From the Desk of Governor Corinna – May 2026
“Leading with Heart: Service, Empowerment, and Community”
Fellow Lions and Leos of Montana,
April was nothing short of a whirlwind across Big Sky Country, and what a great reminder of the power of Lions in action. From one end of Montana to the other, clubs were busy serving their communities in ways both meaningful and fun.
Easter Egg Hunts brought smiles, and a little friendly competition, to kids and families. Environmental projects during our Lions Week of Service helped care for the places we call home. And with warmer weather peeking through, Lions Park projects are ramping up all over the District. If you drove by a park, chances are a Lion was nearby with a rake or mower.
District 37 Convention – Columbia Falls
The highlight of April was, without question, our District 37 Convention held at Cedar Creek Lodge in Columbia Falls. Thank you to the Columbia Falls Lions as well as the Kalispell Lions and Kalispell Sunriser Lions for hosting the event.
What a showing:
- 125 Lions and Leos in attendance
- 40 Clubs represented
- 33 Montana Lions Clubs present — 57% of the District
That is something to celebrate!
One of the most inspiring parts of the weekend was our LEOs. Several gave up their senior trip to attend the convention. That kind of commitment speaks volumes. Even better, they shared their plans to continue their journey as Lions after graduation. The future of Lions in Montana is in very good hands.
A Little Montana Meets Aloha
Friday night brought a special celebration honoring Debra Weaverling and her Hawaiian heritage with a lively Luau.
The evening featured:
- Silent and live auctions
- Nearly $14,300 raised
- Proceeds benefiting Montana Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation and Lions Clubs International Foundation
And just when you thought it couldn’t get better, the night wrapped up with the incredible DLO 17-piece orchestra and a dance floor full of Lions who proved they can serve and swing.
Saturday: Business, Inspiration, and Learning
Saturday brought a great balance of Lions business and meaningful inspiration. We conducted nominations and elections for District Officers, held a special memorial service for 17 Montana Lions that had passed since we last met and heard outstanding presentations from:
- Miss Montana & Miss Montana’s Teen
- Leader Dogs for the Blind
Saturday afternoon kicked off with Speed Learning, a fast-paced and engaging session packed with ideas Lions can take straight back to their communities.
We also heard updates from Montana Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation, including their Side-by-Side drawing – in true Lions fashion the lucky winner was one of our own MT Lions.
Celebrating Service
The District 37 Convention concluded with a memorable banquet featuring an inspiring message from PID Deb Weaverling and recognition of several outstanding Lions across the District. Moments like these remind us why we do what we do.
Looking Ahead
If this year is any indication, you will not want to miss next year’s convention:
Choteau, Montana, 
April 16–18, 2027, Mark your calendars now!
Let’s Keep the Momentum Going
April showed us what is possible when Lions come together with purpose, energy, and a little bit of fun. As we head into the busy summer season:
- Jump into your club’s projects
- Invite someone new to serve alongside you
- Share your stories and impact
Because when we stay engaged, we grow stronger—and our communities do too.
Lead to Serve, and Serve to Lead.
DG Corinna
By DG Corinna Christensen
From the Desk of District Governor Elect Jon Kimble – May 2026
Montana Lions District 37
Invitation to Service: May 2026
Our Montana Lions are great assets to their communities! Our kindness and caring really add to the fabric of our lives. Our Single-District 37 is organized to broaden service and fellowship by dividing the large District into four regions. Those four regions are further divided into 14 Zones. A member from each Zone volunteers to be a liaison between the District Cabinet and the Clubs. For the coming Lion year, 2026-2027, we have several volunteers who have accepted the position. We still need a few more…
If you wish to help support our District operations, please consider serving at this level. It will be a great opportunity to connect with other Lions Clubs, and it can be rewarding and fun!
