The Fonthill Lions Club is proud to announce the addition of six new members to its growing organization, bringing fresh energy, new perspectives and a shared commitment to community service as the club celebrates its 81st year of serving Pelham and the surrounding area.
The new members join the Fonthill Lions at a particularly significant time in the club’s history. Following the recent partnership and land transfer agreement with the Town of Pelham, the club is entering an exciting new chapter while continuing to honour the legacy established by generations of Lions who have served the community since 1945.
For more than eight decades, the Fonthill Lions Club has been dedicated to improving the quality of life in Pelham through fundraising, volunteerism and community leadership. Funds raised through Lions activities support a wide range of local initiatives, charitable organizations, youth programs, community projects and individuals in need.
Beyond fundraising, Lions contribute thousands of volunteer hours each year to the events, celebrations and initiatives that bring the community together. From Canada Day celebrations and Summerfest to Christmas Under the Arches, Agricultural Night, food drives and countless community service projects, Fonthill Lions have been a familiar and trusted presence in Pelham for more than 81 years, helping create memories while making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
“The addition of six new members is an exciting milestone for our club,” said newly inducted Fonthill Lions Club President Steve Dube. “As we look to the future, we are seeing people from different backgrounds and professions stepping forward because they want to make a difference in their community. These new members bring fresh ideas, new energy and a shared commitment to service that will help ensure the Fonthill Lions continue to thrive for generations to come.”
The newest members include Harry Alexander, John Durley, Rick & Ann Van Hemmen and Doug & Janet Pankhurst.
The addition of six new members is especially meaningful to long-time Lion Fred Arbour, who has witnessed firsthand the impact the club has made in the community over the decades.
“Over my more than 50 years as a Lion, I’ve seen many dedicated individuals join our ranks and go on to make a real difference in our community,” said Arbour. “Every generation brings new ideas and new enthusiasm, but the commitment to serving others remains the same. It’s encouraging to see six new members stepping forward and choosing to be part of that tradition.”
Membership in the Lions offers individuals the opportunity to become directly involved in local projects and events while developing friendships with like-minded people who share a passion for giving back. Lions’ clubs are built on the simple principle that communities become stronger when people work together in service to others.
The Fonthill Lions Club meets for dinner meetings on the first and third Tuesday of each month from September through June. Meetings provide members with an opportunity to socialize, plan upcoming events, discuss community needs and hear from guest speakers on topics of local interest. The atmosphere is welcoming, informal and focused on fellowship and service.
“We often hear from people who are looking for ways to become more involved in their community but are not sure where to start,” said Dube. “Joining the Lions is a great way to meet people, contribute your skills and talents, and see firsthand the impact that volunteer service can have. Whether you have a few hours a month or want to become deeply involved, there is a place for everyone in Lionism.”
Reflecting on the club’s future, Arbour believes the newest members will help ensure the Fonthill Lions continue to thrive.
“The strength of any Lions club is its members,” said Arbour. “For more than 81 years, the Fonthill Lions have adapted to meet the changing needs of our community while staying true to our mission of service. These new members will help carry that tradition forward and I am excited to welcome them into the Lions family.”
Community members interested in learning more about the Fonthill Lions are encouraged to attend a meeting as a guest and experience firsthand the fellowship, friendship and sense of purpose that have sustained the club for more than eight decades.
For more information about the Fonthill Lions Club or membership opportunities, email info@fonthilllions.ca.
As the club looks ahead to its 82nd year of service, the addition of six new members demonstrates that the spirit of volunteerism remains strong in Pelham. By combining fresh perspectives with a proud tradition of community service, the Fonthill Lions Club is well positioned to continue serving the community for many years to come.
Pictured above from left to right are Janet Pankhurst, Harry Alexander, John Durley, Doug Pankhurst, Ann Van Hemmen and Rick Van Hemmen.