Stacey Tinsley, Bossier Press-Tribune
Shreveport-Bossier rolled out the red carpet for a special group of visitors earlier this week as representatives from Visit Shreveport-Bossier hosted members of the USA/Canada Lions Leadership Forum Site Committee for a three-day visit.
On Monday, August 11, after a full day exploring what the area has to offer, the visiting committee members joined local Lions for a Louisiana-style dinner and fellowship—capping off a day of connection, hospitality, and community pride.
The USA/Canada Lions Leadership Forum is an annual multi-day conference offering 70–80 classes on leadership, service, and community impact. It opens with “Speed Learning,” featuring a dozen rapid-fire mini-sessions in two hours, and covers topics ranging from disaster relief and servant leadership to mental health, fundraising, and engaging future generations of Lions.
This week’s visit brought eight guests—three members of the Site Committee and their spouses, along with an International Director from New Orleans and his wife. The committee’s purpose was to evaluate Shreveport-Bossier as a potential host city for the 2028 or 2029 Forum. While they do not make the final decision, they will report on the city’s readiness to accommodate thousands of attendees.
If selected, the event would take place at the Shreveport Convention Center, with visitors staying, dining, and enjoying activities throughout Shreveport and Bossier City. This would mark the first time the region has been considered for hosting such a major Lions Clubs International event.
“We can always count on our Northwest Louisiana Lions to show up! Lions ROAR!! We had strong representation from Bossier City, Bossier City Central, Greenwood, Lions Camp Virtual, Louisiana Animal Rescue Angels, Minden Evening, and North Shreveport. Your presence made a huge difference—thank you, Lions!,” said Scott Harkey, PCC, North Shreveport Lions Club.
The final decision on the host city for the 2028 or 2029 Forum will be made at a later date, but the enthusiasm from both visitors and local Lions is already roaring.
The Lions Club is one of the largest and most active service organizations in the world, dedicated to improving communities and helping people in need.
Put simply — the Lions Club combines hands-on local service with global resources, making a real difference wherever they are.