3 Review(s)

This book features stories of service and how Lions International managed a global crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The impact of the pandemic challenged organizational activity at every level; Local Lions Clubs stopped meeting; districts cancelled conventions and training seminars; and the long-range planning of the staff erupted into chaos as travel ceased and the association grappled with confounding problems without constitutional authority to make the necessary adjustments. Through a series of in-depth interviews with over 50 of the association’s leaders across all levels, we see the value of collective decision-making, frequent communication with internal and external stakeholders, a willingness to be creative and adopt innovative approaches to problem-solving, and the embrace of social media and technology to bridge the gap between the organization and its global membership. Perhaps most important, Lions International as an organization reaffirmed the value of remaining true to the principles for which it was established: service to those in need. Despite the challenges, the resolve of Lion leaders and administrators, staff, and grassroots Lions to take charge of the situation and address the crisis head-on produced results that not only demonstrated resilience but signs of organizational renewal. The lessons learned by this global service organization are inspirational to those who view community service as a noble endeavor. In addition, the post-pandemic emergence of Lions International—as viable and renewed—serves as a positive example for other organizations who may face significant crises in the future.