The Foundation For A Successful Year Begins Today

With club and district elections now behind us, it’s time to turn our focus toward the upcoming Lions year. The foundation for a successful year begins today—with clear goals and thoughtful implementation plans. Each club should take time to identify priorities, set achievable targets, and outline the steps needed to serve their communities effectively.

Strong teamwork within your leadership group is essential. When officers and committee chairs work together with a shared vision, clubs thrive. One of the best ways to build that strength is through quality training. Understanding individual roles and responsibilities not only builds confidence but also ensures smoother operations throughout the year.

To support this effort, District 36-O will host leadership training during the 4th Quarter District Cabinet Meeting on June 20, 2026, at the Mt. Hood Lions Clubhouse. This will be a valuable opportunity for incoming and current leaders to sharpen their skills and prepare for the year ahead. More details will be shared soon—plan now to attend.

As we look ahead, now is also the time to begin organizing summer projects and activities. Whether it’s community events, fundraisers, or service initiatives, early planning helps ensure success. Don’t forget the importance of publicity—let your community know about the great work you are doing. Visibility not only builds support but also opens the door to new membership opportunities.

Also, be sure to register for and attend the Multiple District Convention, May 29–30 in Springfield, Oregon. This is a great opportunity for learning, networking, and celebrating the accomplishments of Lions across our state.

Finally, remember to report your service activities through the portal. Every project matters, and every report helps tell the story of Lions making a difference.

District O April DG Message

Spring is a time of renewal, growth, and new opportunities, and it is a perfect season for Lions to continue strengthening our clubs and our service to the community. As we move into this new season, I would like to challenge every club in the district to add at least one new member. Each new Lion brings fresh ideas, energy, and additional hands to help expand the impact of our service. Membership growth ensures that our clubs remain healthy, vibrant, and able to meet the needs of the communities we proudly serve.

Another opportunity just ahead is our next Lions Week of Service, which will focus on environmental projects. This is a great time for clubs to plan activities such as planting trees, organizing community clean-ups, promoting recycling, or hosting awareness programs about protecting our environment. Even small projects can make a big difference when Lions come together in service.

We recently held an amazing District Convention, and I want to extend my sincere thanks to everyone who attended and supported the event. It was a wonderful gathering filled with fellowship, learning, and celebration of the great work being done throughout the district. A special thank you goes to the planning team whose dedication and hard work made the convention such a success.

Looking ahead, the Lions Multiple District Convention will be held in Springfield, Oregon, on May 29–30. I encourage members to consider attending. There will be many opportunities for learning, sharing ideas, and enjoying fellowship with Lions from across the state.

Together, let’s continue making a difference this spring through service, growth, and community impact.

District O March Update

As we enter the final quarter of the Lions year, it is a good time to refocus on what keeps our clubs strong. The months ahead are important, and our attention must remain on club health, meaningful community service, and recruiting new members. By staying committed to these priorities, we ensure our clubs remain active, engaged, and ready to serve.

Lions across District O continue to make a positive impact in their communities. I recently enjoyed visiting the Carlton Yamhill Lions Club, where I attended a club meeting and observed school vision screening events. These screenings highlight the important role Lions play in improving the lives of children and families, and I commend the club members for their dedication and teamwork. I was also honored to attend the Beaverton Lions Club’s 85th anniversary, a remarkable milestone that reflects many years of service, fellowship, and community involvement.

Our district recently hosted a Guiding Lion training program, bringing together 25 Lions from two districts for a day of learning and collaboration. The training was led by David Bartley, who provided outstanding, in-depth instruction focused on strengthening clubs and developing effective leadership. Thank you, David, for your commitment and for sharing your knowledge and experience.

Looking ahead, we are planning a leadership training program in May for club and district officers. This training will help prepare current and incoming leaders with the tools and confidence needed to guide our clubs successfully.

I also encourage clubs to begin planning for the April Lions Service Initiative, which focuses on the environment. Clubs can participate by planting trees, organizing environmental clean-up projects, promoting recycling and waste management, or hosting environmental awareness programs. These activities are great ways to serve our communities while protecting our environment.

Thank you to all Lions of District O for your continued service and dedication. Let’s finish this Lions year strong—together. 🦁💙

Holiday Reflections and Service in Action

The holiday season provided many wonderful opportunities to visit clubs across our district, and I am grateful for every invitation and warm welcome. During these visits, I had the privilege of witnessing outstanding community service projects and, just as importantly, enjoying the fellowship that makes Lionism so special. There is something energizing about seeing Lions in action during the holidays, when compassion and generosity are on full display in our communities.

One memorable highlight was attending the Portland Lions Club holiday party. The evening was filled with good cheer, laughter, and fellowship, and the entertainment made it even more special. We were treated to a fantastic performance by the Grant High School Bluenotes, whose talent and enthusiasm truly brought the holiday spirit to life. Events like this remind us how Lions clubs serve as gathering places where community connections are strengthened across generations.

