Saturday 28 July 2012

Club Officers Manual (Lions Clubs International)


Club Officers Manual
Lions Clubs International
Purposes
1. TO ORGANIZE charter and supervise service clubs to be known as Lions clubs.
2. TO COORDINATE the activities and standardize the administration of Lions clubs.
3. TO CREATE and foster a spirit of understanding among the peoples of the world.
4. TO PROMOTE the principles of good government and good citizenship.
5. TO TAKE an active interest in the civic, cultural, social and moral welfare of the community.
6. TO UNITE the clubs in the bonds of friendship, good fellowship and mutual understanding.
7. TO PROVIDE a forum for the open discussion of all matters of public interest; provided, however, that partisan politics and sectarian religion shall not be debated by club members.
8. TO ENCOURAGE service-minded people to serve their community without personal financial reward, and to encourage efficiency and promote high ethical standards in commerce, industry, professions, public works and private endeavors.
Lions Clubs International Vision Statement
TO BE THE GLOBAL LEADER in communities and humanitarian service, Lions Clubs International
Code of Ethics
1. TO SHOW my faith in the worthiness of my vocation by industrious application to the end that I may merit a reputation for quality of service.
2. TO SEEK success and to demand all fair remuneration or profit as my just due, but to accept no profit or success at the price of my own self-respect lost because of unfair advantage taken or because of questionable acts on my part.
3. TO REMEMBER that in building up my business it is not necessary to tear down another’s; to be loyal to my clients or customers and true to myself. Whenever a doubt arises as to the right or ethics of my position or action towards others, to resolve such doubt against myself.
4. TO HOLD friendship as an end not a means. To hold that true friendship exists not on account of the service performed by one to another, but that true friendship demands nothing but accepts service in the spirit in which it is given.
5. ALWAYS to bear in mind my obligations as a citizen to my nation, my state and my community, and to give them unswerving loyalty in word, act and deed. To give them freely of my time, labor, and means.
6. TO AID others by giving my sympathy to those in distress, my aid to the weak, and my substance to the needy.
7. TO BE CAREFUL with my criticism and liberal with my praise; to build up and not to destroy.
Lions Clubs International Mission Statement
1. TO EMPOWER VOLUNTEERS to serve their communities, meet humanitarian needs,
Encourage peace and promote international understanding through Lions clubs.
Club Officers Manual
Table of Contents
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
Resources ....................................................................................................4
International Headquarters
Lions Clubs International Web Site
Standard Form Lions Club Constitution and By-Laws
Periodicals
International Theme
District Officers
Lions Clubs International Foundation
Club Structure ...............................................................................................8
Officers’ Duties
Committees
Membership Categories
Club Financing
Lions Clubs International Trademark Policies ..............................................12
Limits on Authority ........................................................................................12
Leadership Skills ..........................................................................................12
Status Quo and Club Cancellation ................................................................13
Financial Suspension of Clubs .....................................................................13
Club Mergers and Single Club Transfers ......................................................14
Club Name Changes ....................................................................................14
Club Officer Orientation at the District Level .................................................14
2
CLUB MANAGEMENT
Beginning the Year .......................................................................................15
Preparation
Setting Goals
Making Committee Assignments
Selecting Service Activities
Determine Record Keeping Methods
Know Your Forms
Fiscal Responsibilities
Throughout the Year .....................................................................................19
Conducting Meetings
Communicating Effectively
Handling Correspondence
Understanding Membership Topics
Attendance
Financial Responsibilities
Promoting Your Club
New Club Extension
Attending Zone Meetings
District Governor’s Club Visit
Attending Conventions
Finishing the Year .........................................................................................28
Recognition
Transitioning to the Next Leadership Team
Introduction
This manual contains helpful information to guide you through your year as a club officer. The association recognizes that each Lions club is unique, and people have diverse management styles. To accommodate these facts, there is a great deal of latitude in how you choose to manage your club—as long as you follow the basic club requirements set forth in the Standard Form Lions Club Constitution and By-Laws (LA-2).
Serving as a club officer is a privilege and honor bestowed upon you by club members. Through your election, your peers have recognized your leadership skills and potential to manage the club effectively. Your term in office will offer many opportunities to learn new skills enhance the experience of others and grow as a leader. By taking advantage of the many opportunities to learn and grow, your term can have personal and professional development benefits that will last a lifetime.
All of the members of your club are part of your team, and it is the club officers’ responsibility to guide members toward reaching the club’s goals. Every member has his/her important role to fill, and by working together, your club will be able to meet its full potential and serve a vital role in your community.
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
Resources
There is an abundance of information, materials and people ready to assist you as you serve your term in office. You may take advantage of these resources as needed.
International Headquarters:
International Headquarters is accessible to all clubs. The staff at headquarters is ready to assist Lions with their quest for information, supplies or answers to their questions. Clubs can visit the Lions Clubs International Web site, www.lionsclubs.org.
The following description of each division within International Headquarters can also enable clubs and members to contact the appropriate division. The general phone number for International Headquarters is (630) 571- 5466.
Club Supplies and Distribution Division
E-Mail: clubsupplies@lionsclubs.org
Responsible for inventory, marketing and distribution of club supplies worldwide. Responsible for association mail operation. Manages worldwide licensing programs. Coordinates assistance to other departments that procure, inventory, promote, ship and bill Lions club materials throughout the world.
Convention Division
E-Mail: convention@lionsclubs.org
Develops, manages and coordinates all logistics and major activities relating to the international convention, DGE Seminar, and International Board of Directors meetings.
District and Club Administration Division
E-Mail: districtadministration@lionsclubs.org
Assists the administration of districts and clubs worldwide. Provides language services in the association’s official languages. Issues District Governor Team, and Club Excellence Awards and supports club development by providing clubs with the e-Clubhouse, Certified Guiding Lion Program and Club Rebuilding Awards. The four language departments serve as important communication resources.
Extension and Membership Division
E-Mail: extension@lionsclubs.org
Directs the plans, programs and internal and field operations designed to achieve membership growth through new clubs, new members and retention initiatives.
