I am so very pleased to report that our efforts to Move to Grow continue to show very promising results. As we near the end of November, we are crossing a net growth figure in membership of plus 11,000 worldwide, with all areas improving over last month.
 
These are the best results in more than 10 years, and it's more than double the trend for the same period last year.  It's a truly wonderful early accomplishment. I'm especially proud of those DG Teams that contributed most to these remarkable results. 
 
To continue this momentum, I know many of you are working hard on qualifying for the Year's End Celebration Ginkgo Award in which I've challenged districts to grow the average size of clubs by either 2 or 4 members depending on your constitutional area by December 31st. 
 
Since some larger districts would need to have rather larger net increases, I have established an upper cap goal that I know these large districts can attain if they continue their momentum.   For your easy reference, here is a link to a listing of all districts and their Year's End Celebration Ginkgo Targets. 
 
My fellow Lions, the results in December will be critical to our year-end success because it's a month that impacts annual trends more than others. I remain very confident that we can continue our success. Why? Because I have heard from so many clubs and districts worldwide, and it's very clear to me that they are moving to grow. Indeed, they are stretching themselves to find new members in new places who will shape our future... moving in exciting new ways to communicate with the younger generation... and expanding their service in this time of growing global need.
 
But to carry our success into this New Year requires your continued leadership and your inspiration to the Lions of your district. 
 
I know you can rise to this challenge, and I know I can rely on you. But also know that I will be with you along the way, stretching myself and working harder than ever.
 
In early January, I look forward to recognizing those of you who achieve the Year's End Celebration Ginkgo Award.  I will share your success in a special email to Lions worldwide, on the LCI web site and eventually on stage in Sydney if you hold your results through June end.
 
Meanwhile, please continue sharing your success stories. I find them truly inspiring and important to defining the course ahead. I'll be in touch again soon with my December message and regarding the Lions In Sight PR campaign in January.
 
With Cordial Regards,
 
Eberhard J. Wirfs
International President   
 
MOVE TO GROW