Another especially moving experience took place at the Tillamook Lions Club, where members partnered with the Quilts of Valor organization to honor a 102-year-old Coast Guard veteran of World War II. Quilts of Valor is a remarkable organization made up of dedicated quilters from across the nation who create beautiful, patriotic quilts for veterans. Each quilt includes a personalized nameplate with the veteran’s name, branch of service, and years served, making every presentation deeply meaningful.

The quilt was presented in a heartfelt ceremony that recounted the veteran’s years of service, sacrifices, and dedication to our country. I have been involved in several of these presentations over the years, and each one is profoundly moving. Any veteran is eligible to receive a Quilt of Valor, and the experience leaves a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.

Partnering with organizations like Quilts of Valor is a wonderful way for Lions clubs to honor veterans within our membership and in our communities. Inviting local veterans to these ceremonies also creates opportunities to share Lionism with service-minded individuals who may feel a natural connection to our mission. I am always willing to share information and guidance on the Quilts of Valor program with any club interested in participating.

Now that the holiday sand bowl games are over, let us carry this spirit of service and fellowship into the new year, continuing to look for meaningful ways to serve, connect, and make a difference in the lives of others.

Happy New Year, Lions of District 36-O!

As we welcome a fresh new year, it’s a perfect time to renew our commitment to strengthening our clubs and our service. Membership remains at the heart of everything we do, and in 2025 we must continue focusing on recruiting new members while also retaining the dedicated Lions who already give so much of their time and talent. Strong, engaged clubs are the foundation of strong communities.

January brings the Second Lions Week of Service, January 3–11, and this year our focus is on Hunger Relief. I encourage every club in District 36-O to participate in a way that fits your community—food drives, meal preparation, partnerships with local organizations, or creative projects unique to your area. Every act of service makes a difference.

Later in the month, we will hold a Guiding Lions Training Program on January 31 in Newberg, Oregon. This training is an excellent opportunity for Lions who wish to support new clubs or help strengthen existing ones. If you’re passionate about leadership development and club success, I highly encourage you to attend.

Looking ahead, our District 36-O Convention will take place on February 21 in McMinnville, Oregon, hosted at the beautiful Evergreen Air & Space Museum. This is always a highlight of our Lions year—an opportunity to learn, connect, celebrate service, and build momentum for the months ahead. Registration forms can be found in this issue of the Lions Magazine, so be sure to sign up early.

Thank you for your continued dedication and for all you do to serve with kindness and purpose. Let’s make 2026 a year of growth, service, and Lionism at its best.

We Serve.

Holiday Greetings from District O

As we enter this festive season, we would like to extend warm holiday greetings to all our Lions members and their families! This is a special time for gathering with loved ones, celebrating together at club parties, and giving back to our communities through various initiatives.

The holiday season not only brings joy but also reminds us of the importance of helping others, particularly through hunger-related projects. Our next Week of Service, focused on combating hunger, is scheduled for January 3-11. It’s never too early to start planning how we can contribute and make a difference during this critical time.

We encourage you to support our local food banks and participate in sharing tree programs, ensuring those in need feel the warmth of our generosity. This is also a great opportunity to connect with fellow Lions and visit other clubs in our area. Sharing our experiences strengthens our bonds and reminds us of the impact we can make together.

Additionally, this is a great time to consider donating to the Oregon Lions Sight and Hearing  Foundation (OLSHF) and Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF). Your contributions help ensure they can continue providing the exceptional services and support that our communities rely on.

As you attend company parties or get-togethers with friends, consider inviting others to join our mission. This is the perfect time to ask people to become a Lion and help us spread kindness and service throughout our communities.

Wishing you a joyous holiday season filled with happiness, fellowship, and the spirit of giving!

Warm regards,
DG Brian Sauer

Community Service: The Key to Membership Growth and Stronger Clubs**

District O Lions Clubs have always been at the heart of service, making a meaningful difference in our communities. There is a direct correlation between clubs that have strong community service programs and robust club membership—clubs that are active in serving their communities consistently attract and retain more members. Our commitment to community service is also the driving force behind our membership growth and club strength.

**Service Attracts New Members** 
When people see District O Lions Clubs actively serving—whether it’s organizing food drives, hosting vision screenings, or supporting local families—they’re inspired to join. Community service provides visible, meaningful opportunities for individuals who want to make a difference. Prospective members are drawn to clubs that are actively engaged and making a tangible impact.

**Collaboration Builds Stronger Clubs** 
Working together with other community service organizations multiplies our impact and strengthens our clubs. Partnerships with local nonprofits, schools, and civic groups allow us to share resources, knowledge, and volunteers. These collaborations not only expand our reach but also introduce our club to new audiences and potential members, fostering growth and innovation within our ranks.

**Meeting the Challenge: Supporting Food Banks in Difficult Times** 
Recently, many community food banks have faced significant cutbacks in food resources, making it even harder for them to meet the needs of families who are struggling. Now, more than ever, District O Lions Clubs and our partners are needed to help fill the gap. By organizing food drives, raising funds, and volunteering our time, we can make a real difference for these agencies and the people who rely on them. Supporting food banks in this time of greater need is not just a service project—it’s a vital mission that brings our members together and shows our community what Lions can do.

