The Lions Young Ambassadors of the 21st Century Award program is part of the Lions Opportunities for Youth initiative. The mission of Lions Opportunities for Youth is:
To provide the young people of the world with opportunities for achievement, learning, contribution and service, individually and collectively, sponsorship of activities identified as best practices in the field of youth development.
By example and through encouragement, Lions play an important role in fostering leadership qualities and community service commitment in young people. The Lions Young Ambassadors of the 21st Century Award program expands Lions opportunities to inspire and recognise outstanding youth.
The award recognises young people (suggested ages 15 - 19) for their outstanding community service involvement, leadership accomplishments, public speaking skills and scholastic achievement. Recommended for the district, multiple district and constitutional area levels, the award provides youth with an incentive to excel in service and leadership.
At the same time, the award program enables a Lions district/multiple district to challenge young people and provide resulting benefits for youth and Lions.
Benefits for Youth
The Lions Young Ambassadors Award offers youth these benefits:
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Encourages them to seek experience in community involvement, leadership and public speaking.
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Broadens awareness of community service opportunities and organisations.
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Sharpens interview and community skills.
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recognises the value of their achievements.
Benefits for Lions
The Young ambassadors Award offers Lions these benefits:
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Furthers the Lions motto, "We Serve," by encouraging young people to pursue community service involvement.
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Renew Lions members' enthusiasm and commitment to youth and service, through exposure to committed, enthusiastic young leaders.
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Strengthens public awareness of Lions and their youth and service initiatives.
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Introduces young people to future service and leadership opportunities.
Getting Started at the District Level
The first requirement for involvement with the Lions young Ambassadors of the 21st Century Award is a decision by the district cabinet to sponsor the award program. The award may be combined with other existing youth award programs. The district governor should appoint a chairman responsible for coordinating the award program. It is recommended that this Lion be part of the district's Lions Opportunities for Youth committee
