Sakin Auhin:
The sound of unity, service, and leadership echoed through Niagara Falls, New York, as members of Lions Clubs District 20-R and the wider MD-20 region gathered for the 101st Annual New York State & Bermuda Lions Convention from May 16 to 18, 2025. The convention brought together delegates from across New York and Bermuda for a pivotal weekend of elections, meetings, and community building.
Held at the Niagara Falls Convention Center, with accommodations provided at the nearby Sheraton Niagara Falls, the three-day convention combined democratic tradition with the Lions’ mission of humanitarian service. Lions from across the region participated in formal leadership elections, discussed strategic priorities, and reaffirmed their commitment to service at local and global levels.
While the convention serves many purposes—networking, celebration, and inspiration—its primary function this year was to elect the district’s new slate of leaders. Delegates cast their votes to determine the future direction of the organization, a hallmark of the Lions’ democratic structure. The outcomes of these elections will shape how Lions Clubs across the MD-20 region continue to respond to challenges and engage in community service throughout the coming year.
District 20-R, which includes a diverse group of clubs known for their local initiatives and global outreach, used the convention as an opportunity to highlight accomplishments and plan ahead. As in past years, the event also served as a celebration of the Lions’ enduring values: integrity, service, and leadership.
“This annual convention is more than just a formality,” noted one longtime delegate. “It’s about reaffirming who we are as Lions—people who serve with purpose and lead with vision.”
Throughout the weekend, attendees participated in sessions that emphasized the importance of adapting to changing needs, engaging younger generations, and strengthening partnerships with local communities and nonprofits. Fellowship was abundant, as Lions reconnected with peers, shared stories of impact, and discussed new strategies to amplify their service.
The 101st convention was particularly meaningful, marking over a century of service in the region under the Lions Clubs International banner. It also underscored the continued relevance of civic leadership organizations in a rapidly changing world.
As the weekend concluded and delegates prepared to return to their home clubs, the spirit of unity remained palpable. With new leaders elected and fresh momentum gained, the Lions of District 20-R and MD-20 left Niagara Falls ready to serve with renewed energy, inspired by tradition and focused on the future.
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