**The Power of Leos Clubs** 
One of the most exciting ways to engage the next generation of volunteers is by starting a Leos Club. Leos Clubs offer young people a chance to develop leadership skills, serve their communities, and work alongside Lions. Engaging youth brings fresh energy and new ideas to our projects. Plus, with the enthusiasm and additional hands that Leos provide, we can take on even more ambitious service activities.

**A Cycle of Growth and Service** 
By focusing on meaningful service and building strong partnerships, District O Lions Clubs create a welcoming environment for new members of all ages. Starting a Leos Club not only helps us engage youth but also ensures a bright future for our organization. Together, we are building stronger clubs, growing our membership, and making a lasting impact on the communities we serve—especially in times of greater need.

*If your club is interested in starting a Leos Club in your community, I am available to help guide you through the process and answer any questions. Together, we can inspire and empower the next generation of service-minded leaders!

**Serving Together: Strengthening Our Impact Through Partnerships**

One of the greatest strengths of Lions Clubs has always been our ability to work side-by-side — not only with fellow Lions, but also with other community service organizations. In today’s changing environment, collaboration is more important than ever. By joining forces with local nonprofits, service groups, faith communities, and civic organizations, we can magnify our impact and reach more people in need.

In the past weeks, I have had the pleasure of visiting seven clubs and learning about the amazing projects they are leading. From vision screenings and youth initiatives to environmental improvements and community outreach, the dedication I’ve witnessed has been truly inspiring. These visits reaffirm that when Lions serve, they change lives — and when we work together, we accomplish even more.

A pressing area of concern in our communities right now is food insecurity. Across many areas, traditional sources of food donations are dwindling as economic challenges persist and supply chains shift. This is where Lions can — and must — step up. Partnering with food banks, pantries, and meal programs will help us fill critical gaps and ensure struggling families have the support they need. Whether through organizing collection drives, volunteering for distribution, or providing financial assistance, we can make a real and lasting difference. And by doing this we are visible to the communities we serve and appeal to individuals that want to join our clubs.

As we enter the autumn we will have our first Week of Service that will take place on **October 4–12** and will focus on **Mental Health & Well-Being** — an issue that touches every community and every generation. This will be a valuable opportunity to raise awareness, provide resources, and support those who may be struggling.

While we work to increase our impact, we must also focus on strengthening our clubs. In the past year, our district has experienced a net loss of 53 members. Bringing in new members is important, but retaining the dedicated Lions we have is equally vital. Through engagement, recognition, and meaningful meetings we can keep existing members.

Serving Together: Strengthening Our Impact Through Partnerships

One of the greatest strengths of Lions Clubs has always been our ability to work side-by-side — not only with fellow Lions, but also with other community service organizations. In today’s changing environment, collaboration is more important than ever. By joining forces with local nonprofits, service groups, faith communities, and civic organizations, we can magnify our impact and reach more people in need. It is also a great way to recruit new members. I recently worked a health fair conducted by a group of organizations involved in health initiatives and have 2 applications from individuals . We just need to ask.

In the past four weeks, I have had the pleasure of visiting six clubs and learning about the amazing projects they are leading. From vision screenings and youth initiatives to environmental improvements and community outreach, the dedication I’ve witnessed has been truly inspiring. These visits reaffirm that when Lions serve, they change lives — and when we work together, we accomplish even more.

A pressing area of concern in our communities right now is food insecurity. Across many areas, traditional sources of food donations are dwindling as economic challenges persist and supply chains shift. This is where Lions can — and must — step up. Partnering with food banks, pantries, and meal programs will help us fill critical gaps and ensure struggling families have the support they need. Whether through organizing collection drives, volunteering for distribution, or providing financial assistance, we can make a real and lasting difference.

As we expand our service, we also look ahead to new initiatives. The first Week of Service will take place on **October 4–12** and will focus on **Mental Health & Well-Being** — an issue that touches every community and every generation. This will be a valuable opportunity to raise awareness, provide resources, and support those who may be struggling.

While we work to increase our impact, we must also focus on strengthening our clubs. In the past year, our district has experienced a net loss of 53 members. Bringing in new members is important, but retaining the dedicated Lions we have is equally vital. Engagement, recognition, and meaningful projects — especially those done in partnership — inspire both new and long-standing members alike.

Beginning My Year as Your District Governor: Serving Together

As I step into the role of your District Governor, I am filled with a profound sense of honor and responsibility. This year marks a new chapter not only in my life but in the journey of our entire district. Together, we will strive to make meaningful impacts, foster community growth, and strengthen the bonds that unite us.

Serving as your District Governor is more than a title; it is a commitment to lead with integrity, enthusiasm, and collaboration. My vision for this year centers on inclusivity, innovation, and service. I believe that every member of our district holds unique talents and perspectives, and by working together, we can achieve extraordinary outcomes.