Finance Division
E-Mail: finance@lionsclubs.org
Manages the association’s resources, i.e., people and money. Directs the implementation of the association’s financial policy, including banking, transfer of funds, general accounting functions, cost accounting and investments.
Information Technology Division
E-Mail: it@lionsclubs.org
Plans, organizes and controls the overall activities of electronic data processing, including computer systems analysis, programming, data entry, and the preparation of financial, statistical, inventory and membership reports. (Web site: www.lionsclubs.org)
Service Activities Division
E-Mail: programs@lionsclubs.org
Responsible for researching, planning and developing activity-related programs. Implements board directives related to activity programs.
Leadership Division
E-Mail: leadership@lionsclubs.org
Designs, develops, implements and evaluates leadership development programs, seminars, and conferences at the international, multiple district, district and club levels. Provides online learning opportunities (Leadership Resource Center: http://www.lionsclubs.org/EN/member-center/leadership-development/index.php and curriculum tools and resources for local use.
Legal Division
E-Mail: legal@lionsclubs.org
The Legal Division is responsible for maintaining the association’s worldwide trademark registrations, global insurance program and risk management and litigation. In addition, the Legal Division provides guidance and advice to Lions on the association’s constitution and by-laws and board policy, including district elections, international director endorsement inquiries, dispute resolutions and constitutional complaints.
Lions Clubs International Foundation
Web site: www.lcif.org E-Mail: lcif@lionsclubs.org
Responsible for administration of the foundation, including promotion, fundraising, investment management, execution of grants and liaising with trustees and board of directors. The Foundation also manages emergency grants, the Sight First program, the Lions Quest program and other humanitarian grant programs, in addition to processing donations and providing recognition.
Public Relations and Communications Division
E-Mail: pr@lionsclubs.org
Coordinates and integrates communication programs encompassing public relations, internal and external communications, and LION Magazine. Provides editorial support and services for all association information bulletins, guides, program manuals and audiovisual materials. Responsible for overall production and manufacturing phases of English and Spanish editions of LION Magazine and all published literature emanating from the association.
Lions Clubs International Web Site:
The association’s official Web site, located at www.lionsclubs.org, is an essential tool for club officers. There are hundreds of pages of information on the site. The Club Resource Center includes many documents that are useful to club officers. Club officers can visit the site at http://www.lionsclubs.org/EN/member-center/managing-a-club/club-resource-center.php
On the LCI Web site, you will find basic information about the association’s programs, contact information and e-mail links to International Headquarters, various directories and an online Club Supplies section. Many publications can be downloaded, which saves both time and money.
WMMR website:
The WMMR web site, https://www3.lionsclubs.org/EN/RegisterLogin/HomeLogin.aspx offers a training area that does not require a password, and has a membership reporting area enabling club officers to view and update their club membership records each month. Adding a new member, dropping a member, transferring a member from another club and reinstating a member, as well as updating a member’s address, telephone number, fax number, e-mail address, etc. can be accomplished through this area.
Monthly service activity reporting is also completed on this Web site. Clubs can view a summary of their reported service activities and search other clubs or districts service activities that have been shared. Club service goals can be established and progress tracked toward those goals.
Member information can be downloaded for printing mailing labels and membership cards from the Reports section. In addition, club officer information can be updated and information related to a club branch affiliated with their club can be viewed and updated.
Club presidents, secretaries and treasurers need passwords to access this information. Starting in 2011-12 fiscal year, club officers will be able to choose their own password. Each officer must be registered with LCI with a unique email address. Therefore it is very important that clubs register their new officers in a timely manner, either online or with the PU 101 form, and that they include a unique email address for each officer. If a club reports only one shared email address for all the club officers, they will not have access to online reports. (Remember during July, the prior year’s passwords will expire.)For more information regarding online report filing or passwords, visit the LCI Web site, or contact the
Information Technology Division at International Headquarters. The e-mail address is wmmr@lionsclubs.org.
Standard Form Lions Club Constitution and By-Laws (LA-2):
This publication, available on the Web site, is another important item for club officers. http://www.lionsclubs.org/EN/common/pdfs/la2.pdf The Club Constitution and By-Laws outlines the structure, duties and responsibilities of Lions clubs and club officers, and is the ultimate guide for club management. Information contained within this constitution is the club’s primary governing guidelines. If your club has its own constitution and by-laws, it must conform to the Standard Form Lions Club Constitution and By-Laws.
Periodicals:
Each Lions club member receives the LION Magazine. Lions Newswire, the monthly newsletter on the association’s Web site, keeps members throughout the world informed of important events as well as Lions Clubs International policy changes and news of current Lions events and activities.
Encourage your members to visit Lions Newswire each month at http://www.lionsclubs.org/EN/member-center/online-community/news-news-online.php
International Theme:
This theme, which explains the international president’s focus for the year, is available on the association’s Web site and in the LION Magazine. It is suggested that clubs choose some activities that would reflect the International Theme priorities.
District Officers:
Club officers are encouraged to work with district officers to achieve shared objectives. Your district governor, first vice district governor, second vice district governor and region and zone chairpersons can help you with questions and problems that may arise during your year. Many districts also have materials for club use, such as a video lending library, that may be helpful. Often, past officers can offer advice based on their experience. Districts often provide a directory of district and club officers, which is useful for communication with district officers and other club officers.
Lions Clubs International Foundation:
Located at International Headquarters, Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) accepts donations from Lions and others, and uses those funds to provide grants to help meet crucial humanitarian needs of communities worldwide. It disburses grants in several categories for humanitarian projects, such as Sight First, Standard, International Assistance, Core-4 and Disaster Relief. Please contact LCIF or visit the foundation’s Web site www.lcif.org to learn more about the foundation’s programs and how your club can become involved.
Club Structure
Officers’ Duties:
Training resources presenting the responsibilities of the club president, the secretary and the treasurer are available in the Leadership Resource Center on the LCI website at http://www.lionsclubs.org/EN/member-center/leadership-development/news-train-club-officers.php
President
He/she is the chief executive officer of the club who presides at all meetings of the board of directors and the club. The president issues the call for regular meetings and special meetings of the board of directors and the club, and appoints the standing and special committees of the club while cooperating with chairpersons to ensure regular functioning and reporting of such committees. He/she sees that officers are elected as provided for by the constitution and by-laws, and cooperates as an active member of the district governor's advisory committee of the zone in which this club is located.
