Paignton Lions Club was formed in 1971 by a group of like-minded people wishing to help in their community. With the support of local people in Paignton and the surrounding Torbay area we have retained the original aims and continue to assist those in need.
On the 13th January 1974 the club formally registered a "Declaration of Trust", establishing and applying an account exclusively for charitable purposes. In other words an account registered with the Charity Commission - No. 269745. The Lions Club itself is not a charity. Our trustees are club members
Over the years members have changed but help to the community has remained constant, from the running of a community centre, providing transport for people with disabilities, equipment for hospitals, schools, playgroups, etc. and many individual cases of need. We have no fixed criteria but judge each request we meet on it's own merits.
Whilst we have helped in the case of major disasters (building a school in Sri Lanka within six weeks following a tsunami) we aim to spend locally as our finance is raised from the general public. Perhaps one of our best known events is the annnual Boxing Day "Walk-in-to-the-Sea on Paignton seafront. 2011 saw us celebrating the 36th "walk".
Since 2003 we have been giving free containers for storing personal information in your home where the Emergency Services can immediately find it. Known nationwide as "Message in a Bottle" we have handed out over 20,000 to members of the public. A partnership with Torbay Care Trust has enabled us to reach a wider group. (More info Under "Club Projects")
So! Who are the "Lions"? Quite simply ordinary people enjoying working together to help in the community. We give something back and, at the same time, have fun and fellowship amongst friends. Being a member provides the opportunity to help other people in a way no one person could do alone. We hold regular social events for members and partners in and around the local area.
Popular Misconceptions: We are not a Football or Rugby Club. We are not a Religious Group. There are no political affiliations. We are not an exclusive group of professional business people.
If helping someone less fortunate than yourself appeals to you, yet you do not wish to make a commitment to membership we have formed a "Friends of Paignton Lions" group. We keep you informed about projects, etc. There are no meetings to attend and you can be involved as much or as little as you feel able.
Formal monthly meetings are held on the 2nd Monday of each month 7.30pm for 8.00pm at the Preston Conservative Club. They are serious but they are fun. Visitors attend by invitation only
If you are interested and would like to know more why not call us on 01803 322379
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