Colin Powell Applauds Lions for Leadership in Volunteerism as Interest in Volunteer Service Grows

MINNEAPOLIS, June 25 CPowell-Lions-keynote
MINNEAPOLIS, June 25 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Former U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell, a strong advocate for national service, will commend more than 15,000 Lions volunteers from around the world and call upon them to continue their efforts to increase volunteerism during these difficult economic times.

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Powell will deliver the keynote address on the importance and value of volunteerism as part of the Lions Clubs International 92nd International Convention at approximately 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, July 8, at the Minneapolis Convention Center.

While Americans grapple with the economic downturn, volunteerism has experienced a surprising surge in part due to the Obama administration's new national service programs. Many Americans are finding a way to give back to their communities by donating their time instead of money. As the need for charitable programs rises, leading service organizations such as Lions Clubs International are offering a way to volunteer and help others.

"For the unemployed, volunteer roles can foster confidence, new skills, and professional networking while offering an opportunity to share talents and energy with others. During the stress of a recession, volunteering can lift spirits by involving people in helping solve community problems," said Powell, who founded America's Promise, a partnership of businesses, youth-focused organizations and community leaders dedicated to the wellbeing of young people.

Powell's support for national service will be familiar to the Lions who are known for their volunteer work to end preventable blindness. Today, as the world's largest service club organization with more than 1.3 million Lions in 205 nations, Lions serve their communities in a variety ways such as working with youth, improving the environment, supporting diabetes education and providing disaster relief at home and around the world.
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SOURCE Lions Clubs International