Immediate Past President
He/she and the other past presidents officially greet members and their guests at club meetings and represent the club in welcoming all new service-minded people in the community served by the club.
Vice President(s)
If the president is unable to perform the duties of his/her office for any reason, the vice president next in rank shall occupy his/her position and perform his/her duties with the same authority as the president. Each vice president shall, under the direction of the president, oversee the functioning of such committees of the club as the president designates.
Secretary
He/she is under the supervision and direction of the president and the board of directors, and is the liaison officer between the club and the district (single or sub and multiple) in which the club is located, and the association.
The secretary:
Submits regular monthly membership reports, service activity reports and other reports specified by the association
Submits upon request reports to the district governor's cabinet including copies of monthly membership and activities reports.
Cooperates with and serves as an active member of the district governor's advisory committee of the zone in which the club is located
Has custody of and maintains general records of the club, including minutes of club and board meetings; attendance; committee appointments; elections; member information, addresses and telephone numbers of members; members club accounts
Arranges for issuance, in cooperation with the treasurer, of quarterly or semi-annual statements to each member for dues and other financial obligations owed to the club, collects and turns dues over to the club treasurer and obtains a receipt Gives bond for the faithful discharge of his/her office in the sum and with surety as determined by the board of directors
Treasurer
He/she shall:
Receive all monies from the secretary and deposit the currency in a bank or banks recommended by the finance committee and approved by the board of directors
Pay the club’s obligations authorized by the board of directors. All checks and vouchers shall be signed by the treasurer and countersigned by one other officer, determined by the board of directors Have custody of and maintain general records of club receipts and
Disbursements Prepare and submit monthly and semi-annual financial reports to the international office of the association and the board of directors of this club
Give bond for the faithful discharge of his/her office in the sum and with surety as determined by the board of directors
Lion Tamer (Optional)
The Lion tamer is responsible for the property and paraphernalia of the club, including flags, banners, gong, gavel, song books, etc. He/she puts each item in its proper place before every meeting and returns the items to the proper storage area after each meeting. He/she acts as sergeant-at-arms at meetings, seeing that those present are properly seated, and distributes bulletins, favors and literature as required at club and board meetings. He/she ensures that new members are welcomed to the club and sit with a different group at each meeting so that the new members become better acquainted.
Tail Twister (Optional)
He/she promotes harmony, good fellowship, and enthusiasm in the meetings through appropriate stunts, games and the judicious imposition of fines on club members. There shall be no appeal of his/her decision in imposing a fine, provided, however, that no fine shall exceed an amount fixed by the board of directors of the club, and no member shall be fined more than twice at any one meeting. The tail twister may not be fined except by the unanimous vote of all members present. All monies collected by the tail twister shall be immediately turned over to the treasurer and a receipt shall be given.
Membership Director
The membership director is the chairperson of the membership committee. His/her responsibilities include:
Developing a club membership growth program and presenting the program to the board of directors for approval
Encouraging the recruitment of new qualified members at club meetings.
Ensuring implementation of recruitment and retention procedures.
Preparing and implementing member orientation sessions.
Reporting to the board of Directors ways to reduce the loss of members coordinating with other club committees in fulfilling these responsibilities serving as a member of the zone level membership committee
Board of Directors
The members of the board of directors are the president, immediate past president, vice president(s), secretary, treasurer, Lion tamer (optional), tail twister (optional), membership director, branch coordinator, if designated, and all other elected directors.
The board of directors shall have the following duties and powers:
(1) It is the executive board of the club and is responsible for the execution,
Through the club officers, of the policies approved by the club. All new business and policy of the club shall be considered and shaped, first, by the board of directors for presentation to and approval by the club members at a regular or special club meeting.
(2) It authorizes all expenditures and shall not create any indebtedness beyond the current income of this club, nor authorize disbursal of club funds for purposes inconsistent with the business and policy authorized by the club membership.
(3) It has the power to modify, override or rescind the action of any officer of the club.
(4) It ensures that the books, accounts and operations of the club are audited annually or, at its discretion, more frequently and may require an accounting or have an audit made of the handling of any club funds by any officer, committee or member of the club. Any member of the club in good standing may inspect the audit or accounting upon request at a reasonable time and place.
(5) It appoints, on recommendation of the finance committee, a bank or banks for the deposit of the funds of the club.
(6) It appoints the surety for the bonding (insurance) of any officer of the club.
(7) It does not authorize, nor permit, the expenditure, for any administrative purpose, of the net income of projects or activities of the club by which funds are raised from the public. It shall submit all matters of new business and policy to the respective standing or special club committee for study and recommendation to the board.
(8) It appoints, subject to approval of the club membership, the delegates and alternates of the club to district (single, sub- or multiple) and international conventions.
(9) It maintains at least two (2) separate funds governed by generally accepted accounting practices. The first fund to record administrative monies such as dues, tail twisting fines and other internally raised club funds. A second fund is to be established to record activity or public welfare monies raised by asking support from the public. Disbursement from such funds is to be in strict compliance with item (7) above.
Committees:
Committees contribute to the success of a club by concentrating on a specific area and making sure that the club’s goals in that area are met. Typically, committees are formed to focus on areas such as club meeting programs, community service, fundraising projects, club finances, membership development, public relations and constitution and by-laws. Clubs are encouraged to appoint an information technology chairperson to coordinate the club’s use of technology. Clubs may form additional committees as deemed necessary.
Membership Categories:
There are seven types of membership:
1.     Active
2.    Affiliate
3.    Associate
4.    Honorary
5.    Life
6.    Member-at-Large
7.    Privileged
Please refer to the Standard Form Lions Club Constitution and By-Laws (LA-2) for a description of each membership category. No individual can simultaneously hold membership, other than honorary or associate, in more than one Lions club.
Club Financing:
Most clubs use the budget system of financing. This is a practice of anticipating in advance as accurately as possible the income and expenses of your club for a specific period and then preparing a budget on that basis. Budgets should be used as guidelines for spending.
