AURORA, Ill., Aug. 7, 2020 — Lions Clubs International has joined Kiwanis International, Optimist International, and Rotary International to issue “We Stand Together,” a joint statement to deliver hope and comfort during the 2020 global health crisis.

Arvid Meyer of Aurora, president of Aurora Noon Lions Club, said “These renowned service organizations leveraged the strength of their combined networks of 3.2 million members and focused their collective skills, resources, and ideas to support frontline health workers and first responders as they battle this disease and save lives.

“The joint statement was an effort to remind the public that, in times of uncertainty, local service clubs remain committed to meeting the challenge of finding innovative ways to take action together to help communities around the globe heal and thrive,” Meyer said.

In the statement, Dr. Jung-Yul Choi, Lions Clubs International President, 2019-2020, said “Great challenges test us, but they also bring us together. Lions are finding new ways to safely serve. Our Lions Clubs International Foundation has granted over one million dollars to help communities facing extreme rates of COVID-19, and additional grant requests are being received daily. Our communities depend on service clubs, and we will be there, supporting and strengthening them together.”.

Mark Daniel Maloney, Rotary International President, 2019-2020, said “The global effort against COVID-19 depends on actions taken in every country. As people of action, this is our time to connect with each other to offer immediate help to people in need.”

Adrian Elcock, Optimist International President, 2019-2020, said “The scale and magnitude of this global pandemic requires our world’s citizenry to heed the advice and cautions of the experts. The work and plans of our collective members and volunteers must not cease! Our immediate response after the crisis will be necessary to support local governments responding to the many social and economic challenges that will ensue in its aftermath.”

Daniel Vigneron, Kiwanis International President, 2019-2020, said “During these difficult times, we’re seeing everyday heroism across the globe. I encourage us all to recognize the health and safety professionals who are putting their own health at risk for the greater good. To the educators, grocery workers, delivery drivers and the countless professionals who can’t stay home, the Kiwanis family thanks you. We all play an important role in keeping our friends and neighbors safe. Please follow the advice of the World Health Organization, your local health agencies, and the instructions given by your Government. Please, stay safe.”

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Al Benson

Freelance Photo-Journalist

Al Benson is an Aurora-based freelance photo-journalist. He is currently an archives research specialist at Aurora University. His work has appeared in The Voice, The Daily Herald, The Beacon-News, and the Chicago Tribune.