Lion Michael Harris Receives the Melvin Jones Fellowship

Past president, Dorothy Maynard, presents Lion Michael Harris with the prestigious Melvin Jones Fellowship. (Photo credit: Bob Reddick)

Westport Lions Roar

By Lion Bob Reddick

Two very deserving Lions have recently been honored, Marty Hawkins and Michael Harris. In separate articles, I would like to highlight these outstanding individuals.

Lion Michael Harris was recently awarded the Melvin Jones Fellowship, the highest form of recognition offered by Lions Clubs International Foundation. The Melvin Jones Fellowship symbolizes a commitment to humanitarian service and acknowledges individuals who embody the Lions’ motto, “We Serve.”

Lion Michael joined the Westport Lions Club in 2015 and has since taken on many leadership roles, revamping procedures to make club events more effective and efficient. He updated the Christmas Cakes for Seniors program and initiated an option for seniors to pick up their cakes at the clubhouse, thus providing them an opportunity to socialize.

One of the past problems with the operation of the Medical Mobility Service (MMS) was that clients were calling at all hours for requests, and not giving the dispatcher enough time to obtain a driver. Michael established policies and procedures for the service, including setting up an answering service with the Westport Telephone Company that allowed the dispatcher to receive messages via email. This significantly enhanced the MMS efficiency.

As club secretary, Lion Michael in additional to his regular secretarial duties archived past minutes and club documents.

He also served as president during COVID, navigating the club through a host of new challenges. While most clubs suspended operations during the pandemic, Michael introduced video conferencing to enable members to continue their service projects in the community. During his presidency, he facilitated various initiatives, such as cleaning up the old trailer park, and increasing the use of volunteers.

Michael has made significant contributions to the club in a number of areas. His willingness to take on projects and assist wherever he can, make him a valuable member of the Westport Lions. Next week’s article will focus on Lion Marty Hawkins.