June 2026 Newsletter
The publication of the district newsletter is at the beginning of the month, but articles are posted all during the month. A second email notification mid-way through the month will be sent if there are additional posts to share.
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THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE!!
By Lion Peggy Tobin
From the Desk of Governor Corinna – June 2026
“Leading with Heart: Service, Empowerment, and Community”
Fellow Lions and Leos of Montana,
As they say, “the days are long, but the years are short.”
As I sit down to write my final newsletter as your District Governor, I find myself reflecting on what an incredible journey this has been. Serving as your District Governor has been one of the greatest honors of my life. The opportunity to visit clubs across Montana, meet so many dedicated Lions, and witness firsthand the impact of your service has been both humbling and inspiring.
The friendships formed during this journey will last a lifetime. Whether sharing a meal after a meeting, working side by side on a service project, celebrating successes, or helping navigate challenges, I have been reminded again and again that Lions are more than members of an organization… We are family.
One of the greatest privileges of this role has been seeing the pride each club takes in serving its community. No two communities are exactly alike, and no two clubs serve in exactly the same way. Yet in every town, I witnessed Lions identifying needs and responding with service that was exactly what their communities needed. From vision screenings and food/garden programs to community celebrations, scholarships, park maintenance, and countless acts of kindness, I saw the very best of Lionism in action.
I also discovered that many of our clubs share common challenges. We talk about attracting new members, engaging the next generation, empowering emerging leaders, and navigating conflict when it arises. These challenges are real, but they are not unique to any one club. The good news is that none of us face them alone.
Lions International and District 37 are filled with resources, programs, and experienced Lions who stand ready to help. Whether your club is experiencing the good, the bad, or the ugly, there is support available. Please don’t hesitate to reach out by going to MontanaLions.org. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but rather it is a sign of commitment to your club’s future success.
Before I close, I want to offer a special word of appreciation and encouragement to the Leo Clubs of Montana. You are an inspiration to all of us. Your enthusiasm, creativity, and spirit of service are truly exceptional. Throughout this year, I have been continually impressed by your willingness to step forward, identify needs, and make a difference in your schools and communities. The future of Lions in Montana is bright because of young leaders like you. Thank you for your commitment to service and for reminding us all that leadership begins with a heart willing to serve. We are proud of you, we believe in you, and we look forward to watching you become the next generation of Lions leaders.
As I pass the gavel, I look forward to supporting District Governor-Elect Jon Kimble, First Vice District Governor Gary Lewis, and Second Vice District Governor Gary Van Dyke. With two Garys on the leadership team, we may occasionally have to clarify which one we’re talking about, but I have complete confidence that District 37 is in excellent hands. Their passion for service, leadership, and dedication to our Lions family will continue moving our district forward.
As my term as District Governor comes to a close, my service to Lions does not. While this may be my final newsletter as District Governor, I look forward to discovering the ways Lions will continue to call upon me to live our motto, “We Serve,” in our communities and beyond.
One final thought. Throughout these years, I have traveled many miles across our great state, and I have come to appreciate something I’ve always known to be true: Montana is like one small town with a really long Main Street. No matter where I traveled, I found neighbors helping neighbors, Lions serving their communities, and friendships that quickly felt like family. While the distances between our towns may be great, the connections between our Lions are even greater. That spirit of service, kindness, and community is what makes Montana Lions so special.
Thank you for your encouragement, your friendship, your dedication, and your service. Thank you for allowing me the privilege of serving alongside you this year. May your journey be blessed with fulfillment in service, joy in friendship, and pride in knowing that the lives you touch truly make a difference.
With heartfelt gratitude,
DG Corinna Christensen
District Governor 2025-2026
Montana Lions District 37
“Lead to Serve, Serve to Lead”
By DG Corinna Christensen
From the Desk of IPDG Raleigh G. Peck – June 2026
Leo Club Advisor End-of-Year Reminders
With the end of the Lion year quickly approaching, here are a few reminders to wrap up the year:
- Don’t forget to report this year’s service projects, as well as next year’s Leo club officers in the Lion Portal. There are several resources available on the club leadership webpage for new officers.
- There are many awards available on the Leo Awards webpage, including the Leo Award of Honor. If you feel that your Leo club president should receive the Leo Club President Achievement Award, you may download and present this certificate.
