In the heart of Milan, Italy, a small but determined group of Lions is taking on a unique service challenge: helping prisoners prepare for life after incarceration. A club branch of Milano Parco Nord in District 108IB4, Milano Evoluzione e Servizio has made it its mission to help individuals overcome the many obstacles they face as they reenter society.Milano Evoluzione e Servizio was founded in November 2024 as a virtual club, with Lions from two different clubs coming together to address underserved social issues. Inspired by a member’s experience as a prison volunteer, the group began to focus on ways to help people assimilate back into society after completing their sentences.Lions offer support“When people are released, they often don’t have employment or a place to stay, which can lead to repeat offenses,” said one of the club’s founding members, Adriana Marina Belrosso. “Many are starting over with very few resources — and that’s where we can help.”The club works to provide the dignity of basic human needs — connecting individuals with everything from legal assistance and health resources to jobs and housing. They conduct a needs analysis to determine how they can best help each person.“Two of our recent service projects provided participants items like sheets and towels, while another provided a ‘listening desk’,” Belrosso said.With the help of Milano Evoluzione e Servizio, the process of reintegration begins prior to an individual’s release. The Italian prison system has a strong focus on rehabilitation and welcomes groups like Lions to help people who are serving their sentences.Despite these and other support systems, there is still much for individuals to navigate both during and after incarceration. That’s when Lions step in.According to Belrosso, “There’s a lot of bureaucracy, so we help them understand the systems, work with the prison governors and help people get set up for success upon release.”Where there is need, Lions have the network, skills and heart to help.— Lion Adriana Marina BelrossoStrength in diversityThis dynamic club features members with various professional backgrounds.“We come from marketing, corporate communications, psychology, finance, real estate and other areas,” Belrosso says. “Each of us contributes something different to our volunteering efforts.”With such diverse expertise, club members have a wealth of practical knowledge they can draw from to connect soon-to-be released individuals with the people and services they need.The club has already seen success with its initiatives and has helped several former prisoners take vital steps toward rebuilding their lives by securing jobs and engaging in rehabilitation.According to Belrosso, this is just what Lions do: “It is difficult work, but since we are Lions, we get it done.”Looking aheadWhile the Milano Evoluzione e Servizio club focuses on a specific service area, Belrosso said they won’t stop there.“Every project that can help people is important to us: health screenings for children and adults, helping the hungry and hosting conferences on current social issues. We also want to inform the public about these topics and involve our communities in finding solutions.”And while the club’s current and future service presents more than a few challenges, Belrosso is confident in her club’s ability to make an impact in any service area.