Clubs should have two budgets for their fiscal year: (1) an administrative budget and (2) an activities budget. The administrative budget is what finances club operations. Its income comes mostly from club dues. The activities budget finances the club’s activities and projects. Its income should come from special fundraising projects held by the club in the community. Income from the club’s fundraising projects cannot be used to defray the club’s administrative costs, even if the club advertises that funds raised will be used for the club’s own purposes. The club can, however, deduct the direct operating expenses of the fundraising project from the funds raised.
Lions Clubs International Trademark Policies
Lions Clubs International has a legal obligation to protect its registered trademarks. To address this need, the Board of Directors adopted the Lions Clubs International Trademark Policies. These policies define the association’s trademarks and provide members, clubs and districts (single, sub and multiple) with guidelines on how and when they can use the association trademarks.
Under these policies, Lions members, clubs and districts are automatically granted permission and license to use the association trademarks in the promotion and furtherance of Lions Clubs International’s purposes and club or district operations, such as sponsored programs, projects, community service and other events, so long as such use is done in accordance with the policies adopted by the International Board of Directors, and the trademarks are not used on any item to be sold or otherwise available from the Club Supplies and Distribution Division and official licensees.
For a complete copy of the association’s trademark policies, please refer to the Lions Clubs International Web site, www.lionsclubs.org or contact the Legal Division at legal@lionsclubs.org or (630) 571-5466, ext.360. For any questions on licensing, approval for specific use on products, goods, etc, please contact the Club Supplies and Distribution Division at clubsupplies@lionsclubs.org or (630) 571-5466, ext. 6798.
Limits on Authority
The club president has no absolute authority. The president’s authority to act must come from directives from the board of directors, the club as a whole, the club’s constitution and by-laws, or the Standard Form Lions Club Constitution and By-Laws (LA-2).
What the board of directors can and cannot do by itself is set forth in the Standard Form Lions Club Constitution and By-Laws. This information is published on the association’s Web site. Similar information may be referenced in the club’s constitution and by-laws.
Any club rule, procedure, by-law or constitutional provision that is contrary to the constitution and by-laws of the club, district, multiple district or the International Constitution and By-Laws (LA-1) is not valid.
Leadership Skills
As club officers, developing and nurturing leadership skills is very important. Club members will be looking to you for guidance, motivation and to help solve problems, if necessary. Together, your leadership team will help keep the club moving towards its goals. The Leadership Division at International Headquarters provides several resources to the district leadership development chairperson to assist you with developing critical leadership skills. The Lions Leadership Resource Center, accessible via the association’s Web site, offers easy access to leadership development tools and resources. Visit the center at,
http://www.lionsclubs.org/EN/member-center/leadership-development/index.php
Status Quo and Club Cancellation
Status quo is a temporary suspension of a club’s charter, rights and privileges, as well as obligations. Status quo clubs should not submit a Monthly Membership Report or submit changes in membership.
Justifiable conditions for placing a club on status quo include:
1.     Failure to comply with the purposes of the association or conduct unbecoming to a Lions club
2.    Failure to fulfill any obligations of a chartered club, failure to submit Monthly Membership Reports for three or more consecutive months, or failure to hold regular club meetings
3.    Failure to pay district or multiple district dues
4.    Verification of non-existing club
5.    Decision of club to disband
6.    Decision of club to merge with another club
Clubs are encouraged to consult their zone chairperson, district governor, first vice district governor and second vice district governor if any of these conditions exist in the club to prevent being placed on status quo.
If a Lions club decides to disband, the club is strongly encouraged to first contact its district governor, who will begin procedures to cancel its charter.
Financial Suspension of Clubs
A Lions club, which has an unpaid balance in excess of US$20 per member or US$1,000 per club, whichever is less, outstanding past 120 days will be placed on financial suspension, including the suspension of the club’s charter, and all the rights, privileges, and obligations of the Lions club. Suspended clubs can hold meetings to discuss the future of the club and to identify actions to take to regain an active status. Any club that has been approved for a payment plan by the Finance Division will not be cancelled, so long as it continues to fulfill its obligation per the approved payment plan.
In the event the club does not acquire an Active Status on or before the 28th day of the month following suspension, the club’s charter will be automatically cancelled. The cancellation of a club for financial suspension may be rescinded within 12 months from the date of the cancellation, in the event the club has paid their account balance in full and a completed reactivation report is received filled out by the current district governor.
Clubs on Status Quo or Financial Suspension cannot:
1.     Conduct service or fund raising activities
2.    Participate in district and multiple district functions or seminars
3.    Participate in any voting procedures outside of the club
4.    Endorse or nominate a candidate for district, multiple district and international office
5.    Submit Monthly Membership Reports and report forms
6.    Sponsor a Lions club, or organize a Leo or a Lioness club Clubs on Suspension shall:
7.    Hold meetings to discuss the future of the club and identify the steps needed to regain an active status
8.    Make payments to clear the existing outstanding balance, or request a payment plan
Club Mergers and Single Club Transfers
More information and application forms for the following may be requested from the English Language Department at International Headquarters. englishlanguage@lionsclubs.org
1.     Club Mergers: Two or more clubs may merge together, provided that both clubs are in agreement with which club will be cancelled and the name, officers and committees of the remaining club. Each club’s membership and the district cabinet must adopt a resolution supporting the merger. The remaining club must submit a Merger Request Form (DA-979) and required documents to the English Language Department. The request form and club merger procedures can be found on the association’s Web site at http://www.lionsclubs.org/EN/common/pdfs/da979.pdf
2.    Single Club Transfers: Clubs may transfer from one district to an adjacent district. The club’s membership and the district cabinets of both districts must adopt a resolution supporting the transfer. Both governors must also authorize the transfer. One of the governors submits the request and required documents to the English Language Department.

Club Name Changes
Club name changes must comply with the requirements established in Board Policy. Requests should be sent to the English Language Department at International Headquarters. To request a club name change use form DA 980 on the LCI website. http://www.lionsclubs.org/EN/common/pdfs/da980-2011.pdf
Club Officer Orientation at the District Level
Districts are mandated to offer orientation programs for club officers. These programs are beneficial to skill development and personal growth. Club officers are encouraged to attend these programs, which often take place during district conventions or special district, region or zone meetings. Contact the zone chairperson, district governor or global leadership team district coordinator for details.
