Most people join a Lions club to make a difference and help their communities. But here’s the thing — they end up finding so much more than they ever expected. So, what exactly makes being a Lion so special? We took a peek at our latest member satisfaction survey to uncover what our members love about being Lions. • 95% feel they are making a difference. • 92% enjoy opportunities for fellowship and fun. • 91% have a sense of belonging. • 86% realize personal growth and development. • 80% feel their self-esteem and self-worth are enhanced.While the data is pretty incredible, we didn’t stop there. We also talked with numerous members to better understand the joy of being a Lion. Here are just a few of our favorites:Terrence “Tebo” RichardsThistletown Lions Club Toronto, CanadaWhy He Joined: Tebo witnessed the power of Lions at work — people of all walks of life changing the community one service project at a time — and wanted to be part of it.What He Found: Tebo discovered that helping others has the power to lift his own spirits. “If I’m feeling a bit down or depressed and I go out and do something to put smiles on people’s faces, it gives me a warm feeling in my heart knowing I’m making a difference as a Lion.”Heidi HaiyingMelbourne Chinese Lions Club Melbourne, AustraliaWhy She Joined: Heidi started as a Leo while a university student living in Sydney. Ten years ago, she moved to Melbourne where she didn’t know many people. Having experienced the power of fellowship as a Leo, she knew exactly where she could make some new friends. So she joined the Melbourne Chinese Lions Club.What She Found: Heidi found an extended family in her club. “We spend a lot of time with each other. We learn a lot. We go through a lot together. And we have fun along the way. We attend different gatherings, have dinner and take short trips.” Most importantly, she discovered a close-knit group of people working together to make the world a better place. “Being a Lion has given me so many wonderful experiences and a great family.”Paulo CaceresPaiján Lions Club Paiján, PeruWhy He Joined: Paulo’s service journey began as a Leo years ago when his university professor encouraged him to join a club.What He Found: As a Leo, Paulo found it necessary to talk with authorities and others in his small town to get things done. This was a major feat for the once shy boy who was afraid to speak in public.“I found my voice. I discovered I have something to say to people. And I fell in love with the organization.” Today, Paulo continues to use his voice as a member of the Paiján Lions Club and as a university professor, inspiring future generations to find their way in the world.Raymond LohWerribee Lions Club Werribee, AustraliaWhy He Joined: As a young entrepreneur, Raymond had little exposure to the struggles faced by others in his community. That changed when his sponsor invited him to a Lions service project. Seeing families living in difficult conditions moved him deeply. From that moment, Raymond knew he wanted to be a Lion.What He Found: Raymond recalls making many mistakes as a young Lion but is grateful to the senior leaders who guided him along the way. And over the course of his 35-year Lions journey, he has learned how to be a great leader himself. “Great leadership gives us the confidence and courage to move past mistakes and grow.”Today, Raymond invites others to join Lions so they too can experience the benefits of membership and ensure the organization he holds dear continues to grow well into the future.Katie TownsendChristchurch Lions Club Christchurch, New ZealandWhy She Joined: Katie, who is autistic and passionate about raising awareness of neurodiversity, joined to support causes close to her heart in a welcoming environment. She loves being a Lion because anyone — regardless of background or skill set — can be a member.What She Found: Katie discovered a supportive club that embraced her talents and helped her thrive. She describes her club as “one big happy family,” where people from all walks of life come together.“My club has been really supportive and welcomed me with open arms,” she said. “When I started, I was quite shy. But now I won’t stop talking.”Watch this video to hear why these and other inspiring members love being Lions and how service has made a difference in their lives.