The San Pedro Lions Club celebrated its 51st anniversary on Saturday, November 7th, at the Lions Den. The event brought together current and former members, visiting Lions, community partners, families, and supporters for an evening of dinner, dancing, recognition, and reflection on more than five decades of service to the island.
The celebration honored the club’s history of community work while recognizing members whose dedication has helped sustain it. The formal program included the presentation of the Belize and Lions flags, the national anthem, an invocation, remarks from club and regional leaders, a message from the club’s first president, and a vote of thanks. Master of ceremonies Eiden Salazar guided the evening’s proceedings.
The San Pedro Lions Club was chartered 51 years ago by a small group of residents determined to respond to their community’s needs. In a prepared address read by Eiden Salazar, first president and charter member Pedro Salazar recalled that the founders came from different walks of life but shared a commitment to San Pedro.
“We were fishermen, teachers, businessmen, fathers, sons. We were not rich. We did not have much. But we had something that money could not buy—we had love for our community,” his message stated.
Salazar recalled that early members met under houses and trees, sometimes with only a lantern for light, and had no clubhouse, funds, or proper vests. Despite those challenges, they made a promise to serve the community. He credited past presidents, members, families, businesses, and residents with helping the club grow into what he described as one of the strongest Lions clubs in Belize.
San Pedro Lions Club President Rosalyn Tzib described the anniversary as a monumental milestone. She said the club has served as a cornerstone of the island through health services, eye screenings, disaster relief, youth support, environmental preservation, and community events.
“What you see is not just a service organization—you see a family,” Tzib said. “Every project accomplished, every family assisted, and every smile brought to a child’s face has been possible because of the dedication of our Lion members, past and present, and the unwavering support of our incredible community.”
Tzib also presented service awards. Chevron pins from Lions International were awarded to Pedro Salazar, Abel Guerrero, and Baldemar Graniel, each with 50 or more years of service. Anna Ico and Yevette Graniel received pins for 15 years of service, while Nesher Acosta received a pin for 10 years.
Lions Zone Chair Nigel Belisle congratulated the club on behalf of the region. “We are celebrating 51 years of service commitment, sacrifice, fellowship, and dedication to the people of San Pedro,” he said. He added that the club’s achievements should be measured not only by projects completed or funds raised, but also by lives strengthened, families supported, children encouraged, and hope offered to community members.
In the vote of thanks, Nesher Acosta thanked God, the club’s leadership, charter members, past presidents, visiting Lions, sponsors, families, and the people of San Pedro. “For 51 years, you have trusted us, supported us, and walked with us. This club belongs to you,” she said.
Following the speeches and award presentations, attendees enjoyed dinner, shared memories of the club’s history, and celebrated with live music and dancing.
Looking ahead, Tzib said the club’s mission remains vital as community needs continue to grow. She encouraged residents and partners to continue supporting its efforts to empower youth, protect vulnerable people, and keep the spirit of Lionism alive. As the club enters its 52nd year, members remain committed to continuing the service legacy established more than half a century ago.