Tag Archives: appreciation

Armed Forces Day + Ways to Thank a Veteran

16 Thursday May 2019

Posted by in Holidays, News, Special Events

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Photo by Sharefaith on Pexels.com

If you were tasked with brainstorming symbols to characterize each month of the year, what would they be? January might be a party hat, February would be a traditional red heart, March could be best described as a tulip (buried under a foot of snow,) April might be a raincloud and May would be an American Flag.

The fifth month of the year is an especially patriotic time in the United States. At the end of the month, we’ll celebrate veterans who gave the ultimate sacrifice on Memorial Day, but we have another chance to say “thank you for your service” before then.

This Saturday, May 18, is Armed Forces Day, a holiday that is always observed on the third Saturday in May. The holiday was created to help pay tribute to people of the Armed Forces. Unbeknownst to many, up until 1949, there were single day celebrations for each branch of the military. After the branches were unified under the Department of Defense, leaders thought it best to commemorate them all on one day.

For those of us who have never been involved in the military, it can be difficult, if not impossible, to imagine what time in the service must be like. Members of the military put their lives on the line to protect our freedom, so how do you genuinely say, “thank you?” The best way to get started is with a handshake, but we think we can go above and beyond when it comes to expressing our gratitude. We’ve compiled a few thank you ideas to begin the brainstorming process, with the help of Military.com:

  1. Donate your frequent flyer miles to the family of a veteran

    If you’re an avid traveler, consider donating those extra miles to a family in need. The Hero Miles Program gives airline tickets to wounded, injured and ill service members as well as their families who are undergoing treatment at a military or VA medical center. Learn how to donate your miles.

  2. Hire a veteran to speak at your next event

    To say a veteran learned a few valuable lessons during their time in the military would likely be an understatement. These individuals have incredible insight about leadership, team work and persistence. The next time you are looking for a speaker, bring in a veteran for the job.

  3. Shop from a veteran-owned business

    Did you know that over 2.5 million businesses in the United States are majority-owned by veterans? Choose to support these entrepreneurs by visiting their facilities or adding them to the supply chain of your company.

  4. Invite a veteran to join you and your club

Veterans have experience turning plans into actions, leading groups and brainstorming new and innovative ideas, and many want to get involved in local service work. They are just a natural fit into the Lions community. Invite a veteran to attend your next club meeting.

These are only four of an infinite number of thoughtful ways to say, “I am so grateful for your service.” How will you thank a veteran? Let us know in the comments below!

The Lions Pride Board and Staff would like to wish all military service members and their families a Happy Armed Forces Day!

 

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The Magic of Giving

20 Thursday Dec 2018

Posted by in Giving Tips, Holidays, Lions Camp, Special Events

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Think back to your favorite Christmas memory. You were likely a small child. You can Santa is placing gift boxes under Christmas treeprobably remember your excitement as the holiday quickly approached. The days leading up to Christmas Eve, you were on your best behavior (but had good reminders from your parents and teachers.) When December 24 finally arrived, you couldn’t wait to go to sleep that night. Your mom and dad likely helped you prepare for the evening with a fresh plate of cookies and a glass of milk. You brushed your teeth and quickly went to bed, but then spent most of the night watching the clock – just waiting for an appropriate time to wake up. Then on Christmas morning, you couldn’t believe your eyes as you found a Christmas tree full of presents replaced with an empty plate. You believed in the magic of Christmas.

Sadly, things change as we grow older. Our excitement was instead replaced with stress and a To-Do list a mile long, and the spirit fades. Fortunately, the magic does reappear as we have children of our own, but our roles change – from excited child to excited parent. We also spend Christmas Eve, making preparations and not getting much shuteye because we too are eager to watch our children thrilled be opening our gifts. Then quietly smiling when they ask, “How did Santa know this is exactly what I wanted?” As parents, we come to discover a new kind of magic – the magic of giving.

But as life continues on, the cycle continues. Our children grow up, and the spirit again slightly fades.

Luckily, as supporters of Lions Pride, we have a unique role that allows us to play Santa all year long. How, you might ask? By giving special children all around the state of Wisconsin the gift of experience. This year, over 150 children were given the opportunity to spend a week in the beautiful place known as the Wisconsin Lions Camp. During their week at camp, these kids have the chance for overnight camping, canoe and hiking trips, swimming, kayaking, paddle boating, archery, crafts, sports and more. All the while, they are also developing self-confidence, interdependence, social skills and outdoor recreational skills, at no cost to their families.

This particular gift may not be beautifully wrapped under a bright, full Christmas tree, but we know in our hearts that it’s a gift that keeps on giving all year long because a child’s week at camp allows them the resources, skills and experiences that will serve them long beyond their childhoods.