One of my primary goals is to enhance communication within our district. Transparent and open dialogue will ensure that everyone feels heard and valued. I encourage all members to share their ideas, challenges, and successes so that we can learn from one another and grow stronger as a community.

Community service remains at the heart of our mission. This year, we will launch new initiatives aimed at addressing local needs, from supporting education and health programs to environmental sustainability projects. I am excited to collaborate with clubs and individuals who are passionate about making a difference, turning our shared vision into reality.

A vital part of this vision is fostering collaboration among clubs within our district. By helping each other and sharing resources, knowledge, and support, we can amplify our impact. Additionally, partnering with other service organizations will broaden our reach and create opportunities for innovative projects that benefit our communities more effectively.

Leadership development is another key focus. Empowering members with the skills and confidence to lead will create a ripple effect of positive change. We will offer workshops, mentorship opportunities, and resources designed to nurture leadership qualities at every level.

As we embark on this journey together, I am reminded that success is not measured by individual achievements but by the collective impact we create. Let us embrace this year with optimism, dedication, and a spirit of unity. Together, we can overcome challenges, celebrate victories, and build a district that exemplifies service above self.

Thank you for entrusting me with this role. I look forward to serving alongside each of you and making this year one of growth, connection, and meaningful service.

It has been one of the greatest pleasures of my life to serve with my fellow Lions

"Often when you think you're at the end of something, you're at the beginning of something else."

By the time you read this article it will be June and I will be in the last month of my term as District Governor.  It has been one of the greatest pleasures of my life to serve with my fellow Lions, and I have enjoyed every minute of visiting clubs and learning about the amazing things they are doing in the community.  We are truly living the motto “We Serve.”

One of the highlights for me this year was our 36-O convention held in March.  It was an action-packed convention, and I am pleased that we had 123 in attendance, including some cub Lions, Boy Scout representatives and Lions visiting from other districts.  We had a fun LCIF fundraiser where we raised $1000 to go towards a Melvin Jones aware that we raffled.  We had three VIP guests: ID Bert Nelson from Minnesota and Lion Daniel Marney Elkins from Delaware, as well as Lars Hedbor, local author and historian.  All three were great speakers, and ID Berts and Daniel’s presentations were recorded and can be viewed by anyone at these links:

ID Bert Nelson:  https://youtu.be/41seGmsGNYk

Daniel Marney Elkins (AI & ChatGPT): https://youtu.be/RJchx_I_INg

I have met most of my goals this year, including visiting all of the clubs in our district.  I still have a few that will remain ongoing, including pushing for clubs to use public relations tools to promote their clubs; helping clubs learn about AI and ChatGPT to help grow new service and support increasing membership; and helping clubs use the Lions Portal to reports service and membership.  I hope to continue helping future DGs also when it comes to promoting leadership and succession planning.

One of the most exciting things that is happening is that I will be ending my year by chartering a new club, the first in the district in many years!  This club will be founded by a group of nursing students at Warner-Pacific University.  They approached our district wanting to form a club and are motivated to make it happen.  Things are falling into place, and I hope to have them official before the end of my Lion year.  My club, the Milwaukie Lions, will be their sponsor so not only do I get to witness a new club being formed, I get to be a part of their growth for years to come.  I’m hoping that as my duties shift, I can help clubs grow and possibly revitalize those that have recently folded.

I look forward to building on what I have learned and the relationships I have built this year.  This will be the first year in many years where I am not wearing so many Lions hats, so I am excited to help more in smaller, more meaningful ways.  I believe our Lions Clubs have a bright future, and I thank you all for your support this year.

The goal is to Working Together at a Local and Grassroots Level to Grow Our Service Through Membership Growth.

“The service organization that masters AI is the one that will last forever” - Lion Daniel Marney Elkins

The 36-O Convention had the pleasure of hosting Lion Daniel Marney Elkins, an international leader in teaching Lions how to use Artificial Intelligence.  If you would like to watch his presentation, you can find it here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RJchx_I_INg

He has sponsored several hundred new Lions and is working to help form LionsUSA, an independent group from the United States that is dedicated to recapturing the fun, pride, and unity that define our organization. The goal is to work together at a local and grassroots level to grow our service through membership growth.  The group is on Facebook if you would like to join:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/lionsusa

One of the ideas the group is promoting is the service carnival - a fun, interactive community event organized by clubs, nonprofits, or schools that combines the festive atmosphere of a carnival with opportunities to serve the community and raise awareness about local issues.

Step-by-Step Guide to a Stellar Service Carnival

1. Dream It: Define Your Purpose

• What’s the goal? Fundraising? Awareness? Recruitment? A mix?

• Tie it to your mission — vision care booths, food drives, etc.

• Get creative: “Carnival for a Cause,” “Servicepalooza,” “Fun & Philanthropy Fest.”

2. Team Up: Form a Planning Committee

• Assign roles: logistics, volunteers, marketing, vendors, sponsorships.

• Recruit Lions, Leos, local groups, and even that retired guy with a bounce house.

3. Pick a Date & Place

• Ideal: a public park, school lot, or community center.

