Although Don is new to the Niagara Region, he’s by no means new to the Lions.  Lion-ism has been an important part of Don’s life for over 30 years.  Originally from Quebec, Don joined the Knowlton Lions Club back in 1991. He had always been involved in the community in many roles, whether with the Scouting movement, through the church, Little League Baseball or volunteering to help the elderly when and where needed.  Joining the Lions, just added to his commitment to find ways to always give back.

Don was originally introduced to the Lions organization by his brother, Peter who was a member of the Knowlton Lions Club.  Because Don was often called upon to assist his brother at their events, it was a natural progression for him to join the club where he was a member for 10 years before relocating to Ajax Ontario in 2001.

Upon his retirement, Don’s wife who roots are from the Toronto area, wanted to return home, so they moved to Ajax where he transferred his Lions membership. After a few years with the Ajax Lions Club, Don transferred to the Oshawa Airport Lions Club where his experience was valuable contributor to help evolve the club by bringing in new members, organizing a district convention and introducing new fund-raising activities.

While retired in Ajax and looking for ways to fill some spare time Lion Don took on the responsibility of managing an apartment building. When Don retired for good in 2021, he and his wife decided to move to Welland to live closer to family.  Given his continued commitment to the Lions, he researched local Niagara Lions Clubs through social media, made a few phone calls and decided that the Fonthill Lions Club would be his new “Pride”.

Don’s professional background and education is in “specialized intervention” where his leadership, problem solving and negotiating skills were used in his 30-year career as a correctional services officer.  These same skills make him an important contributor to his chosen volunteer role as a Lion.

“Lions Clubs International has given me the opportunity to leverage my professional and interpersonal skills to integrate new communities.  It let me make new friends quickly. Moreover, it allows me to give to the less fortunate. I always find it very gratifying to be contributing back to local community,” said Don when asked what being a Lion means.

The Fonthill Lions have the unique distinction of being “The Motto Makers” for Lions International.  In 1954, Fonthill Lion Doug Stephenson’s motto of “We Serve” was chosen from 6,000 entries as Lions International’s global motto.

New members are always welcome to the Fonthill Lions Club.  If you are interested in finding out about the becoming a Fonthill Lion and helping to serve your local community, contact Steven Pellerin at 289-673-2933.