Of course, none of this would be possible without you, the help of our donors, the lifeblood of our organization. We never get tired of saying thank you for your ongoing support. Although our biological children may be grown, we look forward to playing the role of Santa for countless years to come. Thank you for helping us continue our mission to preserve, provide and protect Lions Camp and all other WLF statewide projects.

The Lions Pride Office will be closed the week of December 24, to celebrate Christmas with our families. We’d like to wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas!

The Lions Pride 2018 Annual Meeting

19 Thursday Jul 2018

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Happy New Year! No, you’re not experiencing déjà vu, and we’re not losing our minds! If Annual Reportyou are familiar with Lions, you know that July is the official start of the Lionistic New Year. Each year, Lions Club International finishes off the year with the international convention. Lions Pride has a similar tradition by hosting the organization’s annual meeting.

The board meets four times annually to discuss financial activity, upcoming events and the organization as a whole. But this Friday, July 20, is a bit different because, after the regularly scheduled board meeting, Lions Pride will hold the annual meeting, in which everyone is invited – donors, volunteers and advocates. At this meeting, the board will have the chance to speak directly to the general public on the organization’s current standing.

During the meeting, we will be discussing the 2017-2018 activities, fundraising efforts, donors and donations as well as the overall organization standing. We’ll also hear from our President Sam Kochel and get the opportunity to thank our donors in person. And, if we’re lucky, we may even get to treat ourselves to a couple of Geri’s famous chocolate chip cookies.

If you are able to attend, please notify the Pride Staff by calling 715-677-7000. If you aren’t able to make it to tomorrow’s meeting, the annual report will be available online early next week. If you’d like to receive an electronic or paper copy (supplies are limited), you can request one by emailing us at prideoffice@lionspride.org.

As we diligently prepare for the annual meeting, we can’t help but take a trip down Memory Lane. The 2017-2018 Lionistic Year was another exceptional one filled with achievement and gratitude. We feel so lucky to have the opportunity to work with such an amazing group of people and never tire of saying “thank you.” We truly appreciate your continued support.

We’re excited about celebrating the year’s successes while brainstorming new ideas for the year ahead. We hope you’ll consider joining us. See you then!

A 2017 Thanksgiving Message from Lions Pride

23 Thursday Nov 2017

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Today is a day to give thanks. Thanksgiving is one of our favorites times of the year Pumpkinsbecause it allows us a chance to reflect on all of life’s blessings. In the days leading up to Thanksgiving, we had some time to think about all that we’re thankful for here at Lions Pride. In 2017, we’ve been able to help financially support the Wisconsin Lions Camp and all WLF projects, which resulted in opportunities to:

  • Send over 150 Wisconsin children to Lions Camp this summer where they were able to learn lifelong skills that will serve them well beyond their childhoods. Campers were able able to explore various outdoor activities, build lasting friendships and enjoy being kids in a fun, safe environment.
  • Collect eyeglasses that were recycled and shared with people in need from all around the world.
  • Screen the eyes of thousands of children from all around the state from ages 6 months to teenage. With early detection, we’re able to help preserve and protect a child’s gift of sight.
  • Provide local communities with diabetes education. As you likely already know, diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in people aged 20 to 74, as well as a significant cause of other serious health complications. Our primary goal is to help reduce the number of blindness cases through education, early detection and treatment.

None of these accomplishments would be possible without the generous support of our donors. We would not be “Today’s help, tomorrow’s hope” without you. We are so thankful to have you support us in our mission. We never grow tired of saying “thank you.”

The Lions Pride office will be closed today and Friday to celebrate the holiday. We’d like to wish you and your family a safe and happy Thanksgiving!

 

Celebrate Veterans Day with Gratitude

09 Thursday Nov 2017

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“Honoring the sacrifices many have made for our country in the name of freedom is theWaving Flag very foundation of Veterans Day.” –Charles B. Rangel

This Saturday, we’ll have the opportunity to our nation’s living heroes in the 80th official Veterans Day. Originally known as Armistice Day, Veterans Day was created on November 11, 1919, on the first anniversary of the end of World War I. In 1926, Congress passed a resolution in 1926 for an annual observance and became a national holiday in 1938.

Unlike Memorial Day, Veterans Day pays tribute to all American veterans, who served on any branch of the US military during peacetime or war, living or dead, but especially giving thanks to all living veterans. The US Census Bureau estimates that there are currently over 21 million living veterans in the United States.

