Volunteers go through cold weather because they believe in their cause
Even on damp, cold days, the Ellijay Lions Club is motivated by members’ commitment to helping others.
“It’s for the families,” Lion Tamer Jim Harding said. “It’s for the children of Gilmer County.”
In this year’s rough economy, it may be harder for Gilmer’s neediest families than usual, he added.
He was collecting donations for the Lions Club outside the Ingles on Georgia Highway 515.
When he’s not collecting donations, Harding volunteers to clean the club’s grounds and maintain its building.
“I’m just one of the members,” he said. “I have several jobs.”
The work of the Lions Club depends on the generosity of Gilmer residents, he said.
Judging from the fact that in about 10 minutes, at least four passing drivers put money in his donation box, he has a lot to count on.
“We couldn’t do this without community support,” Harding said. “At the end of the day, this adds up.
Those wishing to join in this local charity effort can email the Lions Club at info@ellijaylionsclub.com or call them at 706 635-5901.
Harding was at one of the four locations collecting donations Friday, Dec. 5. The weekend of Saturday, Dec. 6, to Sunday, Dec. 7.
While the biggest Lions Club fundraisers take place at the fall Apple Festival, other events help raise money too.
“Everything we do goes back into the community locally,” Harding said.
Even if standing out in cold, wet weather for hours is difficult, the cause is worth it, he said.
This year, the money the Lions Club raises will go to several different causes.
Some will go to the club’s White Christmas fundraiser, which partners with Georgia Family Connection to provide food and toys for families in need, Harding said. Other funds raised will be used to help local people with Georgia Family Connection and about 30 other local charities.
People who want to apply for the White Christmas program can contact Georgia Family Connection at 706-276-2319 or email them at gcfc@ellijay.com.
None of the funds raised will go to club member salaries, because all Lions Club members are volunteers.
“We’re always looking for more help,” Harding said.
These days, the average age of Lions Club members is rising, Harding said. The club is in need of new members to carry its mission into the future.
“You’ve just got to have a giving soul,” he said. “Our motto is, ‘We Serve.’”