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 ChristensenSupporting Mental Health Together
FROM THE DESK OF DISTRICT GOVERNOR CORINNA CHRISTENSEN
Mental health is one of the world’s most urgent challenges, and Lions across Montana District 37 are helping make a difference through service, compassion, and community connection. Whether it is supporting youth, checking in on neighbors, assisting families in need, or simply offering a helping hand, every act of kindness matters.
Research also shows that volunteering not only helps others; it can improve your own mental health and well-being too. Serving as a Lion brings purpose, connection, friendship, and the rewarding feeling of making a positive impact in the lives of others.
As Lions, we know that service changes communities and it changes us as well. Discover how your club can take action and support mental health and well-being in this short video. For those of you that were at the District 37 Convention in Columbia Falls, you may recognize a familiar face, our friend PID Marvin Chambers from Alberta.
Take a moment to explore Lions International’s Global Cause for Mental Health and Well-Being and consider how your club can make a difference right here in Montana District 37. Together, we can continue to lead with compassion, serve with purpose, and strengthen the well-being of our communities.
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
From the Desk of Governor Corinna – April 2026
“Leading with Heart: Service, Empowerment, and Community”
Fellow Lions and Leos of Montana,
As we step into April, it’s incredible to realize that our Lionistic year is already 75% complete. The time has flown by, but our opportunity to serve is far from over. Now is the moment to finish strong, expand our impact, and continue changing lives across Montana communities.
District 37 Lions Convention – April 17–18–19
Cedar Creek Lodge | Columbia Falls, Montana
One of the most exciting events of our year is just around the corner! The District 37 Lions Convention promises to be an engaging, inspiring, and fun-filled gathering for all.
Friday Highlights:
- Officer Training (Morning)
Attend and receive reimbursement for one night’s lodging—a great opportunity to grow your leadership skills. - Area Tours (Afternoon)
Explore and enjoy the beauty and uniqueness of the Columbia Falls area. - “Montana Aloha Luau” (Evening)
- Silent & Live Auction
- Live Music & Dancing
- Hawaiian attire encouraged!
Saturday Highlights:
- Presentation of the Flags by the Columbia Falls American Legion
- National Anthems of Canada and United States performed by Craig Blair
- Special appearances by Miss Montana and Miss Montana’s Teen
- Leader Dogs for the Blind program presentation
- Convention business:
- Nomination of officers
- Selection of future convention site
- Leadership training opportunities
- Memorial Service
- SPEED LEARNING
- Parade of Green
- Montana Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation presentation and raffle drawing
- Evening Banquet featuring keynote speaker PID Deb Weaverling
- District Awards Celebration
Sunday Highlights (Optional):
- Plus Optix Community Engagement Workshop
- District Cabinet Meeting
- Montana Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation Meeting
FULL CONVENTION AGENDA LINK…CLICK HERE
This convention is more than a meeting…it’s a celebration of who we are as Lions and Leos and the impact we make together.
Let’s Finish the Year Strong
With just a quarter of the year remaining, I encourage every club to:
- Expand your service efforts
- Invite new members to join your mission
- Look for new communities that could benefit from a Lions Club
Montana Lions District 37 is ready and eager to support the creation of NEW CLUBS in new areas. If you see a need, let’s meet it TOGETHER.
Reach out to DG Corinna or VDG Jon for:
- Guidance on starting new clubs
- Membership growth strategies
- Ideas to strengthen your service impact
Moving Forward with Purpose
Each act of service, each new member, and each new club strengthens our ability to serve. Let’s carry our momentum forward and make these final months of the Lionistic year our most impactful yet.
Together, we serve. Together, we lead. Together, we grow.
With gratitude and determination,
DG Corinna Christensen
From the Desk of Governor Corinna – March 2026
“Leading with Heart: Service, Empowerment, and Community”
There is something about this time of year in Montana that feels full of momentum. The days stretch a little longer, projects start taking shape, and our service calendar begins to fill quickly. I continue to be so proud of the energy, creativity, and steady commitment I see across District 37. Whether you are in a town of less than 200 or 120,000+, you are making a difference and it shows.
I want to personally remind you about the upcoming She Leads Symposium on March 8 at 7:00 a.m. Mountain Time. Hosted through Lions International, this event is designed to inspire and strengthen leadership at every level. If you are able, consider turning it into a club watch party. Gather around a laptop at your meeting hall, meet for breakfast at a local café, or invite neighboring clubs to join you. Leadership grows stronger when we grow together.
