Leo Update – September 2026
Leos Are the Future — and the NOW — of Lionism!
As school has just started in pretty much every community in our district, I want to take a moment to say how happy I am to serve as the Leo Chair for SD37. I have a few ideas and reminders as we begin another exciting year with our Leos.
First, a reminder about reporting. The Leo50-A is a required form, so please make sure your Leo club information and membership reporting are kept current. The sponsoring Lions club is responsible for maintaining records of parental/guardian consent for Leo members who are under the legal age of majority.
Please complete both pages and keep the completed form on file with the sponsoring Lions club. The form should not be sent to International Headquarters. Click here to find the form: Leo Application Form
Keep Your Leo Records Up to Date
Another important reminder as we begin the new school year: work with your Leo president and secretary to make sure all of your Leo members are entered into the Lions portal. Keeping membership information accurate and up to date is important for good record keeping and helps ensure that your Leos receive the recognition and resources available to them.
Take a few minutes to sit down with your Leo officers and help them understand how to use the portal. This is also a great opportunity to make sure new members are added and information for existing members is correct.
I also encourage every Lions club supporting a Leo club to visit the Lions International Resource Center and simply type “Leos” into the search box. You will find a tremendous amount of information and resources to help make your Leo club as successful as it can be.
Stay Connected With Your Leos
One of the most important things a sponsoring Lions club can do is meet with your Leos on a regular basis. Your involvement is critical. Our young people need to know that their sponsoring Lions club is right there beside them and ready to help whenever they need it.
That support can take many forms. Maybe your Lions provide a safety vehicle for a highway cleanup, help the Leos organize a community service project, or team up with them to help at a community golf scramble. These shared activities don’t just get things done — they build relationships between Lions and Leos.
Every Community Deserves a Leo Club!
Leos are the future — and the NOW — of Lionism in the world.
Every community deserves the opportunity to have young people involved in service, leadership and making a difference. If your community doesn’t have a Leo Club, START ONE NOW!
And remember, I’m here to help!
If there is anything you may need regarding Leos — whether it’s starting a new club, supporting an existing club, finding resources, working with your Leo advisors or simply bouncing an idea around — please feel free to contact me.
PDG Raleigh G. Peck
Leo Chair – SD37
406-480-5000
[email protected]
Thank you for all you do, and especially for everything you do to support the young people who will carry the Lions’ service mission forward.
Let’s make this a great year for our Leos!
By Leos AdvisorTwo Lights Montana Series – Patrick Henry
March 23, 1775 — the Quote Heard ’Round the World
WHAT – Patrick Henry warned the Second Virginia Convention in Richmond that conflict with Britain was inevitable; the colonies must prepare to defend their liberty. His speech ended with one of the most famous lines in American history: “As for me, give me liberty or give me death!”
WHO – Henry was a prominent Virginia-born lawyer known for challenging British authority. His courtroom success launched a political career and made him a leading voice for colonial resistance.
WHAT FOLLOWED – The Convention narrowly approved Henry’s call to organize a Virginia militia. Soon after, armed conflict began between colonial forces and Britain, pushing the colonies toward revolution.
WHAT MOST DON’T KNOW – Henry’s speech was not written down at the time. The version known today was reconstructed decades later from eyewitness accounts.
ONE SIMPLE TAKEAWAY – Henry’s speech marked a turning point when many colonial leaders accepted that resistance—and eventually independence—would require war.
Join Lions across Montana in celebrating our nation’s 250th anniversary through learning, civic participation, and community service. Plan or participate in a service project on October 24—Montana Makes a Difference Day—and share your efforts using #TwoLightsMT and #D37Lions.
By Global Service TeamFrom the Desk of Governor Jon Kimble – August 2026
Fellow Lions,
In a renewed bid to broaden its impact and reverse a longstanding membership decline, Lions Clubs International (LCI) continued a multi-year strategy – Mission 1.5 – aimed at expanding both its membership and the reach of its service projects. The plan, reiterated at this year’s International gathering in Hong Kong, aims to achieve 1.5 million Lions Members by the 2027 – 2028 Lions Year.
The core objective is straightforward: “more members, more service!” Lions’ service is wide given the sponsored programs: vision, health, environmental improvement, among its service programs around the world. LCI leaders emphasized that increasing enrollment is not merely about numbers, but about expanding our service to communities in need, from vision screenings in rural clinics to disaster-response relief, youth mentorship programs and diabetes awareness and treatment.
District 37 has engaged The Wendt Agency to promote Lions across Montana. The initial phase of the project will be aimed at engaging our neighbors where Lions Clubs are no longer active or have never been present. The new members and Clubs are expected to contribute to the Lions Mission, strengthen Lions in Montana, and serve more of our communities. Changes to LCI administration include:
- Expanded recruitment and onboarding: new digital tools to simplify sign-ups, streamlined mentoring for new members, and targeted outreach to women, younger professionals, and diverse communities.
- Strengthened youth and family pathways: renewed support for Leo Clubs and college-age volunteers as pipelines for future Lions, with enhanced training and project funding.
- Local-to-global service alignment: a framework to connect local clubs’ service projects to broader international campaigns, improving impact visibility and collaboration.
- Strategic partnerships: collaborations with corporations, nonprofits, and government-led public health and humanitarian initiatives to provide scaled opportunities for service.
Success will be reason to celebrate! If you would like to know more, visit https://www.montanalions.org/ or https://www.lionsclubs.org/en
Let’s have a GREAT year!
Jon Kimble
District Governor,
Montana Lions District 37
559-352-1455
By DG Jon KimbleFrom the Desk of IPDG Corinna – August 2026 – Peace Posters
Inspire Young Artists and Promote Peace
Sponsor a 2026–2027 Lions International Peace Poster Contest
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Montana Lions District 37 clubs are encouraged to sponsor the Lions International Peace Poster Contest. This year’s theme is “Harmony in Humanity”.