• Check permits early, like, yesterday.

• Have a rain plan unless you’re cool with soggy funnel cakes.

4. Bring the Buzz: Activities with a Purpose

Mix carnival fun with service impact:

• Dunk-a-Lion: $1 a throw, proceeds to vision screening.

• Face painting by Leos (tips go to Backpack Buddies).

• Donation booths: canned food, eyeglasses, books.

• Mini health fair: vision & hearing tests, BP checks.

• "Try-a-Service": stations where people can try out mini-service projects.

5. Add Food, Prizes, and Flash

• Partner with local vendors or food trucks (who donate a % back).

• Prize raffle (thank your local businesses with awkwardly enthusiastic appreciation posts).

• Music, games, crafts, and a mascot if you’ve got one.  

6. Spread the Word Like Confetti

• Posters, flyers, and social media blitz.

• Get schools, libraries, and coffee shops involved.

• Local news and radio love a good community story.

• Incentivize shares with “free popcorn for RSVPing.”

7. Keep It Organized (aka Herding Cats)

• Volunteers need training, maps, and donuts.

• Make a layout plan. Like a real one. Not just vibes.

• Have a command post with first aid, water, and maybe a stress llama.

8. Follow Up with Flair

• Post photos, thank sponsors, and highlight impact: “200 cans collected! 50 kids got glasses!”

• Send handwritten thank-yous. Retro, classy, and weirdly effective.

• Ask attendees to join the club or at least come back next time.

Summer Is the Perfect Time for Our Clubs to Start Planning Late Spring and Summer Activities

Summer will be here before we know it and now is the perfect time for our clubs to start planning late spring and summer activities that help our clubs be more visible in the community.  Need some inspiration?  Consider a variation of one of these activities to kick your club into gear during the warmer months!

1. Host a Community Picnic or BBQ

• Offer free food, games, and entertainment, and invite local businesses to participate. Use it as an opportunity to share information about the club’s activities and upcoming events.

2. Organize a Charity Walk or Run

• Host a walk or fun run to raise money for a cause the Lions Club supports. Participants can wear club-branded shirts to spread awareness during the event.

3. Summer Blood Drive

• Blood donations tend to drop during the summer, so organizing a blood drive can be a great way to meet a vital need in the community.  

4. Sponsor a Local Farmers Market or Community Fair

• Lions Clubs can set up a booth at local farmers markets, fairs, or festivals to hand out informational materials, collect donations, or host a small game or raffle.

5. Support Local Youth Programs, Local Festivals or Sporting Events

• Lions Clubs can sponsor or organize events like youth sports tournaments, scholarships, or mentoring programs to support the next generation. Offer volunteers for events in your town—whether it’s a summer concert series, local parade, or outdoor sports tournaments.

6. Host an Outdoor Movie Night

• You can show a family-friendly film, offer free snacks, and use the event to promote the club's efforts in the community.

7. Organize a Clean-Up or Beautification Project

• Organize a neighborhood clean-up, park improvement, or community garden project, which not only improves the local area but also raises awareness of the club’s commitment to service.

8. Provide Back-to-School Supplies

• Collect backpacks, school supplies, and clothing for students in need, and offer them to families in your community.

9. Host a Talent Show or Cultural Event

• Organize a local talent show, concert, or cultural festival to showcase the diversity and talent of the community. The event can be a fundraiser or simply a celebration of local talent.

10. Create a “Lions Club Day” in the Community

• Work with local businesses and organizations to create a special event that highlights the work of the Lions Club. This could include special promotions or discounts, a parade, or community service activities.

11. Social Media Campaigns and Online Engagement

• Use the summer months to run a social media campaign that highlights your club’s activities, promotes upcoming events, or celebrates successful projects.  

By hosting or participating in these types of summer activities, Lions Clubs can not only be more visible but also build stronger relationships with local residents, highlight their commitment to service, and raise funds for future community efforts.

(Below is a personalized canopy the Milwaukie Lions created with a vinyl cutting machine and supplies from Amazon for around $200.  Reach out to DG Carrie for more details!)

Spring Break: An Opportunity For Service

It’s March, and while Spring break is a time of excitement for kids, many parents have to balance keeping their children engaged, work, and daily responsibilities. Our Lions Clubs, with our strong community presence and dedication to service, can step in to provide meaningful and enjoyable activities for local youth—offering both entertainment for children and respite for parents and grandparents.

Some suggestions, without breaking the bank:

Outdoor Adventures

Lions Clubs can take advantage of local parks, trails, and community spaces to host outdoor activities that keep kids active and engaged. Consider organizing:

• Nature hikes and scavenger hunts to encourage exploration.

• Outdoor sports days featuring soccer, kickball, or relay races.

• Hosting a “tool” workshop to teach kids life skills

• Fishing or gardening workshops to teach hands-on skills and environmental stewardship.

Creative and Educational Fun

Providing a space for kids to learn and express themselves can make their break both enjoyable and productive. Some ideas include:

• Art and craft sessions where kids can paint, draw, or make DIY projects.