Earlier this month, I sent the registration details from the District 37 email account. Please refer back to that message for details. She Leads Registration Link can be found here. I would love to see a strong Montana presence.
Looking ahead, April 18–26 marks the Environmental focus of the Lions Worldwide Weeks of Service. This is our opportunity to amplify what we already do so well — serve visibly and meaningfully. Plant a tree. Clean a stretch of highway. Organize an e-waste recycling day. Partner with your local school on a beautification project. Support a waterway cleanup. The project does not have to be elaborate; it simply needs heart and participation. When each club does something, our district impact becomes powerful.
And then, of course, District 37 Convention. April 17–18 in Columbia Falls will be here before we know it. The convention team has poured thoughtful planning into making this an event that balances education, connection, and fun. Convention is where we refuel, where we exchange ideas, where we laugh, and where we remember why we first said yes to Lionism. Be sure to register soon: District 37 Lions Convention Registration Link.
As we prepare for Convention and our annual Memorial Service, please take a moment to submit the names and information of departed Lions from your club at https://www.montanalions.org/memorial-necrology-service/ so that each life of service, friendship, and dedication is properly honored and remembered.
Lastly, if you are in Eastern Montana, consider traveling west by train with PDG Raleigh Peck. I have a feeling that trip alone could become a district legend. Good conversation, Montana scenery rolling by, and Lions fellowship… it does not get much better than that.
On behalf of District 37, I would like to extend our deepest condolences to our Lions neighbors to the north in Alberta on the passing of Justice Brian Stevenson, Past International President of Lions International. At the time of his presidency, we proudly shared a Multiple District with Alberta. PIP Brian will be remembered as an exemplary leader, devoted Lion, and true friend whose legacy of integrity and service will continue to inspire us all.
Thank you for continuing to lead with integrity and serve with generosity. District 37 is strong because of you. Let’s keep the momentum going as we move into a very full and exciting spring.
With appreciation and confidence in our shared mission…WE SERVE,
District Governor Corinna Christensen
Montana Lions District 37
Lead to Serve, Serve to Lead
From the Desk of Governor Corinna – February 2026
“Leading with Heart: Service, Empowerment, and Community”
February is a month where compassion takes center stage. As Lions, we continue to lead with heart—empowering others, uplifting communities, and embracing new opportunities to grow. With the year well underway, now is the time to deepen our impact through meaningful service, strong partnerships, and inclusive leadership.
This month, let’s channel our energy into impactful Service Activities and align our goals with Lions International’s global themes as well as the needs of your community. Whether you’re organizing a local food drive, vision screening, or planning a Service Carnival, your work changes lives. Remember to plan for the third and final Lions International Week of Service on April 18-26 with focus on the environment. More information can be found at https://www.lionsclubs.org/en/member-resource-center/service/global-causes-initiatives/weeks-of-service
Leadership in Action
- February is also a time to mentor and empower new leaders. Consider:
- Recommending Lions for leadership training
- Supporting potential Leo Advisors and Leos
- Promoting establishing New Lions Clubs or Lions Club Branches where you see a need
- Leadership doesn’t begin with a title. It begins with a willingness to serve.
Save the Date: March 8, 2026
In celebration of International Women’s Day, Lions around the world are invited to participate in She Leads – A Global Lions Symposium. This virtual event will bring together Lions, Leos, allies, and change‑makers to empower women in service, share leadership strategies, and strengthen global inclusion and collaboration within our organization.
The symposium will begin at 7:00 AM Montana Time and is open to all members worldwide. Registration details and access information can be found through the Montana Lions District 37 website at https://www.montanalions.org/2026/01/27/she-leads-global-lions-symposium-march-8-2026/. Personally, I will be having a watch party with many of my Lady Lion Friends. Please join us either in person or virtually.
Save the Date: District 37 Convention
Be sure to register for the upcoming District 37 Convention, to be held in beautiful Columbia Falls on April 17-18. This is a fantastic opportunity to:
- Learn what your neighboring Lions Clubs are doing
- Get updates on Lions International initiatives
- Attend the popular “Speed Learning” session, which will be back this year
Check it out and register at:
https://www.montanalions.org/events/2026-district-37-convention/
We Want to Feature You
Send photos, stories, and success highlights to be included in the next newsletter. Let’s celebrate our District’s incredible Lions. Post any stories by clicking on https://www.montanalions.org/submit-club-news/ or tag us on social media using #MontanaLionsDistrict37 or simply #MontanaLions and always include #WeServe. You are also welcome to email your story and photos to [email protected].