You’ve likely already seen lots of businesses celebrating the holiday with sales and specials, but may wonder the best way to celebrate the occasion. Here at Lions Pride, we feel the best way to recognize the holiday is with gratitude. Here are a few ideas on you could thank a veteran over the weekend:

  • Write a letter

Everyone loves mail! Well, maybe not direct mail, but we’d be willing to bet you greeted your last handwritten letter with a smile. This Veterans Day, thank a vet in the form of a letter. Operation Gratitude is on a mission to show our nation’s heroes how much we care about them. And nothing says more that more than a handwritten note that can be saved forever. Each year, the organization sends care packages and letters to veterans all over the county. Find out how you can start your first letter.

  • Visit a veterans nursing home

We think quite possibly the best way to thank someone is in person! Consider contacting your local veterans nursing home to see if there are any residents who may be longing for company. After all who doesn’t love a friendly visit?

  • Invite a veteran to join Lions

You can show your appreciation as a Lion by inviting a veteran to serve with your club and reconnect with their community. In July 2013, Lions Club International introduced the Involve a Veteran Program. From now until June 30, 2018, qualifying veterans will receive waived entrance and chartered fees when they join a Lions Club. Eligible veterans include all branches of the US military – Army, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard personnel who are retired or honorably discharged. The National Guard and Reserve personnel who were called to active duty for other training are also eligible. Learn more about the program.

These are only three of countless ways to thank a veteran for their sacrifice. How do you plan to celebrate Veterans Day?

To all of the men and women in uniform, past, present and future, God bless you and the Lions Pride Staff & Board want to thank you for your service.

Happy Veterans Day!

The 8th Annual Friendship 100 Ride

06 Thursday Jul 2017

Posted by in Lions Camp, News, Special Events

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Friendship 100 Riders

As you know, the Wisconsin Lions Camp gets special visitors all summer long, but in less than a week, we’ll be receiving a group of guests that won’t arrive in big, yellow buses – but rather roaring hogs!

We’re happy to announce that Open Road HD of Fond du Lac will be once again partnering with Lions Pride to hold the 8th Annual Friendship 100. The invitation-only ride was started back in 2009 and has raised over $30,000 for Lions Camp.

To participate, the riders raise a minimum donation of $100 before the event. Then together, the group takes a beautiful 100-mile ride from Fond du Lac to Rosholt. This year’s ride will be held on Wednesday, July 12.

After arriving, the riders will enjoy lunch at the recreation center, followed by a tour to experience the day in the life of a Wisconsin Lions Camper before making the trek home.

Year after year, we look forward to the Friendship 100. A unique part of our job is that we work with both Lions and non-Lions to support WLF projects, and there is nothing that we love more than taking part in activities that support the cause.

To all of the participating riders, we’d like to extend a special message for your continued support. Because of your generosity over the last eight years, you have guaranteed several camper spots in perpetuity, and we cannot say thank you enough for your support. See you soon!

The 10th Annual Lions Pride Shoot Preparations

08 Thursday Jun 2017

Posted by in Fundraising, News, Special Events

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If you’ve been keeping up with us at any point in the last decade, you know that early9th Annual Shootsummer is an especially busy time of the year for our staff. On the second Saturday of June for the past ten years, we’ve traveled to Milford Hills in Johnson Creek for the annual Lions Pride Sporting Clays Shoot.

Despite the fact that it is a one-day event, the staff has spent months preparing – registering shooters, enlisting sponsors, collecting door prizes and auction items, coordinating the day’s activities with the Milford Hills staff and recruiting volunteers. Now that the final week is upon us and all of our participants are signed up, we can work on the last details of creating signage and finalizing all of our station games and activities.

At the beginning of the year, we knew that this event would be different from past years without Dewey, but the fact has become ever clear throughout all of our preparations. It’s been impossible not to think of him as we continue to assemble the various elements of his favorite fundraising event. The Pride Shoot was his favorite fundraising event and something that he looked forward to year after year. This year’s event will be dedicated to his memory, and we know that he will be with us in spirit on Saturday.

Although we still have a lot to accomplish before the weekend, we know that everything will get done – it always does! We’d like to thank all of our donors, sponsors and volunteers in advance for all of your support. It truly takes an army to create and implement a successful event, and the Pride Shoot would not be what it is without all of your help.

Now, if you’ll excuse us, we need to get back to work!

See you on Saturday,
Lions Pride Staff

Share Your Love of Pride This Valentine’s Day

09 Thursday Feb 2017

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The most romantic day of the yearlions-pride-valentines-day is right around the corner. If you are young (yes, at heart counts) and in love, you have probably already started planning ways to spoil your sweetie on Valentine’s Day, but have you thought about how you can share the love of your favorite non-profit?

