Chicago Healthcare Alliance Lions Club [CHALC]: Elevating Service, Leadership and Legacy at the 2026 Districk 1A Convention

From March 20–22, 2026, Lions across the district gathered at the prestigious Westin Chicago Northwest in Itasca, Illinois, for the annual District 1A Convention, a dynamic celebration of service, leadership, and fellowship. Among the distinguished clubs in attendance, the Chicago Healthcare Alliance Lions Club (CHALC) emerged as a powerful example of what it means to lead with purpose and serve with impact.
A defining moment of the convention was the warm welcome extended to guest speaker PID Justice Christopher Shea Nickell of Paducah, Kentucky, USA, who attended alongside his wife, Lion Carolyn S. Watson, MD. Their presence inspired attendees and reinforced the enduring global mission of Lionism, to serve humanity with compassion, integrity, and dedication.
At the center of CHALC’s achievements was its President, Lea Agaton, who was honored with the highly esteemed Lion of the Year Award. Each year, the District Governor undertakes a rigorous and thoughtful selection process to identify a Lion whose service stands above the rest. Candidates are evaluated through a comprehensive point system that measures participation, attendance, service initiatives, leadership involvement, and overall contributions to the community. The final decision, guided by a panel of judges and confirmed by the District Governor, ensures that the award reflects true excellence in service. Lion Lea Agaton’s recognition is a testament to her visionary leadership, tireless commitment, and measurable impact in advancing the mission of Lionism.
In addition to this distinguished honor, Lion Lea Agaton was also awarded the Progressive Melvin Jones Fellow 1 Diamond (PMJF-1 Diamond) which is a prestigious recognition presented by the Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF). The Melvin Jones Fellowship is one of the highest forms of acknowledgment within Lions Clubs International, honoring individuals who significantly support humanitarian efforts worldwide. Achieving a progressive level reflects sustained dedication and a profound commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
CHALC’s success was not limited to individual accolades; it was a collective triumph that showcased the club’s creativity, unity, and spirit of excellence. The club proudly received the Unique and Creative Gift Basket Award, a reflection of innovation and teamwork, skillfully crafted by Assistant Treasurer Marie Joy Carino. Adding to the celebration, Assistant Secretary Edith Pallarca brought excitement to the delegation by winning a brand-new 55” TCL TV during the LCIF raffle draw.
Demonstrating leadership at the district level, Lion Lea Agaton, serving as District 1A LCIF Coordinator, presented a comprehensive report highlighting the district’s achievements and continued commitment to humanitarian service. Together with PDG Lion Austin D’Souza, LCIF Co-Coordinator, she also led the presentation of Melvin Jones Fellow awardees, recognizing individuals whose generosity fuels meaningful global impact.
A particularly proud and significant milestone for CHALC during the convention was the induction of three new members, further strengthening the club’s mission and reach:
• Lion Manjoo Thakkar (Sponsor: Lea Agaton)
• Lion Habibi Mohiuddin (Sponsor: Manjoo Thakkar)
• Lion Spiro Encina (Sponsor: Louella Marie Encina)
Their induction symbolizes CHALC’s continued growth and its commitment to cultivating leaders dedicated to service.
True to the spirit of District 1A, the convention offered not only recognition and education but also meaningful fellowship. The hospitality rooms became vibrant spaces where camaraderie flourished among representatives from 69 clubs, reinforcing the bonds that unite Lions in a shared mission of service.
The success of this remarkable convention is credited to the leadership of District 1A Governor Richard Moy and First Lady Edith Moy, along with the dedicated efforts of the organizing team. Their commitment ensured a seamless, inspiring, and impactful gathering for all.
The Chicago Healthcare Alliance Lions Club’s achievements at the 2026 District 1A Convention stand as a compelling testament to its dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to service. The value of CHALC’s presence at the convention was clearly reflected through its delegates, who represented the club with dignity, enthusiasm, and a deep sense of pride, reinforcing CHALC’s reputation as a leader in service and community impact. CHALC continues to inspire, lead, and transform communities which is setting a standard of excellence for Lionism in action.
With great pride, we affirm: We Lead to Serve, and Serve to Lead.
Submission by Lea Agaton