I extend a “Welcome Back!” to our returning Zone Chairs and a hearty “Welcome!” to the new volunteers who have agreed to help: They are:
Zone Lion Clubs Served
Zone 1 Rob Shaffer Hamilton, Missoula, East Missoula, Seeley Lake
Zone 2 Nick Ostle Superior, Plains, Hot Springs
Zone 3 Naomi Valentine – Kalispell, Kalispell Sunrisers, Eureka, Whitefish, Columbia Falls, ColFalls Mountain Branch, Kalispell Rising Lions Branch
Zone 4 Butte – Mile Hi, Deer Lodge
Zone 5 Tom Naegle Helena, Helena Gold Rush, Townsend (Broadwater), White Sulphur Springs
Zone 6 Neil Swift Cascade, Great Falls, Great Falls Sunrise
Zone 7 Jerry Kuhn Chinook, Havre, Turner/Hogeland, Fort Benton
Zone 8 Jack Preston Choteau, Conrad, Cut Bank, Fairfield, Sunburst, Sun River Valley
Zone 9 Rosemary Weber Baker, Glendive, Sidney
Zone 10 Scobey, Wolf Point, Culbertson, Nashua, Plentywood
Zone 11 Mark Manning Billings, Billings Hts, Forsyth, Huntley Project, Hysham, Shepherd
Zone 12 Big Timber, Joliet, Laurel, Red Lodge
Zone 13 Julie Bartos Bozeman, Bozeman Gallatin Empire, Bozeman Sweet Pea, Dillon, Ennis
Zone 14 Denton, Roundup, Winnett
As you can see, we still need support for Zones 4, 10, 12 and 14. If you are a member of those Clubs served, and want to contribute to our District Governance, please contact us. We have several goals for the year for the improvement of service across the State, so you will be a welcome member of the District Team.
GO LIONS!!
DGE Jon Kimble
By 1st VDG Jon Kimble
From the Desk of 1st Vice District Governor Elect Gary Lewis – May 2026
Montana Lions District 37
“Celebrating Service: Honoring the Heart of Montana Lionism”
The Montana Lions District 37 Convention celebrated outstanding service and leadership across the state, recognizing a remarkable group of Lions whose contributions continue to strengthen our mission of “We Serve.”
Presidential Certificates were awarded to Lion Jerry Kuhn, Lion Tom Naegele, Lion Cory Sena, IPDG Raleigh Peck, and Lion Julie Bartos. Each honoree exemplifies dedication in unique ways, from exceptional leadership and mentorship to hands-on service and unwavering support of district initiatives. Their collective impact reflects the very best of Lionism across Montana.
The Presidential Leadership Award was presented to Lion Jessica Fausey, recognizing her exceptional administrative leadership, long-standing commitment to the Montana Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation, and her outstanding work as 2026 District Convention Chair. Her attention to detail, positive spirit, and lifelong dedication to service make her a cornerstone of our district.
The Presidential Award was awarded to Lion Cheryl Lewis for her visionary leadership and extraordinary commitment to service and membership growth. Her efforts in promoting service reporting as the Global Service Team Chair and her decades of leadership have left a lasting mark on District 37.
A special highlight of the convention was the induction of Christine Lank, Council Chair, into the Hall of Fame. This prestigious honor recognizes her distinguished leadership and enduring contributions to Lionism, celebrating a legacy of service that continues to inspire Lions across Montana and beyond.
By 2VDG Gary Lewis
From the Desk of IPDG Raleigh G. Peck – May 2026
MESSAGE TO OUR LEO CLUBS
As we approach the close of another school year, it is an exciting and important time for our Leo Clubs. This season is more than just wrapping up meetings and projects before the school year ends—it is a critical opportunity to build continuity, celebrate achievements, and prepare the next generation of leaders for success.
First and foremost, every Leo Club should be conducting elections for next year’s officers. Leadership transition is not just a formality—it is a cornerstone of a strong and sustainable club. By empowering Leos to step into leadership roles, we are actively developing the future of Lionism and our communities. Maybe include them in your Lions Club New Officer Inductions.