If you’re a proud Lions Pride supporter, we have a few simple ideas for you:

“Like” and share on Facebook

Non-profit organizations have recently found that Facebook is an exceptional way to share their message. You can help Lions Pride spread the word by “liking” the Facebook page and sharing it with your friends. Simply update your status with a couple of reasons why you love support LPEF.

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Volunteer

One of the greatest gifts you can give to Pride is the gift of time. Our annual shoot is the largest fundraiser of the year, which requires a lot of preparation. Volunteers help make the event a success. The 10th Annual Lions Pride Shoot will take place on Saturday, June 10. If you would like to get involved before the event, please contact us today. We could always use a helping hand.

Make a donation

Of course, one of the clearest ways to share your love is to make a special donation in the name of a friend or loved one. With your support, we can help educate others on the Lions Pride mission of becoming “today’s help, tomorrow’s hope.” Remember that even small donations make a big difference.

 

We are always looking for excuses to show appreciation for our supporters, and we think Valentine’s Day presents the perfect opportunity. Thanks to you, we have the chance to provide, preserve and protect the Lions Camp and other WLF statewide projects. We would not get nearly as far without your help.

From all of us at Lions Pride, we cannot thank you enough for your continued support. We truly are wild about you!

 

Thanksgiving Dinner Preparation 101

17 Thursday Nov 2016

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turkey-dinner

One week from today, we will be gathering around the dining room table, sharing our appreciation with loved ones and indulging in a delicious meal that we look forward to all year long.

Unfortunately, for all of your hosts and hostesses out there, they already know that there is a lot that needs to be accomplished in the next seven days.

Lions Pride thinks that Thanksgiving should bring along as little stress as possible, that’s why we’ve put together a preparation checklist with the help of Real Simple.

 

Weekend

To put yourself in a good place before the big feast, start planning your meal this weekend. You probably already have an idea of what side dishes and desserts you’d like to prepare, but now is a fantastic time to complete a full inventory of what you already have on hand. Create a list and act like Santa Claus (check it twice!) Consider dividing your shopping list into two trips to the unwanted stress that comes with forgetting something the first time around. Make your first trip to the grocery store.

Tuesday

Prepare all chilled items such as cranberry sauce and salads. Cover the dishes and place them in the refrigerator until Thursday.

Today, you’ll also want to determine when you need to start thawing your turkey. Typically, you’ll need to allow about 24 hours for every 4 to 5 pounds. Write a note or set a reminder if you would consider yourself to be the forgetful type.

Wednesday

Complete another quick inventory and take your second trip to the store. Once you have all of your essential items, wash your herbs, chop up the onions and celery and trim your remaining vegetables – pat them dry and refrigerate.

You can also begin assembling the stuffing and make the dessert. Begin thawing your turkey if you haven’t done so already.

Thursday

Today’s the day. Begin roasting your turkey and cooking your side dishes. When the turkey is done, make the gravy and assemble any last-minute sides and warm any dishes prepared the day before.

Lastly, sit back and count all of the blessings in life!

 

Remember that you are only one person. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from friends and family. Many will be happy to prepare a dessert or run to the store for a forgotten item. They want you to enjoy the holiday, too!

We know that a lot of work goes into Thanksgiving Dinner, but with a little extra preparation, you’ll be able to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with loved ones.

Happy Thanksgiving Preparation from Lions Pride!

Thank a Veteran with an Invitation to Serve

03 Thursday Nov 2016

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We know that we’re a bit early, but veterans-dayVeteran’s Day is right around the corner. In only one short week, we will be celebrating our veterans on the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month of the year.

According to the US Census Bureau, there are over 21 million living veterans in the United States. On Veteran’s Day, we all get a chance to thank these heroes for their service, but as Lions, we have an opportunity to go one step further. We can show our appreciation by inviting them to serve with our clubs and reconnect with their communities.

In July 2013, Lions Club International introduced the Involve a Veteran Program. From now until June 30, 2017, qualifying veterans will receive waived entrance and chartered fees when they join a Lions Club. Eligible veterans include all branches of the US military – Army, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard personnel who are retired or honorably discharged. The National Guard and Reserve personnel who were called to active duty for other training are also eligible. Learn more about the program.

You can invite Veterans to your club with these simple recruiting tips:

  • Exhibit at a Veteran community event. (Now you can see why this post is a little early.)
  • Invite veterans to help serve at one of your club’s community projects.
  • Leave club brochures at your local VFW. There are over 30 locations in Wisconsin alone; find a location near you.
  • Honor veterans on your club’s social media accounts.
  • Start a new club branch with Veteran members.

This Veteran’s Day, join the 700 clubs that have taken advantage of this program and given veterans the chance to continue serving as a Lion.

Happy Veteran’s Day from all of us at Lions Pride!