Past International Director Lion Philippe Gerondal of MD 112 (Belgium) represented LCIF at the European Union’s (EU) Development Days in Strasbourg, France.

The invitation-only conference was led by European and African heads of state and discussed the world’s current development challenges and, more importantly, how governments and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) can better cooperate to solve complex problems. Currently, the EU is the world’s biggest donor of development aid and seeks responsible NGO partners like Lions.

Gerondal participated in several seminars and presented LCIF’s record of providing education and aid to youth, public health, blindness prevention, and disaster relief to attendees. “Now more than even, we as Lions need to further develop ties with the EU,” says Gerondal. “They know Lions are true humanitarians and volunteers with direct contacts in our communities and countries worldwide.”

Fellow MD 112 Lion leaders Council Chairperson Stephan Georges and Past Council Chairperson Jacques De Moor and PID Gerondal (photographed from L to R) presented lead EU Commissioner for Development, Mr. Louis Michel (center), with a Melvin Jones Fellowship to honor his ongoing support of Lions’ service.

Katharine Keller