I am thrilled and honoured to address you as the newly appointed District Governor for the 2023-2024 Lions year. It is with immense gratitude that I accept this responsibility, and I want to express my sincere appreciation to all of you for placing your confidence in me to lead our District. Together, we will continue the legacy of service and make a meaningful impact in our communities.
First and foremost, I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our esteemed Immediate Past District Governor, Lion Nickolas DaCosta PMJF. His leadership, friendship, and unwavering work ethics over the past two years have been truly commendable. I am grateful for his guidance and support as we transition into this new Lionistic year.
I also want to acknowledge and recognize the efforts of the District Governors who preceded me. Over the last 43 years, their fortitude and ability to hold our District together have paved the way for our continued success. Their dedication has built a strong foundation upon which we can now build an even brighter future.
I would like to give a special shout-out to the Lions, Leos and Leo-Lions serving on the 2023-2024 Cabinet and District Committees. Your renewed energy, enthusiasm, and vigour during the training sessions have been inspiring. I am confident that with your passion and commitment, we will achieve remarkable things in the year ahead. Together, we will lead by example, demonstrating the Ubuntu philosophy, "I am because we are" but more so all of us utilizing the Heart of the Lion.
As we embark on this new Lions year, I want to outline the goals that require our special attention:
Goal 1 - Demonstrating the Heart of a Lion:
Encourage at least 65% of our Clubs to engage in one signature sustainable project, showcasing our commitment to making a lasting difference.
Emphasize the importance of knowing our communities intimately, enabling us to address their specific needs effectively.
Goal 2 - Knowing the Pride:
Facilitate inter-club activities, with the aim of having 50% of our clubs implement inter-clubbing/twinning programs. This will foster stronger relationships and a sense of unity among Lions and Leos.
Encourage intra-club activities that promote team building and a deeper understanding of one another within our clubs.
Goal 3 - Lions Roaring- Leadership:
Place a heavy focus on training and empowering Lions and Leos, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary for effective leadership.
Provide opportunities for personal and professional growth, widening the scope of training beyond District Position training. This includes areas such as self-development, financial planning, and succession planning.
Goal 4 - The Lions Family- Membership:
Support Lions Clubs with membership under 20, ensuring they reach a membership of 20. Together, we can strengthen our clubs and enhance our collective impact.
Challenge Clubs to retain their membership through the "Lose one, add two" approach, aiming for overall membership growth.
Engage at least 24 Clubs in programs aimed at improving the membership experience, making Lions Clubs a welcoming and fulfilling environment for all.
Goal 5 - Youth of the Pride- Leo Club Programme:
Increase District membership in the Leo Club Program by 25%, empowering more young leaders to make a positive difference.
Enhance the membership experience for Leos, ensuring they feel valued and supported.
Encourage at least 20 Lions Clubs to engage in Lions/Leos partnership projects, bridging generational gaps and fostering mentorship opportunities.
Certify one new Leo Club, expanding our network of passionate young individuals.
Develop a program specifically for the Alpha Leos, our youngest members, providing them with age-appropriate activities and guidance.
Support Leo Clubs with membership under 10, helping them reach a membership of 15 and ensuring their growth and sustainability.
In alignment with Lions Clubs International's global causes, our District will focus on the following areas:
Diabetes: As the largest service organization, we must be impactful in our contributions to addressing the leading cause of death and disability in the Caribbean. Let us support innovative projects and make a real difference in the lives of those affected by diabetes. We must seek to do innovative projects supported by grant applications.
LCIF Campaign 100: Rallying behind this important initiative to transform more lives and make a lasting impact through our collective efforts. sub-district60b.org
Cancer Awareness: Raising awareness about cancer and supporting initiatives that promote early detection and effective treatment.
Environment and Climate Change: Taking steps to protect our environment and mitigate the effects of climate change through sustainable projects and advocacy.
As you District Governor, I ask that throughout this Lionistic year you remember that we are A Family:
Let us recommit to each other and the family concept. Remember who you are, why you serve, and whom we serve. Our Lions and Leos are a family united in service, and together, we can achieve greatness.
I also urge all Lions to connect with our youth-the Leos, encourage their ideas, and trust their judgment. Let us allow them to lead, participate, and teach us valuable lessons. By facilitating the growth of our Leos and welcoming young blood into our ranks, we will invigorate our service and ensure a bright future for our District.
Education is key, and we will utilize both traditional and non-traditional avenues to support our members in the District. We will widen the scope of training beyond District Position training, focusing on self-development, financial planning, and succession planning. By equipping ourselves with knowledge and skills, we empower ourselves to serve more effectively.
Together, as Lions, Leos, and Leo-Lions, we have the power to make a significant impact. Let us stand united, demonstrating the ‘Heart of a Lion’, empowering one another, and embracing our shared commitment to service. I have full confidence in your abilities, and I am excited to work alongside each and every one of you in the year ahead.
Yours in service,
Carlisle Goddard PMJF
District Governor – District 60B
43rd District Governor, Sub-District 60B