Leaders and members of Lions Clubs International’s District 16L gathered at the Maple Shade Lions Clubhouse for their recent Cabinet Meeting, sharing updates, planning upcoming service projects, and reinforcing the organization’s commitment to community service across South Jersey.
Lion Sapana Raval, vice president of the Voorhees-Gibbsboro Lions Club, described her role in leading and organizing service initiatives.
“I am inspired by the opportunity to serve others,” she said. “Being part of this community encourages me to engage others in our efforts, creating a ripple effect that fosters a culture of giving back.”
As a charter member of her club, Raval highlighted projects including food drives, vision screenings, and community education initiatives.
District 16L, which represents a large network of passionate Lions across South Jersey, offers members the chance to collaborate and share resources.
“The support within our district enhances our initiatives and fosters camaraderie among clubs,” Raval added.
The qualities that define effective Lions leadership includes “compassion, vision, communication, inclusivity, and motivation,” shared Current District Governor Lionn Sarah Taylor-Deak.
“Our goal is to inspire action, cultivate leaders, and build a better tomorrow,” she said, adding theyn encourage younger generations to get involved including hands-on service, leadership opportunities, and flexible membership options.
Immediate Past District Governor Lion Terry Rosiak described the importance of the Cabinet Meeting as a platform for sharing information, networking, and planning.
“It’s a great way to meet other clubs and share ideas,” she said. “Past district governors provide guidance and experience to support current leadership, helping our clubs thrive.”
Past District Governor Lion Donna Freidel highlighted several impactful initiatives, including diabetes awareness and fundraising events, vision screening programs, and hunger relief efforts. Some standout projects include the Winslow Lions’ diabetes camp for newly diagnosed adults with Type 1 Diabetes and the Haddonfield Lions’ holiday shopping program, which provides disadvantaged students with both resources and mentorship.
Freidel noted that the Voorhees-Gibbsboro Lions, now in their second year, are expanding their reach with projects focused on financial literacy, women’s issues, and inclusive programming.
“We are looking to grow specialty clubs focusing on the arts, LGBTQ+ community, animal rescue, and 4H initiatives,” she said.
District 16L aims to continue inspiring action and developing leaders who serve with purpose. Globally, Lions Clubs International’s theme, “Lead to Serve. Serve to Lead,” reflects the organization’s commitment to creating a world where leadership and service are intertwined.
“Together, as Lions, we are building a movement of leadership through service — transforming lives and transforming the world,” Taylor-Deak said.
Lions Clubs International, one of the world’s largest and most respected service organizations, has been empowering volunteers to serve their communities since 1917. With more than 1.4 million members across over 200 countries, the Lions focus on a wide array of social issues, including vision care, health initiatives, youth programs, and environmental projects. New Jersey Lions Clubs exemplify this mission through hands-on local projects such as vision screenings, scholarships, food drives, disaster relief, and community events.
For more information about Lions Clubs International in South Jersey, or to get involved with District 16L initiatives, contact Lion Donna Freidel at dlfesq@aol.com.
