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.)

Please turn off the lights.

We have asked you to spend a few moments in darkness because this symbolizes the life of the sight-impaired. You are doing something the sightless do everyday of their lives. Hopefully, this is the only time you will spend in darkness. It is a reminder of the battle that the Lions Clubs throughout the world have; and why we, as Lions and Leos, serve our communities and neighbors who are sight-impaired, stricken, handicapped, or in need in some other way.

This humanitarian work would not be possible unless volunteers were willing to give their time and effort. Any member will tell you that this requires work-----work to which you will be assigned and which we will expect you to do. Lions and Leos work with a cooperative effort in which every member shares the load so that more can be helped.

(Light International Candle.)

(OPTIONAL)
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.
(END OPTIONAL)

Before you, we have lit a candle to represent Lions Clubs International. Many sightless people throughout the world have never seen what a simple flame looks like.

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.

I now ask for the following to come forward in this order to the International candle:
_________________, representing Lions Clubs International
_________________, representing all Kansas Lions
_________________, representing the local Lions Club
_________________, representing the newly formed Leo Club

(WAIT UNTIL THEY ARE IN PLACE --Give Lions yellow candle & Leo ________ a maroon candle.)

_______, please light your candle from the International flame and then light ________ candle from yours. ______, please pass this light to Lion President _____; and now Lion President _____ please pass this light to Leo President_______.

As this flame passes from candle to candle so does the spirit of Lions pass on to the new members of this Leo Club. (Make sure all candles are lit before proceeding.)

In the same manner, you will notice how the glow of one candle is increased as more candles are lit, just as the good that Leos are able to do increases as more members gather for a common purpose and how Leos ‘help light the darkness of those in need’.

Could we please have the lights back on, and you may extinguish your candles.

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 Fredonia Leo Club. Lions and guests, let’s give these new Leos a round of applause.

LEOS, you need to remain.

(The following could be used as a lead into the following portion of the ceremony.)

At this time, the pinning of the membership lapel button will occur, along with the presentation of the membership card and the membership certificate. Leo President ________________will be first, followed by the rest of the Leos. Pinning of the membership lapel button will be done by ______________________________, and presenting the membership certificate and card is _______________________. President Leo________ will then be presented the Certificate of Organization by Lions ____________________, which President Leo_______ will sign, followed by the other Leo members. After signing the certificate, Leos may return to their seat.

At the close of the evening, all Leos are to remain for pictures .

Leos, please come forward as your name is called.

Ceremony then proceeds as normal.