• STEM activity days featuring simple science experiments or robotics fun (invite your local teachers to help!).

• Storytime or literacy events at local libraries, perhaps in partnership with local authors or educators.

Community Service Projects for Kids

Teaching kids the value of giving back can be both fun and impactful. Lions Clubs can involve youth in:

• Mini service projects, such as assembling care packages for food banks.

• Neighborhood clean-up events to instill pride in their community.

• Intergenerational visits to senior centers, where kids can play games or read to residents.

By hosting fun & affordable events, Lions Clubs can support working parents while creating safe and enriching experiences for children. These initiatives not only strengthen the bond between the club and the community but also inspire young people to engage in service and leadership. Kids who participate in Lions-led activities may one day become members themselves.

When Lions Clubs host family-friendly spring break events, they create a positive and memorable presence in the community. Parents who may not be familiar with the Lions' mission will see firsthand how the club makes a difference. This exposure can spark interest in joining or supporting the club in the future.

Spring break activities provide a win-win for Lions Clubs—serving the community while also strengthening their membership base. By increasing visibility, engaging families, and showcasing the fun and impact of service, these initiatives create valuable connections that can lead to long-term growth. The more people see Lions making a difference, the more they will want to be part of the mission.

Lions Clubs Can Play a Crucial Role When it Comes to Disasters

As I sat debating what I wanted to write about for my February column, horrific footage of the fires in Los Angeles was playing on the news.  Instead of dedicating this month to giving you an update on my club visits and district (I’m enjoying being DG, things are going well!), it feels more important to talk about how our Lions Clubs can play a crucial role when it comes to disasters.  The idea of disaster preparedness can be overwhelming, but here are a few suggestions of where Lions can start:

1. Community Awareness and Education

·       Workshops and Training: Host workshops on disaster preparedness, teaching basic first aid, CPR, and survival skills.

·       Public Awareness Campaigns: Distribute pamphlets, hold seminars, or organize events to educate the public on disaster risks and preparedness tips.

·       Emergency Drills: Partner with local authorities to conduct disaster simulation drills in schools, workplaces, and neighborhoods.

2. Resource Distribution

·       Emergency Kits: Assemble and distribute disaster preparedness kits that include items like water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, flashlights, and batteries.

·       Information Guides: Provide guides on creating family emergency plans and evacuation strategies.

3. Building Resilient Infrastructure

·       Safe Shelters: Collaborate with local governments to identify and improve safe shelters that can be used during disasters.

·       Community Resources: Invest in backup power generators for key facilities like hospitals and schools.

·       Flood or Fire Mitigation Projects: Engage in activities like tree planting, erosion control, and clearing debris in fire-prone areas.

4. Collaboration with Other Organizations

·       Partnerships: Work with emergency management agencies, Red Cross chapters, or other NGOs to coordinate disaster preparedness efforts.

·       Training Volunteers: Train club members and community volunteers to assist during disasters, including search and rescue or operating evacuation centers.

5. Supporting Vulnerable Populations

·       Special Needs Preparation: Develop plans to assist elderly, disabled, or low-income individuals who may need additional help during disasters.

·       Language and Accessibility: Provide disaster information in multiple languages and accessible formats.

6. Disaster Planning and Advocacy

·       Community Disaster Plans: Help create or review local disaster preparedness plans.

·       Advocate for Preparedness: Encourage local governments and businesses to invest in disaster readiness and infrastructure improvements.

7. Environmental Efforts

·       Climate Resilience: Support projects like building rain gardens, restoring wetlands, and planting trees to mitigate the effects of climate change-related disasters.

8. Fundraising and Supplies

·       Raise Funds: Organize fundraising events to support disaster preparedness programs.

·       Stockpile Supplies: Establish community stockpiles of essential items for use in emergencies.

If you’re still not sure where to start, reach out to your district Disaster Response chair for guidance and support.  We have some really great folks working on these committees who are willing to help!  During the colder and slower months, this might be the perfect time to talk about disaster preparedness and response with your clubs members.

By leveraging our networks and resources our Lions Clubs can be instrumental in building disaster-resilient communities.  These developing relationships also have the added potential to help us grow our membership numbers simply because Lions are the living embodiment of neighbors helping neighbors. 

We Serve.  Where there is a need, there should be a Lion!

Keep Folks Interested by Doing Service Projects.

Membership and service should be at the forefront for all of our clubs at all times- if we want our clubs to still exist years from now, we need to bring in new members from multiple generations and keeping them engaged.  But how do we do that?  Well, one idea is to keep folks interested by doing service projects.

Now that the highs of the holidays have passed, we’re entering into the winter months where the days are short and the nights are long.  A lot of clubs have just finished amazing holiday projects but are now struggling to find the energy or motivation to do activities for the next few months.  Here are a few ideas that won’t take a lot of time or effort but could have a huge impact on your community and attract new members.  Remember, there is no reason to reinvent the wheel when there are thousands of clubs doing fun and exciting things, so Google is your best friend!

