Forward! Upward! Onward!

     When I selected my motto for the 2020-2021 year, it was a different time, pre-virus, Lions getting together at meetings and performing community service projects.  Everyone was enthusiastic and full of plans for the coming year, spreading the “Where there’s a need, there’s a Lion” slogan around the state.

     Then things changed.  It became the year of Covid and wildfires.  In-person meetings were cancelled and virtual meetings were a new thing for many of us and resisted by some.   Visitations were a thing of the past. 

     A $10,000 LCIF grant for Covid response resulted in $10,000 worth of personal protective equipment being distributed throughout the District.  Handwashing was at a new high.

     Then wildfires took over the state, especially in District R.  Lions stepped up and became disaster response champions.  From the Santiam fires to the McKenzie fires, Lions were present and helping in so many ways.  Supplies were distributed and a field kitchen fed 200-500 people three meals a day.  Another $10,000 LCIF grant for disaster response was received and used to assist survivors and first responders throughout the District. 

     Now it is a new year with lots of positive activities happening.  I have elected to resurrect my motto for 2024-2025 – Forward!  Upward!  Onward!  Lion Karen Norton has been appointed as 1st Vice District Governor and will be assisting us in achieving our goals.

     Forward!  We must continue to move forward and keep our clubs active.  We already have several Zoom and GoToMeeting gurus in our District who will be happy to help you set up your account.  Virtual meetings are a good way to keep in touch with your fellow Lions and can be a social event (cocktail hours are popular) as well as a business meeting. 

     Upward!  Though there have been many new Lions added to the District, membership still continues to drop.  A major issue is retention.  If your club has lost some members, have you contacted them and asked why?  It does no good to add 5 new members but drop 10.  There is an LCI membership survey available that can help identify problems.  It may be something as simple as someone needing a ride to meetings.  I urge you to distribute the survey to all your club members, not just those who have left, to help you identify problem areas.

     Consider forming branch clubs, which only require five members to start.  Consider establishing a Leos club.  Leos are prime targets for virtual meetings as most youth have been doing that for quite a while.  Consider having a membership drive in your area.  There are lots of tools and Lions available to help you.  Just ask.  We can’t just fade away . . . that’s not the Lions style!

     Onward!  Service projects are continuing, and this is the time to be creative.  Read the Lions magazine for ideas.  Check out the District R websites and Facebook pages, where many clubs have posted their activities.  Feel free to try something new.  

     Another $10,000 LCIF grant for disaster preparedness has been awarded and we will be spreading the word about that project to every club in the near future.  Stay tuned!