CLUB MANAGEMENT
Teamwork is one of the keys to successful club management. Club officers can collectively shape the way in which they work together that will be best for all concerned. There are, however, specific responsibilities and areas of authority for each club officer. Using these as a guide, your leadership team can determine the most effective way to manage your club throughout the year.
Beginning the Year
Preparation:
Many officers find it helpful to begin preparation for their year before taking office, using many available resources to learn more about their club and the international association. The outgoing officers can be most helpful during this time; however, make sure that you do not interfere with their leadership until you officially take office.
Setting Goals:
Most people will agree that setting goals and developing a plan to achieve those goals is one of the keys to success. Working with your leadership team, consider creating a strategic plan outlining your club’s goals for the year and how you intend to reach them. Resources on setting goals can be found in the Leadership Resource Center.
Making Committee Assignments:
One of the most important responsibilities of a club president is making committee chairperson assignments. Experience worldwide shows that a member who is actively engaged in club activities will continue to be a club member.
Presidents should confer with their vice president(s) before assigning chairpersons since the vice president(s) may work closely with committees throughout the year. Consider matching committee assignments to your members’ skills and knowledge when choosing chairpersons. If the current club president agrees, your chairperson appointments may be announced before you officially take office.
Throughout the year, the club’s leadership team should work closely with the committee chairpersons to keep them informed, encouraged and motivated.
During the club president’s term, he/she will need to form the Nominating Committee. Please note that, according to the Standard Form Lions Club Constitution and By-Laws, the committee should be functional by March, and club elections must take place by April 15. Information about elected officers is to be reported on the Officer Reporting Form (PU-101) or through the membership reporting area of the association’s Web site.
Selecting Service Activities:
Generally, service activities fall into three areas:
1.     The annual International Theme which details the priorities that the international president will emphasize.
2.    Ongoing and traditional activities of Lions Clubs International, such as blindness prevention, diabetes awareness, environmental services and youth programs.
3.    Activities those are relevant to the unique needs of your community.
Most clubs try to achieve a balance between these three areas when prioritizing activities for the year. It is also a good idea to review your club’s goals before choosing activities. Most importantly, look at your resources closely—time, budget and volunteer support—before committing to a project.
Determine Record Keeping Methods:
There are many ways to keep records for the club. It is a good idea for club officers to meet and determine how meeting minutes, and financial and membership records will be kept. At the end of the year, records should be turned over to the succeeding officers.
Know Your Forms:
Take time to familiarize yourself with the various forms clubs submit on a regular basis. Please note that most of these forms are available for submission online via the association’s web site Club Resource Center at http://lionsclubs.org/EN/member-center/managing-a-club/club-resource-center.php
Monthly Membership Report (MMR) - (C-23-A): Every Lions club uses this form to report its monthly membership. The report is submitted to International Headquarters either by mail, fax or online through a membership site on the association’s Web site. To submit the membership report online, go to www.lionsclubs.org and click on Submit Reports in the right corner of the screen. A password is required to use the membership site. Questions about passwords or questions can be directed to wmmr@lionsclubs.org. Refer to the Complete Reference Guide located on the Web site for answers to any questions.
Paper reports (MMR) must be received by International Headquarters by the 20th of the current month.
Electronic versions of the Monthly Membership Report (WMMR) must be filed by 12:00am Central Standard Time, by the last day of the current month.
A chart of the dates that a report can be filed is shown below:
Month MMR Reporting WMMR Reporting
July - July 1 – July 20 July 1 – July 31
August - August 1 – August 20 August 1 – August 31
September - Sept 1 – Sept 20 Sept 1 – Sept 30
October - Oct 1 – Oct 20 Oct 1 – Oct 31
November - Nov 1 – Nov 20 Nov 1 – Nov 30
December - Dec 1 – Dec 20 Dec 1 – Dec 31
January - Jan 1 – Jan 20 Jan 1 – Jan 31
February - Feb 1 – Feb 20 Feb 1 – Feb 28
March - March 1 – March 20 March 1 – March 31
April - April 1 – April 20 April 1 – April 30
May - May 1 – May 20 May 1 – May 31
June - June 1 – June 20 June 1 – June 30
As a club makes changes to their membership online, the changes occur automatically. Changes can continue to be made online throughout the month. The report is cut off on the last day of each month, and no further changes can be made for that month. Additional changes must be included in the next month's report.
PLEASE NOTE: A club cannot file future reports months in advance. If a month’s report is missed, the transaction should be included in the next month’s paper submission or entered into WMMR.
Either the paper or electronic (web) Monthly Membership Report must be submitted each month even if there are no changes in membership.
Club Officer Report (PU-101):
Clubs submit their officer contact information on this form annually on paper or through the membership reporting area of the association’s Web site by May 15.
Clubs submitting a paper copy should return the original copy to International Headquarters and forward a copy to your district governor. Remember to include current unique email addresses to facilitate establishing club officer passwords.
Monthly/Yearly Club Activity Report (A-1):
Club secretaries can report their club’s activities online directly through the association’s Web site by following these simple steps:
- Log onto the Lions Web site: www.lionsclubs.org
- Click on the banner that reads: Submit Reports at the top of the page
- Select the appropriate Lions logo
- Enter a member number and password to enter the WMMR site and complete the service activities report
The online site:
- Allows a secretary to report activities monthly
- Automatically tabulates each club’s information in a summary report and eliminates the need to submit a separate year-end report
- Provides space for supplemental information about club activities (English only)
- Allows governors, vice governors and cabinet secretary/treasurers to view all club reports in the district
- Allows club secretary to view other clubs’ and districts service activities that have been shared
- Allows club to enter service goals and track their progress to completing goals
The online report has replaced the paper report form. Secretaries should use the online report to ensure inclusion of their club’s service activities in the year-end summary that is published after July 15, the cutoff date for activity information from the previous Lions year.
