I will now call the names of the new members, and as I do, I would request that they rise and come forward--lining up from my __________, staying in order.

(Call the names. When all members are standing, proceed.)

Today’s International Leo Club Program began with a single Club at a high school in Glenside, Pennsylvania, in 1957. Established as an activity of the Glenside Lions Club, the total membership of this newly found club consisted of the Abington High School Baseball Team.

Leo Club founders James Graver and William Ernst, believed Lions Clubs should introduce young people to the values of service to the community. Leo Clubs were expected to serve the community by responding to the needs and welfare of others.

Leo Clubs did not achieve immediate success. The second Leo Club was not organized until 1963. In 1964, Leo Clubs became an official district project, and thereafter, the growth of new clubs spread quickly in Pennsylvania. In 1967, the International Association of Lions Clubs adopted LEO Clubs as an official worldwide Program.

The original Leo motto read: LEADERSHIP, EQUALITY, OPPORTUNITY. However, equality was extended only to male students. Young women did not have the opportunity to develop their leadership skills. Today young people of every race, gender and creed can enjoy the benefits of Leo Club membership. Hence the new motto: LEADERSHIP, EXPERIENCE, OPPORTUNITY.

On behalf of those present, I welcome you as a charter member of the ________ Leo Club. You have been invited to become members, and we are all happy and proud of your decision to accept.

Membership in a Leo Club is a privilege. You are about to enter a program that extends throughout the world. Leo goals include high moral standards, personal responsibility, an attitude of cheerfulness and understanding, and in addition, extending a helping hand to those in need.

Now, in your own community and with your own acquaintances, an entire series of challenges await. You are not alone in your efforts. At all times, you can count on the encouragement and cooperation of your fellow Leo Club members, officers, and the Leo Club Advisors. They will be happy to help you achieve the high goals which you have adopted. Once again, we express our congratulations to you for having joined this Club.

LEOS, I now ask that you repeat after me the obligation of membership:

I ---- PLEASE STATE YOUR NAME ---take on this solemn obligation-- --to abide by the constitution----and bylaws of this club----to attend all meetings regularly----to support and further----the interests of the Club----in all its undertakings----and to contribute my fair share----towards the financial support of the Club.----I further declare----that I will assist in maintaining----building----and strengthening---- the membership of the Club.----That I will help the club----by actively serving on committees----and in other capacities----where my efforts are needed.----And finally----that I will develop in myself----those qualities of---- cheerfulness----service----and loyalty----which should characterize----a Leo Club member at all times.

You are now members of the Ulysses Leo Club. Lions and guests, let’s give these new Leos a round of applause.

LEOS, you need to remain.