After three years as a “lion” at the Rome Free Academy, Ben McMonagle has now been accepted into the ranks of the “lion”.
McMonagle will graduate from Wells College in Aurora with a degree in Economics and Business Administration in May 2022 and is now a full Lion of the Rome Lions Club.
While still in high school, McMonagle became interested in the Leo Club through his older sister Abby. He attended a few events and enjoyed the service-oriented activities so much that he decided to join.
Upon graduation, McMonagle attended the Rome Lions Installation Banquet. After listening to the speakers and hearing all the good things the club was doing in the community, McMonagle said he knew he wanted to be a part of it.
“After my Leo ministry, it seemed like a logical way to continue doing good in the community,” he said.
Leo is an acronym that stands for Leadership, Experience and Opportunity. Leo clubs are a youth organization of Lions Clubs International and are sponsored by a local Lions club.
Leo clubs encourage youth to develop leadership skills by participating in social activities. Projects support the local community in the areas of literacy and education, children, health care, low vision aids and self-development.
The Rome Lions Club has had an active Leo club for 11 years. Establishment began in 2010-11 and the current membership includes 40 RFA students in grades 9-12.
Today the Rome Lions and Leos form a dynamic partnership.
“The Lions gain perspectives and insights from the Leos as the Leos gather wisdom and gain access to community connections,” said Tamalin Martin, spokeswoman for the Rome Lions. “Both groups benefit from each other, with the real winner being the local community.”
Ben was sponsored by zone chairman Victor Fariello and will later be formally inducted into the Rome Lions Club by PDG Milledge Smith.
McMonagle’s first Lion volunteer service was at the 20th Annual Golf Tournament Fundraiser at Sleepy Hollow Golf Club in September. McMonagle said he looks forward to many more years of service.
For those who have a heart for their community and are looking for ways to get more involved, the Rome Lions Club invites community members to learn more on their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/romelionsclub/.