Adopting a school (or retirement home, group home, etc): Collect and provide winter essentials such as hand sanitizer, tissues, socks, etc.  It might be possible to work with your local dollar store to gather donations.

Making scarves: use the no-sew method to keep this easy by buying yardage of polar fleece, cutting it into long strips and then fringing the ends by cutting into smaller strips and then knotting those ends to dress up the scarf a little bit.  This is a great project for a winter club meeting and be sure to bring sharp scissors!

A food drive: collect food items to restock the local food pantry.

Clothing drive: collect new or gently used coats, clothes, shoes, gloves, hats, etc.  Every community has a need, especially for the homeless population.  Seniors and foster kids also need support so contact your local social service organization to see where the needs are.

Luggage drive: Collect gently used luggage for children in foster care so if they move from home to home, they can have some dignity and luggage to put their belongings in. Few things are sadder than seeing a child haul all his or her worldly possessions around in a garbage bag.

Boxes of love: small shoe box size boxes with hygiene and other items.  These could be for the homeless, seniors or foster kids.  For a wonderful program that does this for foster youth, check out:  https://www.boxesofloveproject.org/

Host a Laundry Day:  gather up your quarters and work with a local laundry mat to help low-income folks do loads of laundry.  https://laundrylove.org/

 Host a seed exchange: invite community members to bring their leftover seeds and exchange with others.  Seeds could be labeled and divided into smaller packets so more can be shared.  This could also be an activity to help low-income community members learn how to grow their own food.

Host a book drive to support local libraries, little libraries and schools.  Addiction recovery centers, jails and prisons can also use books. 

Coordinate a phone tree to check-in and talk to lonely community members.

Kindness rocks: this could be a community wide service projects to engage families with children.  All you need are some river rocks and paint supplies to decorate the rocks.  This is a great resource:  https://www.thekindnessrocksproject.com/

 These are just a few ideas for winter projects, I hope you find some inspiration!

DG Carrie Bartley

Greetings from 36-O!

First off, Save the date!  Lions in MD 36 have an incredible opportunity coming soon, a special membership training that is now scheduled for January 13 & 14, 2025 at Keizer Club House.  Our special guests will be International Second Vice President Mark Lyon and his partner in service, Lion Lyn.  They will be here for both days and they are committed to helping MD 36 and MD 19 meet the goals of Mission 1.5.  Start making plans to attend and bring your club members!  Keep an eye out for more information and the registration form.

 As we come into the cooler months and the holidays, this is a perfect time for clubs to start looking at their club marketing materials and doing things to promote their clubs in their communities.  Clubs are encouraged to review and use the ideas and tips that can be found in the PR Manual: http://www.md36lionsclubs.org/public-relations

 GLT David Bartley from 36-O and I have been hosting several Zoom sessions to introduce Lions to the use of Artificial Intelligence and ChatGPT.  We are always happy to host more sessions, and these are open to ALL Lions.  If your club, zone or district would like to hold a session, please reach out.  We’ll cover Lions Virtual, ChatGPT (writing), Dall-e (graphics) and Suno (music).  Most of these have free versions but as an example, ChatGPT is $20/month and Suno is $10/month for a more advanced program.  A club, zone or district could sign up for one account and share the log-in.  A simple Google search will help you find other versions online that are free and most work basically the same. Google is also your friend!  There is no reason to reinvent the wheel where there are so many resources available to us online.

 (The graphics on this page were created in less than a minute using Dall-e and by providing a very brief description of what I was trying to create)

 Below are some links if Lions would like to explore on their own.  We have used these programs to create articles, marketing plans, fresh graphics and even songs for our Lions Clubs. 

Lions Virtual:  https://www.lionsvirtual.org/

 ChatGPT:  https://chatgpt.com/

 Suno:  https://suno.com/

 DG Carrie Bartley cell: 541-391-0767  email:  cls24@hotmail.com

It Is a Great Time to Start Thinking About Activities That Lions Can Do Indoors

As the weather turns cold and wet, it is a great time to start thinking about activities that Lions can do indoors in the comfort of your home.  There are a lot of resources available online but for those without a computer or internet access, a club could talk about some of these at a meeting in lieu of a speaker or program.

Some examples:

Lions University, which is a part of the USA/Canada Lions Leadership Forum, is a fun and engaging online program that offers classes on specific topics.  When you complete so many classes, you’ll qualify for a degree and if you attend a USA/Canada Forum, you can participate in a graduation ceremony where you will be honored by the International President.  The classes could also double as an orientation program for newer Lions. Check it out:  https://lionsuniversity.org/

The Lions Member Resource Center through LCI is a wealth of information that is organized by topic.  It covers everything from leadership training resources, information about our global causes, LCIF, helpful tools for marketing/public relations, and so much more.  You can go to lionsclubs.org and click on Members Resource Center.  Here is the direct link:  https://www.lionsclubs.org/en/member-resource-center.

