The Elizabethton Lions Club is in its third year of having a charter, and according to club president Nathaniel Hughes, the group is seeing growth each year.

Last year, the club, which has 40 people on its roster, brought in the most members in its district for a club its size, and Hughes feels that it’s the group’s welcoming demeanor that has drawn in so many new members.

“I think people come to these events because they want to create impact and have fun while doing so,” said Hughes. “Our club is really laid back and relaxed. We have a good time and enjoy seeing each other at events. I think that is why we have been successful.

“We want to create an environment where people are comfortable, and they feel like they are a part of something bigger than themselves,” added Hughes.

Lions Club is the biggest civic organization in the world, and through raising money with projects and fundraisers, it seeks to primarily help individuals with eye problems. The Elizabethton charter was started three years ago by Ed Gibbons.

“He went around door to door looking for pillars of the community to join and start up a club,” said Hughes.

Today, the Elizabethton Lions Club is looking for new members who are interested in making a difference in the community, said Hughes.

“A lot of people don’t know about our club,” Hughes said. “We are a new club that is looking for new members who want to give back and create some impact. They don’t have to feel obligated to join our group. But we would love to have visitors come and see what we are about. That is really our goal, to brand ourselves within the community. There is a lot of need in our community.”

The club hosts and puts on many events in the Elizabethton area with its next big event being Movie Night in the Park at the Covered Bridge Park in Elizabethton on Aug. 25. The event features music and a movie projected on a large inflatable screen. Concessions will be offered during the event.

“That will be a great time for the Elizabethton and Carter County community to come out and have a great time,” said Hughes.

Also in the works is a turkey shoot that will possibly be held in October.

The club meets at Beef ‘0’ Brady’s at noon on the second and fourth Thursday of every month. Anyone interested in becoming a member must be sponsored by a current member and fill out an application.

“Don’t just join to say you are a member of something,” said Hughes “If you are a member, we want you to be active and make a vow to be at as many meetings that you can. Those looking for an opportunity to give back should join the Lions Club.”