictlions.org
