“We Serve” is not just a motto. It is the driving force behind the Lion’s Club Memorial. This memorial stands as a testament to the dedication and hard work of the Lions Club of Gibraltar.
The Lion’s Club began its journey in Gibraltar in 1974. Ernest Baddley met Joc Rosado. Ernest and his cousin Ray Smith encouraged Joc to start Lions International in Gibraltar. Some people were skeptical. They wondered if another organization was really needed. Others were enthusiastic.
Joe Rosado started to form a group. A UK member Adam Tredgest joined the effort months later. The idea was to create a club representing a wide cross-section of the community. The inaugural dinner was held on May 27th 1977. His Excellency the Governor the Chief Minister and other dignitaries attended. Bert Mason from Britain also attended. There were 25 founder members in all.
Today the membership includes professionals civil servants business people and tradesmen. They come from different religious backgrounds and ages. The Lions Club of Gibraltar has become a well-known local organization. Their motto “We Serve” means fundraising giving free time research hard work and fun. The Lion ladies have been active from the start and now form an indispensable part of the club.
The Lion’s Club has undertaken many projects to serve the community. They raised funds for scanner maternity units at St. Bernards Hospital. They constructed an ornamental pond and recreation area in Alameda Gardens. Also they built a garden and ornamental fountain at Gibraltar’s Referendum Gates.
The Club helps senior citizens and underprivileged members of the community. This includes redecorating homes. Providing food hampers at Christmas. Organizing an annual Christmas party for handicapped children. They also install refrigerators and water heaters. Additionally they host an annual outing and party for senior citizens and provide a message in a bottle service.
The Lions Club has also aided St. Bernards Hospital. This includes providing an oxygen monitor for the Paediatric Dept. They provided an operating microscope and an eye-microscope for the Eye Department. They also supplied a radio-controlled hearing aid for the Audiology Dept and an examination couch and orthopedic pillows.
The Club has supported Mt. Alvernia Senior Citizens Home as well. This includes providing wheelchairs. A hotplate and heated trolley for the kitchen. They also provided an ambu-lift and installed an emergency lighting system. General painting decorating planting and garden-clearance have also been provided.
The Lions Club built an outside recreation area and barbecue at King George V Psychiatric Hospital. They also provided special beds. The Lion’s Club Memorial stands as a symbol of these achievements. It is a reminder of the positive impact that a group of dedicated individuals can have on their community. Remember their motto as you reflect on this memorial. “We Serve”.