- Lions Clubs International Foundation’s Leo Service Grant is available to Lion districts and multiple districts. Consider working with other clubs in your area to apply for the grant!
- Share this blog post on Leo leadership opportunities with the Leos in your club.
- Encourage Leos to continue serving as Lions and share Leo to Lion transition resources with Lions.
If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions for supporting the Leos of SD37, please reach out—I am always happy to connect and visit with all of you.
Thanks for all you do!
IPDG Raleigh G. Peck
By IPDG Raleigh Peck
The Lions 108th International Convention is Fast Approaching!
This notice will serve as a reminder that the Official Convention Call has been published in the LION Magazine in compliance with Article VI, Section 2 of the International By-Laws.
All Lions can review the 2026 Official Call and Notice of Amendments on the Lions’ website or the 2026 Official Convention Call and Notice of Amendments in LION Magazine.
2026 Official Convention Call
Convention Call In compliance with Article VI, Section 2 of the International By-Laws, I hereby issue the Official Call for the 2026 International Convention. The 108th Lions International Convention will be held in-person July 3-7, 2026, with some events available on demand after convention. The purpose of the convention is to elect a president, first vice president, second vice president, third vice president and 18 members of the International Board of Directors, and to transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting.
The 2026 convention will be held in Hong Kong, China — a city alive with energy and possibility, where towering skyscrapers rise alongside ancient temples and every street hums with life. From vibrant markets and eclectic cuisine to breathtaking harbor views, Hong Kong offers a sensory experience at every turn. It’s the ideal setting for Lions International’s biggest event of the year.
Over five uplifting days, you’ll experience dynamic plenary sessions featuring world-class speakers and entertainment, a captivating international show and engaging seminars. You’ll also explore a lively exhibit hall, celebrate meaningful recognition moments and connect with Lions from around the world.
Convention brings together fellowship, fun and learning on a global scale. Join us as we celebrate our impact and ignite our passion for the year ahead.
A.P. Singh
International President
Official Notice – 2026 International Convention, Hong Kong, China
The following proposed amendments to the International Constitution and By-Laws will be reported to the delegates for vote at the 2026 International Convention.
The following lists the three proposed amendments to the International Constitution and By-Laws that will be reported to the delegates for vote at the 2026 International Convention. Please click the link above to see the entire document!
ITEM 1: A RESOLUTION TO AMEND THE CLUB DELEGATE FORMULA TO REQUIRE PAST DISTRICT GOVERNORS GRANTED VOTING RIGHTS BY A DISTRICT OR MULTIPLE DISTRICT TO BE MEMBERS OF A CLUB IN GOOD STANDING IN ORDER TO VOTE BY VIRTUE OF TITLE.
(THIS AMENDMENT TO THE BY-LAWS REQUIRES A MAJORITY VOTE TO ADOPT)
ITEM 2: A RESOLUTION TO INCREASE SEMI-ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL DUES TO BE PHASED IN OVER FIVE CONSECUTIVE YEARS BEGINNING IN FISCAL YEAR 2028-2029. A MODEST, PHASED IN DUES INCREASE WILL ALLOW THE ASSOCIATION TO CONTINUE TO SERVE THE MEMBERSHIP BY MAINTAINING EXISTING PROGRAMS AND SERVICES AND INVESTING IN NEW INITIATIVES IN THE FUTURE.
(THIS AMENDMENT TO THE BY-LAWS REQUIRES A MAJORITY VOTE TO ADOPT)
(Note: Effective July 1, 2028 – through July 1, 2032 (five years), dues would increase by $2/year from the current $50 (paid $25 semi-annually) to $52 effective July 1, 2028, $54 effective July 1, 2029, $56 effective July 1, 2030, $58 effective July 1, 2031, $60 effective July 1, 2032).
ITEM 3: A RESOLUTION TO INCREASE THE TOTAL NUMBER OF INTERNATIONAL DIRECTORS BY ONE AND REDUCE THE NUMBER OF BOARD APPOINTEES BY ONE. IT WOULD ALSO REDISTRIBUTE DIRECTOR POSITIONS BY REDUCING THE NUMBER OF DIRECTORS FROM THE UNITED STATES, ITS AFFILIATES, BERMUDA AND THE BAHAMAS BY ONE IN EVEN YEARS AND ONE IN ODD YEARS; ADDING ONE DIRECTOR IN EVEN YEARS FOR SOUTH AMERICA, CENTRAL AMERICA, MEXICO AND THE CARIBBEAN; AND ADDING TWO DIRECTORS IN ODD YEARS FOR INDIA, SOUTH ASIA, AND THE MIDDLE EAST.
