President's Message: Rooted in Service with International President Mark S. Lyon
- D40 Communications
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
Lions,
Service is the foundation of our organization. It’s at the very root of what we do and who we are as Lions. Meaningful service fuels growth, increases our impact and strengthens our communities and our world. It’s why people join us — and why they stay.
That’s why my presidential theme this year is “Rooted in Service.” I encourage all of us to reconnect with our Lion roots and focus on what matters most. Get creative with your service. Have fun. Look for new ways to meet the needs of your communities. And remember, no act of service is too small — every effort makes a difference.
I look forward to serving alongside you as your international president. Thank you for all the ways you already serve, and I can’t wait to see what we accomplish together.
Introducing the 2026-27 Weeks of Service
The 2026-2027 Weeks of Service, which connects Leos and Lions around the world for three separate weeks of service projects centered around a key global cause.
Vision (October 8-18, 2026) – The new Vision Service Project Ideas resource can help you get started.
Youth (February 13-21) – Support the youth of the world with a service project benefiting children and young people.
Environment (May 29-June 6) – Our Environmental Advocacy, Awareness and Education resource is packed with service suggestions that promote a more sustainable world.
Start Planning for our Vision Week of Service
Join Lions and Leos around the world as we work to improve the lives of the visually impaired and help prevent avoidable blindness during our Vision Week of Service from October 8-18, 2026. For inspiration on how you can contribute, check out our new Vision Service Project Ideas resource.
Earn recognition for your commitment to excellence
When you go above and beyond, we want to celebrate your efforts! Find out how you and your Lions can earn special recognition this year.
Presidential Awards – This year’s prestigious presidential awards include awards for top districts and club chartering, plus a new Membership Satisfaction Award.
MISSION 1.5 Awards – Help us meet our MISSION 1.5 goals and you can earn medals, pins, plaques, banner patches and more.
Kindness Matters Service Award – NEW THIS YEAR: District and multiple districts can now be recognized, in addition to clubs, for outstanding service.
Excellence Awards – These awards recognize clubs, districts, zones and regions for excellence in membership growth, leadership development, impactful service and humanitarian contributions.
Be sure that you and your Lions earn the recognition you deserve for your exceptional service and growth.
July Updates:
Download President Lyon’s presidential theme book, pin artwork and guidelines, the We Serve logo, videos and more on the presidential theme page.
NEW: The club suspension period has been reduced from 120 to 90 days with automatic cancellation in the second month following suspension if left unresolved.
The limited-edition International President Mark Lyon LCIF Supporter recognition is available to earn now through your personal and club donations to LCIF.
Ensure your district GLT coordinator submits a 2026-2027 Leadership Development District Grant Program application. Funding is limited, so urge them to apply now!
Show your support for our new president, Mark Lyon, by purchasing exciting new products from his presidential collection, including a scarf, tie, lapel tack, notebook and more.
Applications for the Leo Club Program Advisory Panel for the 2027-2029 term are open through August 15 with panelists serving as ambassadors representing their constitutional areas.
Visit the Lions Learning Center in the Lion Portal to explore a new LCIF course about Lions Quest, LCIF’s education and development program.
The 2026-2027 Leadership Development International Institute Schedule is available, so encourage eligible Lions in your area to apply for the Lions Certified Instructor Program (LCIP).
Motivate your team to earn our new MISSION 1.5 Growth and Impact Awards, recognizing Lions for achieving key membership, leadership and service milestones.