Benefits of Service

This past week I was invited to speak at the Malden Lions club.

It was an enjoyable afternoon with some fine community members.

As a member of the Kennett Rotary Club, I enjoy meeting with other civic organizations and exchanging ideas on service projects.

Our area civic clubs have long provided help for those in need.

But are we losing this last segment of community service?

Attending club meetings, such as those held by Rotary and Lions clubs, has declined by 58 percent since 1975.

These clubs aren’t the only activities in decline.

Voter participation, church attendance, and writing letters to the editor of your local newspaper are sliding as well.

Perhaps it’s the amount of tv we watch. We seem to have retreated into our comfortable living rooms.

When you join a club or attend church, you are forced to interact with people from all walks of life.

You find a common purpose.

By showing up and working together you’re strengthening our communities.

It’s also beneficial for your health. We are social animals. We need to be involved in these organizations.

In these civic clubs, neighborhood betterment projects are undertaken, and scholarships are given.

In general, they are doing good but they need new applicants.

Retaining and recruiting members is a high priority with these clubs and they all struggle in this regard.

Think about visiting one of your local clubs, and consider joining.

Statistics show those that volunteer live longer.

On your first visit they’ll probably feed you.

You’ll hear a prayer and say the pledge of allegiance.

Some clubs sing, and some hold drawings.

Here’s what they all do...they set an example of what it means to be a responsible member of society.

Check out one of the area civic clubs.

If you just sit at home and complain, you’ll never make a difference.

It’s critical that you begin to interact with people.

It’s beneficial for you and your community and you’ll have a good time.

I enjoyed my time with the Malden Lions.

They fed me a cheeseburger and applauded my presentation.

I like their vests as well. I might have to get me one of them.

See you out there.