(THIS AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION REQUIRES A TWO-THIRDS VOTE TO ADOPT)
District LCIF Co-Chairs PDG Mike Tobin & PDG Lary Garrison – June 2026
District LCIF Co-Chair Mike Tobin
Dear Montana Lions,
Well, Spring has sprung, school is out, and it is time for summer fun to begin. Most clubs will have their last meeting this month if they haven’t already had it. The District’s LCIF fund raising has been a little lack luster this year as compared to last year. Our goal this year was to raise $51,378 and right now we are only at $38,453. BUT this Lionistic Year is not over and we still have the month of June to go.
Soooo, if each District member donated just $10, (1,519 members X $10 = $15,190), that would get us to $53,643, well over our goal!! As you can see a little goes a long way. More hands make work easier and our goals are easily attainable. I don’t think $10 is too much to ask for, for just ONE month. So head to montanalions.org, select “links”, Lions clubs international foundation, and click on donate to fill out the form. And if you are so inclined you could donate 50 or 100 dollars. Thank you!!
I want to take this time to thank PDG Lary Garrison for all his hard work over the years as he steps away from the District Co-Chairmanship Role. I also want to thank him for helping me and mentoring me when I started my role as the District Co-Chair. He made that transition really easy for me. I would also like to welcome IPDG Raleigh Peck to the team as he takes Lary’s slot. He will be a great asset to the team and I look forward to working with him.
Thank you for your past and future support for Lions Clubs International Foundation!
Yours in Lionism,
PDG Mike Tobin – PO Box 408, Sunburst MT 59482, 406-450-2780, [email protected]
PDG Lary Garrison , 703 Conway St., Billings, MT 59105, 406-855-6997, [email protected]
By LCIF Coordinators
Global Leadership Team – PDG Mike Collins-June 2026
Montana Lions Leadership News
6th Annual Montana Lions Leadership Retreat
Lewistown October 2-4, 2026
Dear Montana Lions,
The leadership retreat is a unique opportunity for Montana Lions to enhance your leadership skills, gain new insights, and strengthen the connections within our Lions community. Your role as an officer in your Lions Club is vital to the success and growth of our service and Lionism in Montana, and this retreat is designed to support you in that mission.
What to Expect:
- Inspiring Workshops: Led by experienced Lions, these sessions will cover effective leadership strategies, community service innovations, and personal growth techniques.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow club officers and Lions from across Montana, share experiences, and build lasting relationships.
Key Details:
- Dates: October 2-4
- Location: Yogo Inn, Lewistown, MT
- Cost: Free of charge for participants*
*Note: The free training includes double occupancy accommodation. If you prefer a single room, there is an additional charge of $100. If you wish to bring a spouse or significant other, there is an additional $50 charge (total of $150) for their accommodation and meals.
Thank you for your continued dedication and leadership within the Lions Club. I look forward to seeing you in Choteau for what promises to be a transformative retreat.
Yours in Service,
Lion Mike Collins, District GLT Leader
District 37 Montana Lions
By Global Leadership TeamClosing the Books, Opening the Summer: A Treasurer’s Year-End Message
Reflections on Two Years of Service
As June draws to a close, so does my second year serving as your Cabinet Treasurer for Lions District 37, Montana. When I took on this role in July 2024, I made a commitment to be a practical resource for club treasurers across the district, not just a title in the cabinet directory. Whether it was navigating dues questions, walking through LCI financial reporting, or helping clubs reconcile a confusing invoice, it has been my genuine privilege to serve alongside you.
Two years in, I want to say plainly: thank you. Thank you to every club treasurer who answered the phone, replied to an email, or showed up at convention and asked the hard questions. Thank you to our Zone Chairs and Vice District Governors who helped carry messages down to the club level. And thank you to District Governor Corinna, First Vice District Governor Jon Kimble, and Second Vice District Governor Gary Lewis for the trust and support throughout this cabinet year. The financial health of District 37 clubs is a team effort, and I have been proud to be part of that team.