Google is great when you need inspiration, for an activity, fundraiser, tail twister ideas, etc.  I use it all the time when I need help and by using Google, I find information from Lions clubs all over the world.  I have come across some really fun ideas that I would never in a million years would have on my own!

Finally, use social media like Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.  I know there is a lot of negativity out there about social media, but it really can be used for good.  For Lions related pages, you should check out the Global Lions Forum and the Lions Portal Group on Facebook.  Both are a wealth of information and allow you to engage with fellow Lions and staff at LCI.

When it comes to learning more about Lions, there is no need to reinvent the wheel. Use technology to help your club grow, in membership and leadership!

So why is this a big deal?

Hello fellow Lions! Several of us just returned from the USA/Canada Lions Leadership Forum in Louisville, Kentucky.  I cannot recommend this event ENOUGH; it is worth every penny and then some.  I would encourage all clubs to try to find funds in their admin account to help send one or two of your members to this yearly event that rotates around North America.  Next year's event will be held in Atlantic City, New Jersey, September 18-20.  Start planning now, you won't regret it!

So why is this a big deal?  Attending the Forum isn't just about attending training sessions, it is about networking and meeting Lions from all over the world.  Sharing information, learning from one another, getting new ideas and socializing is just the tip of the iceberg- this event is Lionism at its finest.  To give you an idea, we sat and talked with Lions from Canada, Texas, Wisconsin, Delaware, Iowa, California, Colorado, and more at the meals.

Some of the highlights for me:

Being surrounded by 2000+ like-minded people who want to improve and help their community is itself inspiring.

Learning Sessions that cover all kinds of topics- my favorites included the session on online fundraising and using Artificial Intelligence to help our clubs.  Lion David and I hope to have a Zoom training about using AI and ChatGPT. What you can do and how technology can save time and energy in promoting our clubs are impressive. Let me know if you'd be interested!

The guest speakers are always high quality and two stood out to me this year, the first being motivational speaker Sam Glenn (https://www.samglenn.com/ and https://www.samglennart.com/).  If you need a chuckle and a smile, I highly recommend you check him out online and on YouTube- he is hilarious.  The second speaker I want to highlight is Randy Pierce, a few Lions from New Hampshire.  When he was 22 he lost the majority of his vision within two weeks due to a neurological disease.  He talked about overcoming the odds with his guide dogs and how it led to him hiking mountains, running marathons and so much more.  He was very inspiring and a great speaker. (https://futureinsight.org/randypierce/)

I know the cost can be prohibitive, but I hope more Lions try to attend future Forums with some planning.  Dates for future events: September 18-20, 2025 Atlantic City, New Jersey, September 3-5, 2026, Memphis, Tennessee, September 16-18, 2027 Huntsville, Alabama.

As a multiple district, we are struggling to bridge the leadership gap among our members, and training like this is invaluable when it comes to the knowledge gained and being inspired.  For more information, please check out the website for the Forum at  https://lionsforum.org/

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions!  My cell is 541-391-0767 and my email is cls24@hotmail.com

What Building a Legacy Might Look Like

“Sometimes you gotta create what you want to become a part of”- Geri Weizman

Sticking with my theme for the year, I want to talk about what Building a Legacy might look like in your community.  Besides taking care of our current members and clubs, I think we can all agree that as an organization we need to grow and this means doing more to bring in more members of all ages. 

For those Lions that aren’t familiar with some of the programs at the international level,  Mission 1.5 is a four-year initiative by Lions Clubs International to reach 1.5 million members worldwide by July 1, 2027. We currently sit at around 1.35 million.  The goal is to better serve communities, make the world a better place, and grow the organization. The mission is based on the idea that more Lions means more service can be done, making the world a better place for all of us.

I know it can be hard to bring new members into a club and sometimes it comes down to this:  where the heck do we start?  Things to consider: what sort of legacy do you want to leave in your community?  What needs are there in your club?  Building on those two things, consider targeted recruitment.  Want to build relationships with public servants like fire, police and local government?   Consider partnering with them for a highly visible service project or expressing your gratitude by honoring them with a thank you event.  Does your club need help with fundraising and finances?  Invite someone working in banking, finance or sales to be a guest speaker to talk about what they do for a living and recruit from there.  Is your club struggling with public relations?  Invite someone from the local media like radio, television or publishing to be a guest speaker to talk about their industry.  Show them what your club is doing and invite them to participate or partner with you on a project or fundraiser.  Want to beautify your community but need help?  Reach out to local tradespeople, agriculturalists, FFA chapters and 4-H clubs to build those relationships.  Do you have a favorite cashier at the local store? Invite them to a meeting or a project.  Is the cost of dues preventing great people from joining?  Consider scholarships from your admin fund or creative ways to spread out dues payments. Lions should also consider reaching out to their local veterans to talk about how Lions serve their community and it is another way they can continue to serve. Folks don’t know what they don’t know, so do what you can to reach out into your community and share your Lions story.

One last thing to consider: as we leave behind our summer activities, consider planning a club open house or community membership drive, reaching out to those you engaged with over the summer.  Be creative!  Use social media!  But most of all, have fun.