Equally important is ensuring that newly elected Leo leaders are properly entered into the Lions portal as incoming officers. This step helps maintain accurate records, supports communication, and ensures these young leaders are recognized and connected within the broader Lions network.
At the same time, current Leo leaders should make sure all service projects and fundraising activities are entered into the portal. This is a vital step in telling the Leo story—allowing others around the world to see the incredible impact these young leaders are making and how they are helping build stronger, healthier communities.
One of the most meaningful ways to honor your Leos is to invite both current and incoming officers to attend your next Lions Club meeting, especially before graduation. This creates a powerful platform for them to share their successes from the past year and present their vision and plans for the year ahead. It also strengthens the bond between Lions and Leos, reinforcing mentorship and collaboration.
Take time to celebrate what these young leaders have accomplished. Their service, creativity, and passion are making a real difference in their communities. More importantly, their ideas and energy are shaping the future of our organization. When we invest in Leos, we are building a stronger, more vibrant Lions community for years to come.
The future is bright—and it is in very capable hands. Let’s continue to encourage, support, and celebrate our Leos as they step forward to lead.
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
LCI President’s Message-May 2026
President’s MessageLead to Serve, Serve To Leadwith International President A.P. Singh |
Dear Lion,
One of the greatest strengths of Lions is our global reach and support. As a Lion, you are part of an international network united by a shared commitment to service, with so many resources to support your service journey and help you make an even greater impact.
Being a Lion also opens up a world of opportunities to connect and serve with Lions around the globe in meaningful ways — by attending international events like convention and Lions Day at the United Nations (LDUN), exploring service travel opportunities, taking part in global initiatives such as our Weeks of Service and more.
We are here to help you lead, serve and thrive in your Lions journey — and when we work together, there is no limit to what Lions can achieve.
Together in service,
A.P. Singh
International President
By Lion Peggy Tobin
District LCIF Co-Chairs PDG Lary Garrison & PDG Mike Tobin – May 26
“The most difficult thing is the decision to act, the rest is tenacity”
Amelia Earhart
For those clubs that have requested grants, thank you for taking action even if it was not successful. PDG Mike Tobin and I can guarantee only one thing, if you don’t apply for a grant you won’t get one!
For those clubs that have not applied for a grant from your Lions Clubs International Foundation, why haven’t you? Are there no needed projects in your community? Do you think your club too small? Do you think your club does not have enough financial liquidity? Is your club unaware of grants that are available and what they can be used for?
#1. Every community has a need that a grant from your Lions Clubs International Foundation can and will help make possible. It will not be every need, but there is a need if you look hard enough to find!
#2. No club is too small, period! Grants have been given to the Winnett Lions (an ambulance), the former Broadview Lions (a Senior Center), and the Billings Heights Lions (a Habitat for Humanity House), to name a few over the years.
#3. Projects are not just club financed projects, but should be community financed projects. Half of the project cost may come from your Lions Clubs International Foundation grant. The reminder can be raised by your club, as well as community resources such as individuals and businesses.
#4. If your club is unaware of grants and how they can be used, why hasn’t your club requested a visit to your club by Mike or myself? Why hasn’t your club sent a club member to your District Convention to learn about what resources are available? Better yet, why hasn’t your club explored the needs of your community?
Grants are available to meet Environmental, Hunger, Vision, Youth, Humanitarian, Disaster, Childhood Cancer and Diabetes needs throughout the world, even possibly in your community, but only if you can identify and request them. WE SERVE, but only when a club identifies a need.
Service also includes financially supporting your Lions Clubs International Foundation. Lions members contribute the vast majority of money that is available for grants. Without the financial support of Lions here and around the world our philanthropic work would need to be cut back. District 37 receives vastly more money in grants from the Lions Clubs International Foundation than District 37 contributes to the Lions Clubs International Foundation.