With that said, there is real work to do before anyone closes their laptop for the summer. Let’s get into it.
Know Your Dues Deadlines – They Are Not the Same Date
This is the point I most want club treasurers to internalize, because confusion here is common and the consequences (good standing issues, and membership processing delays) are avoidable.
LCI International Dues: Due July 1
Lions Clubs International invoices your club for the coming year’s per-capita dues at the start of each fiscal year. For the 2026-2027 Lionistic year, those payments are due July 1, 2026. LCI dues are based on your official membership count as reported in Lion Portal. If your club has not reconciled its roster recently, do that first, so you are not paying dues on members who have dropped.
Log into Lion Portal and verify the invoice amount matches your active membership count before submitting payment. Discrepancies are easier to resolve before you pay than after.
District 37 Dues: Due January 1
District per-capita dues for 2026-2027 will be invoiced and due January 1, 2027. I will be in touch with clubs in the fall with specifics. That may feel far away right now, but your summer budget planning should account for it. Know the number, build it in, and do not let it be a surprise mid-year.
If you have any questions about either dues amount or how your club is assessed, reach out to me directly. That is what I am here for.
Year-End Financial Checklist for Club Treasurers
Work through this list before the end of June, or as early in July as possible:
- Reconcile your final bank statement for the fiscal year. Every outstanding check should be accounted for. If something is still outstanding from months ago, it may be time to void and reissue or write it off per your club’s policy.
- Verify authorized signers on all club bank accounts. Officers change. Make sure the departing officers are removed and incoming officers are added promptly. Banks often require an officer visit in person, so do not wait until October to start this process.
- Prepare a year-end financial report. This should go to your club board and be presented to the full membership. It does not need to be complicated, but it does need to be accurate: beginning balance, total income, total expenses, ending balance. Transparency keeps trust.
- File your IRS Form 990-N (e-Postcard) if your fiscal year ended June 30. If your club’s gross receipts are normally $50,000 or less, you are required to file the 990-N annually. It takes about five minutes at IRS.gov and keeps your tax-exempt status intact. Missing it three years in a row means automatic revocation. Do not skip it.
- Check your club’s standing with the Montana Secretary of State. Annual reports for nonprofit corporations are due by April 15, but if yours was missed or filed incorrectly, summer is a good time to catch up. Check your status at biz.sosmt.gov.
- Confirm your LCI dues invoice in Lion Portal and submit payment. Due July 1. Verify the member count first (see above).
- Review your club’s budget for 2026-2027. A budget is not just a document for the board meeting. It is a planning tool that helps your club avoid mid-year shortfalls and make deliberate decisions about fundraising and service spending. If your club does not have a written budget, this is the year to start one.
- Audit your club’s fundraising records from the past year. Were proceeds properly documented and deposited? Was restricted fundraising money used as intended? This is not about distrust; it is about protecting your club and your officers from liability.
- Confirm your club is bonded, if required. Some clubs carry a fidelity bond on officers handling funds. Check your bylaws and consult with your club president if you are unsure.
- Transition your records to the incoming treasurer, if applicable. If your club has a new treasurer taking over, do not just hand them a binder and wish them luck. Sit down with them. Walk through the accounts, the passwords, the filing system, and the schedule of dues and reporting deadlines. The best thing you can do for your club is a smooth handoff.
Looking Ahead to Year Three
I will be returning for a third year as Cabinet Treasurer, and I am looking forward to continuing to build on what we have accomplished together in District 37. Expect updated resources, clearer communications around dues and reporting timelines, and continued availability for clubs that need support.
My door – and my inbox – are open all summer.
If you have questions about anything in this article or about your club’s financial situation, do not hesitate to reach out. You can contact me through the District 37 website or directly at your Zone Chair.
We are all Lions. Let’s get to work.
By Lion Steve Dogiakos
Plusoptix – Lion David Falcon – June 2026
District 37 PlusOptix Update
Hello Lions:
PlusOptix screening totals for school year September 2025 to June 2026 – 34,934 students screened with 4,313 refers through May 2026.
Any club still interested in purchasing an S20 PlusOptix screener, please let me know ASAP.
Stay safe out there!
