District News

District Cabinet Meeting – July 2024: Key Highlights

The Montana Lions District 37 Cabinet convened on July 13, 2024, at the Great Falls School for the Deaf and the Blind. District Governor Raleigh Peck presiding. With a blend of in-person and virtual attendees, the meeting covered significant developments, financial updates, and new initiatives for the year.

District Governor’s Vision

District Governor Raleigh Peck emphasized his mission for the year, focusing on Club Branches, which require only five members to start. This initiative aims to boost membership and club activity across the district.

Financial Health and Recommendations

Cabinet Treasurer Steve Dogiakos presented the financial report, revealing that the district is in a decent financial position. However, there is a budget shortfall of about $24,000 for the current year. The team discussed strategies to balance the budget, including adding a line item for the Global Extension Team. Funds will be moved from Stockman Bank to 1st Bank of Montana in Choteau for better local access. The financial report and the resolution for banking were unanimously approved.

Grant Updates and Club Health

Past District Governor and current Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) District Co-chair Mike Tobin reported on various grants, including closing out the Plus Optix Grant and new grant applications from Glendive for ADA-compliant pool bathrooms and food bank appliances. The district’s giving to the LCIF is up by 25% compared to the previous year. The Club Health Assessment indicated a positive trend for the district.

Club Officer Training & Leadership Development

Efforts to enhance club officer training are ongoing, with new video resources for using the new Lions Clubs International Portal and training sessions planned for the upcoming convention in Helena.

A Leadership Retreat is scheduled for September 20-21 in Choteau, aiming to bolster leadership skills across the district. Contact PDG Mike Collins for information or to refer prosepctive attendees.

New Initiatives and Policies

A significant update to the district’s policies was the introduction of a 3rd Vice District Governor position, funded with $1,500 from reserves as a pilot program. The Cabinet also approved amendments to the endorsed projects and enhanced the security measures for the district’s website directory by removing email information and implementing contact forms.

Around the District: Community Projects & Reports

Zone Chairs provided updates on various community projects, including Columbia Falls’ summer concerts and Heritage Days, Eureka’s playground installation, and Choteau’s parade and concert sponsorships. Clubs are actively engaged in local events, demonstrating the Lions’ commitment to community service.

Future Events & Conventions

Plans for the 2025 District Convention in Helena are underway, with $3,000 in seed money allocated. The event will feature International Director Anthony Paradiso from New York. Additionally, the collection of eyeglasses was established as a district project, ensuring continued support for this important initiative.

Next Meeting and Adjournment

The next Cabinet meeting is scheduled for October 12 at the Great Falls School for the Deaf and the Blind, with Zoom available. All Region and Zone chair, and Club Presidents and Secretaries are invited.

The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn at 1:00 PM, marking the end of a productive session focused on the growth and the betterment of District 37.

By Lion Steve Dogiakos