For more information, contact programs@lionsclubs.org or call International Headquarters at extension 6924.
Club Supplies Order Form (M-74):
This form is used to order club supplies from International Headquarters. Remember to allow plenty of time for orders needed by a certain date. Only club presidents and secretaries can place orders. Clubs may place orders and download the order form through the association’s Web site.
The Club Supplies and Distribution Division at International Headquarters have many additional forms that can be very helpful for club management. Please refer to the Club Supplies Catalog.
Fiscal Responsibilities:
There are several important financial issues that should be addressed as you begin your year.
Preparing the Budgets: Developing the club’s administrative and activities budgets is one of the most important responsibilities of the treasurer. He/she works with the Finance Committee and club president to prepare them. It is important to anticipate revenue and income carefully and prioritize spending needs when developing the budgets. Monitoring them throughout the year will help ensure your club remains solvent.
Handling Banking Issues: The treasurer and Finance Committee will recommend a banking institution to the board of directors, as well as suggest officers for signing and co-signing checks. It is also recommended that a signature card be on file with the bank, limits set regarding the amount of petty cash the club will handle and a system for reimbursement established.
Establishing Club Dues: The treasurer, in cooperation with the Finance Committee and upon approval of the board of directors and club members, establishes the amount for the annual club members’ dues. When determining this amount, consider how much money will be needed to maintain the financial health of the club. The club dues should also include district, multiple district and international dues. Club dues are typically collected in advance, semiannually or annually. Invoices are usually sent to club members approximately 10 days before the start of the dues-paying period.
Throughout the Year
Conducting Meetings:
The club president presides at all meetings of the club. Preparing and following an agenda as well as using a recognized system of parliamentary procedure (such as Robert’s Rules of Order) will ensure the meetings run smoothly and productively. Parliamentary procedure will also help you assert yourself when necessary and handle disharmonious behavior. Handling problems that occur during meetings is not always easy. Your members expect, and have confidence in the club president to lead during these times.
Agenda formats vary from club to club and may be tailored to meet your club’s individual needs. A typical club meeting or board of directors meeting format:
Call to order by president
Introduction of guests
Program (guest speaker, entertainment, etc.) may either precede or follow the business portion
Reading and approval of minutes of previous meeting
Treasurer’s report
Old or unfinished business
New business
Adjournment
The club secretary typically has numerous duties for these meetings:
Creating an agenda in conjunction with the president;
Notifying participants of the time and location of the meeting;
Recording minutes during the meeting;
Recording attendance, makeup meetings and awards presented.
Communicating Effectively:
For a club officer, it is vital that the lines of communication remain open among members of the leadership team as well as between the leadership team and the board of directors, club members, district officers and the community. Keeping these people up to date on club news, issues, etc. and helping them work through challenges will be an important part of your year. If disputes arise between any member or members, and the club, consult the dispute resolution provision in the Standard Form Lions Club Constitution and By-Laws (LA-2).
Handling Correspondence:
Club officers often handle an abundance of correspondence. Correspondence should be answered promptly and professionally to ensure the efficient running of the club.
Understanding Membership Topics:
There are several membership topics of which club officers should be aware.
Eligibility: Any person of legal majority of good moral character and reputation in your community is eligible for membership in your club. Lion’s club membership is by invitation only. New members are recommended to the club as prospective members by using the Invitation-Application for Membership Form (ME6B). Any member dropped from membership may be reinstated within twelve months by a majority vote of the board of directors. Where more than twelve months have elapsed, the member must return to the club as a new member.
Membership in a club may be one of several categories. A description of each category is found in the Standard Form Lions Club Constitution and By-Laws (LA-2), which is available on the association’s Web site. Membership Key Award information is in publication ME 36 on the website.
Family Membership Program provides families with the opportunity to join a Lions Club, upon invitation, under a special family dues concession. The program is designed for either existing members who wish to invite other family members to join their club and for clubs that wish to expand their community service by involving more families from the community they serve, subject to the provisions and regulations as determined by the International Board of Directors.
This program is open to family members who are above the age of majority, living in the same household, belonging to the same club, or wishing to join the same club as an existing family member. New family members must be invited and approved by the club’s board of directors. In case of young adult family members between the legal age of majority and under age 26, the same household residency requirement is not required if attending an institution of higher education or serving in the country’s military.
For the purpose of the Family Membership program, the eligibility definition for families shall be as follows:
A family includes all members living in the same household related by birth, marriage, adoption, and other legal dependents, including such common family relations as parents, children, spouses, aunts/uncles, cousins and grandparents, and in-laws and other legal dependents.
The first member of the family shall pay the normal entrance fees and full international dues (as well as any applicable club, district or multiple district dues). Subsequent family members, up to a limit of four more, who meet the qualifications, pay one half of the normal international dues and are exempt of any entrance fees. All qualifying family members shall be active members with all rights and privileges.
To qualify for the family membership dues rate in the semi-annual per capita billing cycle for Lions Clubs International dues, existing qualifying family members shall need to be certified and reported as family members by May 31st and November
30th in order to be billed at the discounted family rate for that upcoming respective per capita billing cycle.
Additional information about the Family Membership Program can be found on the association’s Web site. http://www.lionsclubs.org/EN/member-center/membership-and-new-clubs/invite-members/family-membership/index.php
Student Member and Leo to Lion Program provide students with the opportunity to join any Lions club, including campus clubs, upon invitation, under a special student dues concession. The program is designed for Campus Lions clubs and for clubs that wish to expand their humanitarian service by involving more students from the community they serve, subject to the provisions and regulations as described below.
This program is open to students between the age of legal majority in the jurisdiction in which they reside and through the age of 30. For the purpose of this program, the eligibility definition for student shall be as follows:
A student is an individual enrolled in an educational institution. New student members must be invited and approved by the club’s board of directors.
Student members, who meet the qualifications, pay one half of the normal international dues and are exempt of any entrance fees. Districts and multiple districts may exempt or lower their dues for student members as deemed appropriate. All qualifying student members shall be active members with all rights and privileges.
Graduated Leos, current and former Leos between the age of legal majority in the jurisdiction in which they reside and through the age of 30 shall qualify for the Student Member Program upon the submission of the Leo Club Completion of Service Certificate and Student Member Certification Form. Enrollment in an educational institution is not required.
