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Lions Clubs International has proposed a future adjustment to international dues that will be considered by voting delegates at the 2026 International Convention in Hong Kong. Because dues discussions often raise understandable questions, this post is intended to clearly explain what is being proposed, when it would take effect, and how it does and does not affect District 37.

What is being proposed

The International Board of Directors has approved a proposal to gradually increase international dues by a total of $10 over five years, beginning in 2028.

If approved by convention delegates, the adjustment would follow this schedule:

• July 1, 2028: +$2

• July 1, 2029: +$2

• July 1, 2030: +$2

• July 1, 2031: +$2

• July 1, 2032: +$2

That equals $2 per year, or $1 per semiannual billing period, over five years.

Why Lions Clubs International is proposing this change

Like most global organizations, Lions Clubs International has experienced sustained cost increases due to inflation, rising technology expenses, and the cost of maintaining worldwide member support.

Before proposing a dues adjustment, Lions Clubs International reports that it:

• Reduced operating budgets

• Renegotiated vendor contracts

• Cut or consolidated programs after ROI review

• Adjusted staffing levels

• Improved efficiency through automation

The proposed increase is intended to maintain current service levels and infrastructure rather than expand programs.

How Lions international dues compare to other service organizations

Even with the proposed adjustment fully implemented in 2032, Lions international dues would remain comparatively low:

• Rotary International: approximately $107 per year

• Kiwanis International: approximately $107 per year

• Lions Clubs International: $50 currently, rising gradually to $60 by 2032

Lions international dues include insurance coverage and a subscription to LION Magazine, which some peer organizations bill separately.

What international dues are used for

International dues support the global operations of Lions Clubs International, including:

• Club and member support services

• Training and leadership development

• International conventions and events

• Technology platforms and digital tools

• Global marketing and public relations

• Translation and language services

• Legal support and liability insurance

International dues do not fund LCIF grants or programs, which are supported entirely by donations.

What this means for District 37

This is the most important clarification:

District 37 dues are not changing as a result of this proposal.

District dues are set independently through the District budget process and are governed by District 37 policy and cabinet approval. The proposed international adjustment does not automatically increase district or club dues.

What this may mean for individual clubs

If the international dues adjustment is approved in 2026, club boards will need to decide whether and how to absorb the increase.

Clubs generally have three options:

1. Absorb the increase within existing club budgets

2. Adjust member dues to offset the increase

3. Use a combination of budgeting and dues adjustment

For context, the impact is modest:

• $2 per member per year

• $1 per semiannual billing period

That scale is intentionally small and gradual to allow clubs time to plan.

Who makes the final decision

The proposal has been approved by the International Board of Directors but has not yet been adopted.

The final decision will be made by official voting delegates at the 2026 Lions Clubs International Convention. If approved, the first increase would take effect July 1, 2028.

As always, District leadership will continue to share accurate information as it becomes available so clubs can plan responsibly and without surprises.

If your club has questions about budgeting, dues structure, or planning for potential future changes, reach out through your Zone Chair or District Cabinet.