The Lions Clubs of Oklahoma’s District 3-E gathered in Okmulgee for their Midwinter Convention on Feb. 8 at First Baptist Church, located at 311 W. 5th Street. This annual event served as a celebration of the remarkable service efforts made by Lions Clubs across Eastern Oklahoma and provided an opportunity for members to collaborate, learn and continue their mission of community service under the global motto, “We Serve.”

A special thanks was extended to the Henryetta Lions Club and Tulsa Downtown Lions Club for their dedication and assistance in organizing the event by the host Okmulgee Lions Club. Their contributions, along with the generous support of individuals, businesses, and community groups, played a crucial role in making the convention a success.

--- District 3-E Overview & Growth Opportunities The 3-E District is currently home to 813 members across 39 clubs, with an average club size of 21 members. However, 23 of these clubs have fewer than 20 members, highlighting a significant opportunity for growth and recruitment efforts. The Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) Coordinators reported that seven clubs and ten individual members have contributed to LCIF, though the district is still short of its overall fundraising goal.

To enhance leadership and service capabilities, Lions members were encouraged to utilize the online training resources available through the Lions Portal. Additionally, the event included the election of district leaders and state board members, ensuring strong leadership moving forward.

--- Convention Highlights & Fundraising Efforts One of the major initiatives during the convention was raising funds for the ‘Feed the Kids’ program in Okmulgee. Attendees donated for their meal, which featured a variety of soups, including a gluten-free option. Proceeds from the meal, silent auction, and raffle ticket sales were directed toward supporting this essential community program. Additional funds raised through raffles and a 50/50 drawing were allocated to LCIF.

--- Community Impact: Lions Clubs in Action Lions Clubs throughout the 3-E District continue to make a meaningful impact in their communities through a variety of service projects. Some of the recent activities include:

• Henryetta Lions Club successfully organized a large-scale Christmas basket project during the holiday season. Upcoming projects include their Sweetheart Bingo fundraiser on Feb. 16, which will help provide scholarships, and a spaghetti dinner on Feb. 8 in support of the Henryetta High School Band’s trip to Washington, D.C. The club also received a generous donation from AEB Bank, which will help fund projects throughout 2025.

• Okmulgee Lions Club was busy getting ready to host the district convention! They have started selling Cowboy Cash tickets and are planning for their spring pancake event. The club also hosted their Students of the Month, along with Joshua Jackson from the Okmulgee Times. They recently inducted a new member, Rev. Jeffrey Francis - welcome! Additionally, they recognized Mark Baker as Lion of the Year.

• Broken Bow Lions Club partnered with the city to create a Winter Wonderland in the park, featuring an ice rink. The club also sold homemade fried pies, hot chocolate, and cider, while recognizing outstanding students through their ‘Students of the Month’ program.

• Bartlesville Lions Club focused on collecting used eyeglasses and preparing for upcoming spring projects.

• Wilburton Lions Club hosted a Benefit Bingo event to support the Southeast Livestock Show, scheduled for Feb. 7-8. The club is also adjusting its meeting schedule to include evening sessions in an effort to attract new members.

• Tulsa Metro-McCullough Lions Club presented the ‘Dr. Bob’ scholarship and collected used eyeglasses while celebrating its 50th charter anniversary last month.

• McAlester Lions Club welcomed Pam Timmons from the Hough Ear Institute, who spoke about the new hearing aid recycling program. This initiative is a partnership with Lions Clubs in Oklahoma. The club also received a collection box for hearing aids.

• Fairland Lions Club conducted a vision screening for 261 students, resulting in 34 referrals.

• Dewey Lions Club is actively working on their legacy project, the Dewey Lions Park.

• Bokoshe Lions Club continues to stay active and is selling Cowboy Cash tickets.

As the district moves forward, clubs are encouraged to continue sharing updates on their projects and events through the recently launched Oklahoma Lions District 3-E Facebook page. With a strong commitment to service and community involvement, the Lions Clubs of District 3-E remain dedicated to making a positive difference in Oklahoma communities.

The Midwinter Convention once again reinforced the importance of collaboration, community support, and the unwavering dedication of Lions Club members across Eastern Oklahoma. As spring approaches, clubs are preparing for a new slate of projects aimed at enhancing the lives of those in need.

For more information about the Lions Club and how to get involved, visit the Oklahoma Lions District 3-E Facebook page or reach out to a local chapter.