Additional information on the Student Member Program http://www.lionsclubs.org/EN/member-center/membership-and-new-clubs/invite-members/programs-mem-student.php
And Leo Conversion Program http://www.lionsclubs.org/EN/member-center/resources/forms/resources-forms-youth.php is on the association’s Web site.
Transfer Members: The club may grant membership on a transfer basis to a Lion who has terminated or is terminating his/her membership in another Lions club, provided that:
The member was in good standing with the former club, the transfer occurs within twelve months of being reported as a dropped member, the transfer is approved by the board of directors
Both clubs involved in a member transfer must report the member on the MMR or WMMR. It is no longer necessary to send a copy of the Transfer Member Form (ME-20) to International Headquarters.
Reinstated Lions Service Credit: This benefit will allow Lions who have had previous breaks in Lions membership to claim their time served, in good standing, and apply it to their current Lions membership record as prior years. This benefit does not apply to former members who were dropped for non-payment of dues.
Recruitment and Retention: Membership recruitment and retention are vital to the success of a Lions club. Planning and implementing recruitment and retention strategies can help your club thrive.
Please contact the Extension and Membership Division, memberops@lionsclubs.org, at International Headquarters regarding membership issues, including programs and resources for your club’s important membership recruitment and retention efforts.
Attendance:
It is the responsibility of the club officers to monitor attendance of members, establish make-up rules and verify that members have fulfilled attendance requirements. Through the Club Supplies Catalog, perfect attendance awards are available for members who have attended every regularly scheduled meeting for twelve months or more, making up missed meetings in accordance with the club’s policies. The period may begin with any given month. The Lions Clubs Online Store address: www2.lionsclubs.org
Financial Responsibilities:
The club treasurer is responsible for making payments for items purchased by the club, as well as district, multiple district and international dues.
Each month, the club treasurer will receive an itemized statement of charges and credits from International Headquarters, if transactions occurred, or if the club maintains a balance on its account. These charges and credits may include per capita dues, entrance fees, charter fees, and prorated dues for new members, fees for reinstated members, dues for transfer and life members, and club supplies. It is the responsibility of the club treasurer to review the statement for accuracy and submit the statement to the club’s board of directors for approval. The treasurer should also monitor the billing statements for credit of payments received by LCI. If a payment is not shown on the next billing statement, resend the payment identification information to the Accounts Receivable and Club Account Services department email accountsreceivable@lionsclubs.org or by fax 630-571-1683
Payment is expected within the established terms for all club account balances. A club which has an unpaid balance in excess of US$20 per member or US$1,000 per club whichever is less, outstanding past 120 days will be automatically suspended, including the charter, rights, privileges, and obligations of the Lions Club. In the event the club does not reach an active status by the 28th of the following month, the club’s charter will be automatically cancelled.
Club treasurers should comply with the following instructions to ensure that the club’s account is properly credited with payments.
Lions Clubs International Payment Instructions
After the club’s board of directors has approved the monthly statement, the club treasurer is responsible for submitting a payment to the association’s bank account. If LCI does not have an account in the country, payment is made through the district governor.
In all instances, please write the complete club name, club number, and the purpose of the payment on the front of the check or deposit slip. The club number and the complete club name are the most important to ensure the payment is credited to the club’s account. When making a deposit, it is very important to send a copy of this information to the Accounts Receivable and Club Account Services department by fax 630-571-1683 or email: accountsreceivable@lionsclubs.org
Specific payment instructions by country are available on the association’s Web site. These instructions are also included with clubs’ monthly statements. Club treasurers should visit http://lionsclubs.org/EN/member-center/resources/finance/resources-finance-instruct.php
US DOLLAR PAYMENTS - When making payment with a US dollar draft drawn on a United States bank or branch, the payment should be mailed to the association’s lockbox (Note: Please do not write deposit information on the back of a check.

The International Association of Lions Clubs
35842 Eagle Way
Chicago, IL 60678-1358 USA
US DOLLAR WIRE TRANSFERS - When making payment with a US dollar wire transfer, include the complete club name and club number in the transfer instructions, and wire the funds to the following association account:
JP MORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A.
131 South Dearborn Street - 6th floor
Chicago, Illinois 60603, USA
Swift Number: CHASUS33
Routing (ABA): 0210 0002 1
Account Number: 105732
Beneficiary name: The International Association of Lions Clubs
United States wire transfers require the routing ABA#. International wire transfers require the Swift Number.
Clubs submitting US dollar wire transfers or non-US currency drafts or wire transfers should fax deposit information to the Accounts Receivable Department to ensure accurate and timely crediting of payments. Include a copy of the wire or deposit slip along with the club name, club number, amount to be credited to the club account and purpose of payment. Please fax information to 630-571-1683.
NON-US DOLLAR PAYMENTS - When making a payment with a non-US currency draft or wire transfer, the funds should be deposited in a local country association bank account. The local country association bank account location and account number can be obtained from your district governor, Accounts Receivable Department or the association’s Web site. If there is no local association bank account, contact the Accounts Receivable Department at International Headquarters.
CANADIAN PAYMENTS – When making a payment with a US dollar check on a Canadian bank or a Canadian check on a Canadian bank, the payment should be mailed to the association’s lockbox:
The International Association of Lions Clubs
P.O. Box 2425, Station
Toronto, Ontario
M5W 2K5
Direct any inquiries concerning the club’s account to the Accounts Receivable Department. The fax number is 630-571-1683. The e-mail address is accountsreceivable@lionsclubs.org.
Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) Payment Instructions:
In order to ensure that your donation reaches LCIF, it is crucial to indicate that the donation is intended for LCIF.
US dollar checks drawn on US financial institutions as payments to LCIF should be mailed to:
Lions Clubs International
Department 4547
Carol Stream, Illinois 60122-4547
USA
US dollar wire transfers intended for LCIF should be sent to:
Lions Clubs International Foundation
JP Morgan Chase Bank, N.A.
