An important part of our extension of service this year is caring for our environment. Our goal this year is to plant a million trees around the world. That’s less than one tree for each member. If we can accomplish this goal, it proves once again that we can accomplish anything – just like we did when we exceeded our goal for Campaign SightFirst II. Just like we did when we prevented over 1 million cases of river blindness. And just like we are going to do by helping eradicate measles.

Why trees? It’s no secret that trees help the environment, but you may be surprised by all the benefits that planting a tree can provide. Trees are like the lungs of the planet. They breathe in carbon dioxide and breathe out oxygen. They also reduce erosion to save soil, help preserve local water sources, and provide habitat for wildlife living under more and more stress. Simply put, planting trees in your neighborhood really is one of the best things you can do for the local environment.

Any of us can plant a tree. It’s a very visible and hands-on way for each and every Lion to make a difference. It’s also a great project to invite your community at-large to join your local Lions club in a collaborative effort. If we can plant a million trees, it will reinforce the limitless potential we all know we have to make a difference as Lions.

So make tree-planting part of your club or district activities this year, and invite your neighbors, friends and members of the community to join you. What better way to be reminded of our gift of service than to watch the trees you have planted grow year-by-year? Every month throughout the year, we will report the number of trees being planted on this Web site.

This year, special awards to recognize the outstanding achievements of clubs and districts involved in tree planting projects will be distributed. Also, several resources are available to help us reach our goal of planting one million trees. I believe that this year we will mobilize Lions around the world to reach this goal and truly make an impact on our environment.

Clubs and districts can use the resources below to plan and promote their tree planting projects. A list of contacts is also available for additional guidance.

Campaign Resources

• Call to Action Flyer: Get an overview of the Tree Planting Campaign – and ideas to jumpstart your project.

• Planning Guide: Use this step-by-step approach to organize your very own tree planting project.

• Press Release: Send a press release to local media to help publicize your tree planting project.

• Service Activity Report: Once your club completes its tree planting, submit information about the project using the Service Activity Report for an opportunity to qualify for “the Believer’s Awards.”

Wing-Kun Tam
International President