Lions Clubs of Multiple District 36, Oregon and Northern California

We Serve

Lions of Oregon & Northern California are a part of an international network of 1.4 million men and women in 200 countries and geographic areas who work together to answer the needs that challenge communities around the world. Lions are best known for working to end preventable blindness, the giving of eyeglasses and hearing aids for the needy and local service projects.

 

Mission Statement of Lions Clubs International:

 

"To create and foster a spirit of understanding among all people for humanitarian needs by providing voluntary services through community involvement and international cooperation."

 

Building On The Foundation Of Previous District Governors

     “What is a legacy? It's planting seeds in a garden you never get to see.” - Lin-Manuel Miranda, playwright

     It is with great excitement and pleasure that I write my first column as your District Governor for 36-O.  For many years I’ve had the opportunity to hold supporting roles in our district and multiple district, having a front row seat to watch as Lions and our clubs have changed over the years.  I often reflect on my own start in Lions, as a branch club member, and following in the footsteps of loved ones that were also Lions. So with that, I have decided that my theme for this year is Building a Legacy.

     Building a legacy is a profound endeavor that often transcends a lifetime. It’s about leaving a lasting impact, whether through accomplishments, contributions, or the positive influence we have on others.  It is striving for excellence in the activities we love and sharing that love and knowledge with those around us.  By sharing, we’re doing impactful work in our communities while also showing kindness and compassion as we serve.  I believe that as Lions, we are constantly influencing our communities and the people we serve, including our fellow members.  A legacy begins with having a purpose, deciding what truly matters to you and what you’d like to see that is left behind long after you’re gone.

     I hope that by building on the foundation of previous District Governors, we can continue to make small changes that will last for many years to come.  Some of my goals for my year as District Governor include the following:

·         Support clubs so that all the clubs in the district have 10 or more members.

·         Restructure and rebuild those clubs we have lost in the last couple of years, reviving their charters to re-start them with 10 or more new members.

·         Work towards starting new clubs in communities and focusing on underrepresented groups for potential specialty clubs.

·         Work with all clubs to learn the new Lions Portal and work towards a high level of reporting service.  We will have numerous training sessions focused on the Portal and supporting our club officers.

·         Work with clubs to strengthen their use of social media and grow their public relations skills so that Lions Clubs are no longer the best kept secret in our communities.

·         I will also work with clubs to encourage their support of LCIF.

     I am looking forward to hitting the ground running once I return from Melbourne. Please reach out to me for support as I am here to serve the Lions in both 36-O and MD36.

Will you not help me hasten the day when there shall be no preventable blindness; no little deaf, blind child untaught; no blind man or woman unaided? I appeal to you Lions, you who have your sight, your hearing, you who are strong and brave and kind. Will you not constitute yourselves Knights of the Blind in this crusade against darkness?
— Helen Keller's Speech at 1925 International Convention Cedar Point, Ohio, USA June 30, 1925