Lion David Falcon, District 37 PlusOptix Chair
314 9th St. W., Kalispell, MT 59901; C. 406-253-1726: [email protected]
By PlusOptix CoordinatorSpecial Notices – June 2026
For Club Secretaries
ALL 2026-27 CLUB OFFICERS MUST BE ENTERED INTO THE LION PORTAL!!
PLEASE REMEMBER THAT ALL LIONS CLUBS OFFICERS FOR THE 2026-27 YEAR MUST BE REPORTED TO LCI EVEN IF NONE OF YOUR OFFICERS HAVE CHANGED! PLEASE REFER TO THE EMAIL THAT YOU RECEIVED FROM LION PEGGY TOBIN ON MAY 18, 2026.
THERE ARE TWO METHODS AVAILABLE FOR COMPLETING THIS TASK:
1. Log into the Lion Portal and complete the process online (see the short Lion Portal video on montanalions.org – “Club Management – How to Assign an Officer”).
2. Complete a paper PU101 document available at montanalions.org and send it via email or regular mail to the district secretary, Peggy Tobin, at [email protected] or PO Box 408, Sunburst MT 59482.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS REGARDING THIS PROCESS, PLEASE CALL PEGGY TOBIN AT 406-461-4206!!
For Club Treasurers
Please remember that all Lions clubs with annual gross receipts less than US$50,000 that are not required to file Forms 990 or 990-EZ must file the e-Postcard (also known as the 990-N). Please be advised this filing relates specifically to the 501(c)(4). If your Lions club has a foundation, which is a separate legal entity, the appropriate form will need to be filed as well. If you are unfamiliar with this process, please see the short video noted below.
District 37 Club Officer Training Videos
These videos are all accessible via the district website, www.montanalions.org under “Training/Resources”:
- All Club officers: Trainer PDG Mike Collins
- Club President: Trainer PDG Mike Tobin
- Club Secretary: Trainer Lion Peggy Tobin
- Club Treasurer: Trainer PDG Mike Collins
Short videos about how to do specific secretary or treasurer tasks:
Filing your 990-N (e-Postcard) (9 minutes)
With the release of the new LionPortal, we have added links to some of the short videos provided by LCI (please note that these were recorded prior to updates that have made changes to the “look” of the pages – but the blue boxes are still there:
Newsletter Information
Any Lions club member can submit information associated with any type of Lions project or general club information. You can submit Club News ANYTIME! You are also welcome to email your news (hopefully with photo) to: Lion Peggy Tobin at [email protected].
Website Updates
In Addition to the “Tri-Fold Generator” for clubs to create their own club brochures, additional documents have been added including Leo Application forms and Club Service Project Ideas. If you have trouble finding a resource and it’s not currently available on the website, please contact Peggy Tobin at [email protected] or call 406-461-4206.
Free Club Websites!
The club-level website is still being offered by Montana District 37 at NO COST! If you don’t already have a domain name, Deanna can provide one for a cost of $20/year after the first year. If you are interested in getting a website for your club, please contact Peggy Tobin at [email protected] or call 406-461-4206.
Dates to Remember – June 2026
MAY CLUB ANNIVERSARIES
134 years of service!!!
Whitefish – 06/01/2009
Winnett – 06/05/1991
White Sulphur Springs – 06/17/1985
Turner Hogeland – 06/30/1985
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
UPCOMING DISTRICT MEETING DATES
MT Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation – July 12, 2026 @ 10:00 at the MT School for the Deaf and the Blind, Great Falls, MT
District Cabinet Meeting – July 12, 2026 @ noon at the MT School for the Deaf and the Blind, Great Falls, MT LUNCH WILL BE PROVIDED
LIONS CLUB INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION SCHEDULE
2026 Hong Kong – Jul 3-7
(See 2026 Official Convention Call – Page 5)
2027 Washington DC – July 2-6
2028 Singapore -June 23-27
2029 Minneapolis, MN
2030 San Antonio TX
2031 – Helsinki Finland
UPCOMING USA/CANADA FORUMS
USA/CANADA LIONS LEADERSHIP FORUMS CAN BE RELATED TO ALL AREAS OF YOUR LIFE – NOT JUST LIONS
2026 Memphis TN-50th Annual!! – September 3 – 5
2027 Huntsville, AB – September 16-18
2028 Grand Rapids, MI – To be announced
2029 Shreveport, LA – To be announced
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