During a three-month stay in North Carolina, USA, Lions Manjula and Upendra Jain from Kota Lions Club, District 3233-E2 experienced firsthand how service and fellowship transcend borders. Their time abroad was not defined only by landmarks or itineraries but by the shared ideals of Lions Clubs International. Motivated by a desire to stay connected to the Lions spirit, they reached out to several clubs in the region before their arrival.
During a three-month stay in North Carolina, USA, Lions Manjula and Upendra Jain from Kota Lions Club, District 3233-E2 experienced firsthand how service and fellowship transcend borders. Their time abroad was not defined only by landmarks or itineraries but by the shared ideals of Lions Clubs International. Motivated by a desire to stay connected to the Lions spirit, they reached out to several clubs in the region before their arrival.
“We didn’t want the time abroad to be a pause in our service,” recalls Lion Manjula Jain. “We saw it as an opportunity to build bridges through Lions fellowship.”
Their first response came from the North Raleigh Lions Club. Club President Bob Fehling and Secretary Shirley replied warmly and invited them to attend a meeting. There, the Jains met PDG Ron Beltran and were introduced to the club’s work. That particular meeting included a thoughtful presentation on mental health counseling for children. The Jains shared stories of impactful service projects from India, including eye camps, eye and body donation drives, and free cataract surgeries. They also presented Lions pins from their multiple and their district, which were received with genuine appreciation.
Further interactions followed with the Lions Clubs of Apex and North Carolina, one of the oldest in the region, established in 1937. “The club impressed us with its discipline, dedication, and the invaluable experience of its senior members,” says Lion Manjula.
Each club they visited had its own rhythm, but one thing remained consistent—structure. Meetings were planned well in advance with clear communication, and every session featured a guest speaker. At the Apex Lions Club, the Jains attended a presentation on drone technology, which was both accessible and informative. Once again, they were invited to share insights about Lions work in India.
Another highlight was their participation in an eye screening camp during the Apex town fair. The local club had set up a public eye check-up drive, and in some areas, food distribution was also carried out. The Jains volunteered alongside local members, and the spirit of shared service made it a meaningful exchange.
“The discipline and organization were remarkable,” Lion Manjula noted. “Every meeting enriched members with valuable knowledge that directly supported their service work.”
Throughout their time in North Carolina, the couple found themselves not just welcomed but genuinely embraced. The local Lions were moved by the stories of service in India and expressed interest in visiting. It was a reminder that Lions may wear different pins, but they share a common purpose.
For the Jains, this was more than an exchange—it was a reaffirmation of global solidarity. Through shared values and small acts of connection, they witnessed how We Serve continues to bring people together, across continents and cultures.
~ With inputs from: Manjula Jain
Kota Lions Club, District 3233-E2