The contest gives young people ages 11–13 an opportunity to express what peace, kindness and understanding mean to them through art. It is also a wonderful way for Lions clubs to connect with local families, youth leaders and community organizations while promoting the work of Lions.
Participation is not limited to schools. Clubs may also partner with:
- 4-H clubs
- Scout troops
- Boys & Girls Clubs
- Church youth groups
- Homeschool groups
- Libraries
- After-school programs
- Community art centers
- Tribal youth organizations
Montana Lions District 37 offers cash prizes for outstanding entries, and clubs may also offer local prizes or recognition.
At the international level, the grand-prize winner receives US$5,000, a special award and an invitation to a Lions International event. Twenty-three merit award winners each receive US$500 and a certificate.
Lions International also offers a Peace Essay Contest for students who are blind or visually impaired, giving these young people another opportunity to share their vision of peace.
Peace Poster kits are now available online, so there are no postage charges. Each club must purchase a kit for every contest it sponsors. Clubs can also order certificates, pins and other Peace Poster supplies to use as prizes or participant gifts.
Visit the Lions International Peace Poster Shop to purchase kits and supplies:
https://lionsclubsinternational.myshopify.com/collections/peace-poster
Start planning now and help a young Montanan share their vision of “Harmony in Humanity” with the world!
IPDG Corinna Christensen
Montana Lions District 37
“Lead to Serve, Serve to Lead”
By IPDG Corinna ChristensenTwo Lights Montana Series
CELEBRATING OUR NATION’S 250TH ANNIVERSARY
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Join Lions across Montana in celebrating our nation’s 250th anniversary through learning, civic participation, and community service. Plan or participate in a service project on October 24—Montana Makes a Difference Day—and share your efforts using #TwoLightsMT and #D37Lions.
By Lion Peggy TobinUSA/Canada Lions Forum – 2026 Midwest Breakfast
Montana is Invited to the Midwest Breakfast at the Forum
Any Montana Lions attending the USA/Canada Lions Forum are invited by PID Deb Weaverling to attend the Midwest Breakfast.
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”
From the Desk of IPDG Raleigh G. Peck – June 2026
Leo Club Advisor End-of-Year Reminders
With the end of the Lion year quickly approaching, here are a few reminders to wrap up the year:
- Don’t forget to report this year’s service projects, as well as next year’s Leo club officers in the Lion Portal. There are several resources available on the club leadership webpage for new officers.
- There are many awards available on the Leo Awards webpage, including the Leo Award of Honor. If you feel that your Leo club president should receive the Leo Club President Achievement Award, you may download and present this certificate.
- Lions Clubs International Foundation’s Leo Service Grant is available to Lion districts and multiple districts. Consider working with other clubs in your area to apply for the grant!
- Share this blog post on Leo leadership opportunities with the Leos in your club.
- Encourage Leos to continue serving as Lions and share Leo to Lion transition resources with Lions.
If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions for supporting the Leos of SD37, please reach out—I am always happy to connect and visit with all of you.
Thanks for all you do!
IPDG Raleigh G. Peck
By IPDG Raleigh PeckFrom 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 District Governor Elect Jon Kimble – May 2026
Montana Lions District 37
Invitation to Service: May 2026
Our Montana Lions are great assets to their communities! Our kindness and caring really add to the fabric of our lives. Our Single-District 37 is organized to broaden service and fellowship by dividing the large District into four regions. Those four regions are further divided into 14 Zones. A member from each Zone volunteers to be a liaison between the District Cabinet and the Clubs. For the coming Lion year, 2026-2027, we have several volunteers who have accepted the position. We still need a few more…
If you wish to help support our District operations, please consider serving at this level. It will be a great opportunity to connect with other Lions Clubs, and it can be rewarding and fun!
I extend a “Welcome Back!” to our returning Zone Chairs and a hearty “Welcome!” to the new volunteers who have agreed to help: They are:
Zone Lion Clubs Served
Zone 1 Rob Shaffer Hamilton, Missoula, East Missoula, Seeley Lake
Zone 2 Nick Ostle Superior, Plains, Hot Springs
Zone 3 Naomi Valentine – Kalispell, Kalispell Sunrisers, Eureka, Whitefish, Columbia Falls, ColFalls Mountain Branch, Kalispell Rising Lions Branch
Zone 4 Butte – Mile Hi, Deer Lodge
Zone 5 Tom Naegle Helena, Helena Gold Rush, Townsend (Broadwater), White Sulphur Springs
Zone 6 Neil Swift Cascade, Great Falls, Great Falls Sunrise
Zone 7 Jerry Kuhn Chinook, Havre, Turner/Hogeland, Fort Benton
Zone 8 Jack Preston Choteau, Conrad, Cut Bank, Fairfield, Sunburst, Sun River Valley
Zone 9 Rosemary Weber Baker, Glendive, Sidney
Zone 10 Scobey, Wolf Point, Culbertson, Nashua, Plentywood
Zone 11 Mark Manning Billings, Billings Hts, Forsyth, Huntley Project, Hysham, Shepherd
Zone 12 Big Timber, Joliet, Laurel, Red Lodge
Zone 13 Julie Bartos Bozeman, Bozeman Gallatin Empire, Bozeman Sweet Pea, Dillon, Ennis
Zone 14 Denton, Roundup, Winnett
As you can see, we still need support for Zones 4, 10, 12 and 14. If you are a member of those Clubs served, and want to contribute to our District Governance, please contact us. We have several goals for the year for the improvement of service across the State, so you will be a welcome member of the District Team.
GO LIONS!!
DGE Jon Kimble
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