Together, We Serve
Here’s to the second half of the Lionistic year focusing on bold action, big hearts, and lasting change.
With gratitude and excitement,
District Governor Corinna
Montana Lions District 37
She Leads – Global Lions Symposium-March 8, 2026
SAVE THE DATE
March 8, 2026
International Women’s Day
She Leads – A Global Lions Symposium
March 8, 2026 | International Women’s Day
9:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Theme: Empowering Women. Inspiring Action. Leading Together. Who’s Invited: Lions, Leos, allies, and change-makers worldwide Where: Global | Virtual
Registration Link found below
Meeting ID: 879 1014 7859
Passcode: 636835
Leadership & visibility
Global storytelling & allyship
Strategies for growth and inclusive innovation2026 District 37 Convention Registration is OPEN!
We’re thrilled to invite you to join Lions from across Montana for an unforgettable weekend of connection, inspiration, and fun in Columbia Falls on April 17–18, 2026!
How to Register:
• Register online at www.montanalions.org
• Or complete the attached PDF registration form and mail it with your check to Lion Jessica Fausey at the address listed on the form
This year’s convention will be packed with meaningful fellowship, engaging sessions, and plenty of Montana hospitality—all set against the stunning backdrop of Glacier country.
We can’t wait to welcome you to Columbia Falls and celebrate Lions service together as one. Mark your calendar and get registered today! 
From the Desk of Governor Corinna – January 2026
From District Governor Corinna Christensen
As we welcome 2026 with fresh energy and optimism, I want to thank every Lion across District 37 for the service you have continued to provide throughout your communities. You are the heart of Lions, and it shows in every project, every act of kindness, and every person you serve.
One of our global priorities this month is hunger relief. I encourage all clubs to join our Hunger Week of Service from January 3 through January 11. Lead projects that address every aspect of hunger, including food security, community meals, food pantry support, and even agricultural assistance. Do not forget to capture your efforts. Clubs are invited to submit hunger-focused service videos by January 23, 2026 for an opportunity to be featured in the Weeks of Service Video Showcase. If you need ideas, I encourage you to watch the standout entries from our recent Mental Health and Well-being Showcase. You will be inspired.
Have you visited LionPortal.com lately? It continues to improve each month with new features, training tools, resources, and service ideas. You may have heard me mention my favorite form of “R & D”. Research and Development? Nope. Ripoff and Duplicate! Lion Portal is the perfect place to learn from successful club initiatives around the world or to reach out to the club in the next town for ideas. Work smarter and utilize the tools at your fingertips. Additionally, remember that you can start at MontanaLions.org for EVERYTHING Lions. There is News, Training, Directory, Links, and so much more.
Looking ahead, I am very excited for our District 37 Convention in Columbia Falls on April 17 and 18. This will be another outstanding opportunity to collaborate, learn, grow, and yes, do more R and D. We have incredible Lions in our district, and when we come together, our collective strengths shine even brighter.
New Year. New Clubs. New Lions. New Projects. New Leadership Roles. Let us make 2026 the best year ever for service in Montana. Together, “We lead to serve and serve to lead.”
Yours in service,
DG Corinna Christensen
District 37 Montana Lions
(Pictured at “Lion Lake” near Hungry Horse Dam)
District 37 Peace Poster Winners Announced
Celebrating the Future of Peace
Each year, Lions Clubs around the world participate in one of our most meaningful youth initiatives: The Lions International Peace Poster Contest. This inspiring program encourages children aged 11 to 13 to express their visions of peace through art. It is a powerful way to engage youth, support creativity, and promote Lions’ global message of unity and service.
We are proud to announce the Montana District 37 winners of the 2025–2026 Peace Poster Contest, themed “Together as One.” The entries were outstanding, and the judging process reflected the thoughtfulness and artistic talent of students from across our state.
First Place Winner:Josie Hensley
Helena Christian School | Sponsored by Helena Lions Club (President Jack Berry)
Josie’s powerful poster has been forwarded to Lions International Headquarters in Oak Brook, Illinois, where it will compete with entries from around the world.
First Runner-Up: Sylvia Rea Fanelli
Ennis School | Sponsored by Ennis Lions Club
Second Runner-Up: Jessica Haas
Ennis School | Sponsored by Ennis Lions Club