131 South Dearborn Street – 6th Floor
Chicago, IL 60603 USA
Account Number: 754487312
Routing ABA #: 0210 0002 1
Swift Code: CHASUS33
Please specify on the wire instructions that the donation or payment is intended for LCIF. Please include complete payment or donor information. Notify LCIF via e-mail, lcif@lionsclubs.org or fax 630-571-5735 of an incoming wire transfer.
The following options are available for non-US dollar donations or payments:
US dollar wire transfers
US dollar deposits made to an LCI US dollar bank account
Non-US currency deposits made to a local LCI bank account
Credit card payments charged in US dollars only
OTHER FINANCIAL INFORMATION
The association’s web site at http://www.lionsclubs.org/EN/member-center/resources/finance/index.php contains valuable information about:
Exchange rates
Payment instructions
Unidentified deposits
To access any of these pages, log on to www.lionsclubs.org and click on the Member Center, Resources, Finance, then select the page needed.
Exchange rates are updated on the 1st of every month and the unidentified deposits are updated on the 15th of every month.
Statements sent to club treasurers contain the monthly exchange rates established by the association. Remember, if a payment is made in subsequent months, the association’s Web site posts the current month’s rate of exchange.
Unique payment instructions, by country, are sent with the monthly statements of accounts. Payment instructions are also available on the association’s Web site.
Sometimes a payment cannot be identified. The payment information is given to the district governor. Unidentified payments are also posted on the association’s Web site. The club treasurer should confirm that each payment is credited to the club account. Contact the Accounts Receivable Department with proof of payment for payments that are not credited to the club’s account.
Preparing Financial Reports: Most of a treasurer’s time during a board meeting is spent presenting and explaining the financial report. It is important to choose a format for the report that is clear, easy to follow and accurate. Some items to include in the report:
Itemized income and expenses for the period since the last financial report.
The amount budgeted for expenses.
The net monetary assets of the club at the beginning and end of the reporting period.
A running total of the amount of money the club actually spent on community projects versus the same figures from the previous year.
Promoting Your Club:
How your club is perceived in the community is essential to its success. Developing and implementing a comprehensive public relations program will help ensure that community members support your club. This program will encompass both ongoing club publicity, and promoting special events, such as fundraising and service activities. Equally important is internal communication. Many clubs worldwide find that preparing a club directory and publishing their own newsletter help keep their members informed. Another communications tool that is becoming essential is a club Web site. The site can reach your audiences—both internal and external.
E-Clubhouse: The e-Clubhouse enables clubs to build a free Web site and enhance their presence on the Web by using fill-in-the-blank fields and pre-formatted templates to make giving clubs a polished and tech savvy appearance easy. The e-Clubhouse also provides consistency with the new Lions branding while enabling clubs to preserve their individuality. The site includes a club calendar, club projects, photo gallery and contact us page to help tell others about their Lions club. Up to five more pages can be added. It’s up to the club to key in information and to determine how it will be used for their club. Encourage clubs to develop their own Web presence with the e-Clubhouse by going to the LCI Web site: www.lionsclubs.org/EN/member-center/managing-a-club/e-clubhouse.php
New Club Extension:
Organizing a new Lions club in nearby areas is an effective way to bring additional people into the association. New clubs increase the number of Lions who help those in need. The association offers a variety of options for forming new clubs including: new century, campus, Lioness/Lions, and traditional community clubs. The club branch program can also reach new communities. Please contact New Clubs and Marketing Department at International Headquarters for information on the different types of clubs, as well as club organization kits.
Attending Zone Meetings:
Zone meetings are very helpful for club officers. These local gatherings allow clubs to exchange ideas regarding programs, projects, fundraising, and membership issues, and offer a forum for establishing cooperative relationships between clubs. Zone meetings are also an opportunity to meet other Lions from your area.
District Governor’s Club Visit:
The district governor or his/her designee visits clubs in the district to evaluate the operations of the clubs and discuss Lions business matters. Clubs are encouraged to use this visit to strengthen their relationship with district officers. After setting a date for the visitation, clubs should give him/her time on the agenda to address members. Throughout the year, clubs are encouraged to inform the district governor about major activities. A governor or his/her designee may visit clubs in the districts individually or jointly at the zone level.
Attending Conventions:
Attendance at conventions—including district, multiple district and international—is a wonderful way to learn more about the association, get motivated and meet fellow Lions.
Finishing the Year
Recognition:
Recognizing club members, community residents and those who have been helpful to your club is a wonderful way to end your year in office.
Recognizing Club Members: Recognition is an excellent way to maintain morale in the club. Clubs may determine guidelines for honoring the service of its members. The secretary is responsible for maintaining accurate awards records and ordering awards. Suitable awards honoring outstanding service are available from the Club Supplies Catalog. Awards should be ordered as early as possible to ensure timely delivery.
Holding Appreciation Dinners: Many clubs choose to hold an appreciation dinner for all community residents who have helped their club through the year. It is a good opportunity to say thanks to everyone.
Applying for the Club President Excellence Award:
The application should be completed by the club secretary, signed by the respective district officers, and returned to the English Language Department for processing. Applications received after the deadline will not be considered for the award. The deadline date is printed on the application. The application can be downloaded from the association’s Web site.
Club officers are encouraged to work with district officers to achieve shared objectives.
Transitioning to the Next Leadership Team:
Just as you may have looked to the sitting club officers for advice before you took office, the incoming members of the leadership team may look to you for advice. If asked, brief them regarding the status of the club, and any other pertinent information. The transfer of club records to the next leadership team is necessary and important. Discuss any plans or projects that are not completed that will continue into the next year.
Enjoy the opportunity to be one of the leaders of your club. You not only represent your club, but also the district and association as you work with club members and the community throughout the year. Your term as a club officer can be a rewarding experience, personally and professionally. Your efforts are highly valued and appreciated. Have fun and good luck!
We Serve
The International Association of Lions Clubs
300 W. 22nd Street, Oak Brook, IL 60523-8842, USA
Phone: (630) 571-5466, Fax: (630) 571-1693
E-mail: englishlanguage@lionsclubs.org
LA-15 2011-2012 Printed in the USA

[ Posted by Lalit Niranjan ]

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