Mike and I hope every Montana Lion will support the Lions Clubs International Foundation, no matter how large or how much you can give. As I have heard, give until it feels good, not until it hurts! Donations can be made with a one-time gift, a monthly payment, or in a will or annuity. Mail your donation to LCIF, 300 W. 22nd St., Oak Brook, Illinois 60523 USA, or go to [email protected] Fax 630-571-5735, or www.lcif.org, or call 630-203-3836 for assistance.
Yours in Lionism,
PDG Lary Garrison , 703 Conway St., Billings, MT 59105, 406-855-6997, [email protected]
PDG Mike Tobin – PO Box 408, Sunburst MT 59482, 406-450-2780, [email protected]
By LCIF Coordinators
Global Leadership Team – PDG Mike Collins-May 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.
|
By Global Leadership Team
Montana Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation – May 2026
Montana Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation Statistics
Please find below the statistics from January 1, 2026 to April 26, 2026:
- Applications Received: 12
- Assistance Provided: 2
- Total Cost of Assistance Provided: $3,998.04
- Applications Received From: Belt, Emigrant, Great Falls, Helena, Kalispell, Missoula & Polson
Montana Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation Fellowships
Foundation Fellowship: Foundation Fellowships can now be purchased by individuals. Foundation Fellowships are used to recognize outstanding Lions and other deserving individuals. The Board of Trustees of the Foundation endorses this Fellowship. The Fellowship award includes a lapel pin and a mounted certificate and may only be bestowed by a Lions Club on an individual or group of individuals with a donation of two hundred fifty dollars ($250) to the Montana Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation.
PID Fellowship: The PID Dave Hajny, PID Tom Lehman, PID Gary Tschache and PID Ben Apeland Fellowships are now available. The fellowships recognize the contributions to Lionism made by PID’s Dave, Tom, Gary and Ben. The new fellowships are a great way to provide recognition for a deserving Lion. Fellowships can be purchased for five hundred dollars ($500) to the Montana Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation.
Life Membership: A Life Membership to the Foundation, which includes a lapel pin and pocket card can be bestowed by an individual, group of individuals, Lions Club or can be purchased by an individual with a donation of one hundred dollars ($100) to the Montana Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation.
Memorial or Honorarium: Remember a loved one or honor that special person by donating to the Foundation. What better way to remember or honor someone than having your donation live in perpetuity? Your Memorial or Honorarium donation is never spent; only the interest earned on these assets will be used to further the purpose of the Foundation.
Thank you for your continued support of the Montana Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation.
By Montana Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation
Does Your Club Collect Glasses?
Used glasses can be dropped off in Great Falls at Floors and More, located at 920 1st Ave N, Great Falls, MT. Please place the following address on boxes of used glasses:
Lions Eyeglass Recycling Center,
9013 Mullen Road SE
Olympia, WA 98513
By PlusOptix Coordinator
Plusoptix – Lion David Falcon – May 2026
District 37 PlusOptix Update
Hello Lions:
PlusOptix has recently released the new S20 screening devices, and we’d like to see if your club would be interested in upgrading. Your current S12 machines will remain under warranty for the next 10 years. After that period, any repairs would be at the club’s full expense. The approximate cost of the S20 is $7,500. PlusOptix has offered a $750 rebate for your S12 in the past.
I will be attending a PlusOptix seminar this summer and hope to bring a total number of clubs that would like to upgrade to the S20 machines. This may allow us to explore potential group pricing or additional incentives.
We are also going to look into getting another grant to help with the cost of new machines.
If your club is interested in upgrading, please reply back to me no later than June 1, 2026.
PlusOptix screening totals for school year September 2025 to June 2026 – 34,206 students screened with 4,072 refers through April 2026.
Thank you,
Lion David Falcon, District 37 PlusOptix Chair
314 9th St. W., Kalispell, MT 59901; C. 406-253-1726: [email protected]
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