The journey from the Lions Pride Campaign to the establishment of the Lions Pride Endowment Fund of WI, Inc.

The Lions Pride Campaign is a testament to the power of one individual’s vision and commitment. The story began with DuWayne “Dewey” Carl, a dedicated leader who had previously served as the president of the Wisconsin Lions Foundation (WLF) and as the Past Council Chair of the Wisconsin Lions Council of Governors. Dewey’s passion for the mission of the Lions Foundation, combined with his deep love for his community, drove him to recognize an urgent need for long-term support and sustainability of WLF projects. His conviction was simple but powerful: to preserve, protect, and ensure the future of the projects that benefit the people of Wisconsin.

The Road to the Campaign

In 2003, Dewey began working on what would eventually become the Lions Pride Campaign, a major fundraising initiative aimed at strengthening and expanding the WLF’s impact. Recognizing the complexity of such an ambitious project, Dewey spearheaded the initiative by first advocating for a Feasibility Study. The WLF Board of Directors approved the hiring of a consultant to gauge the potential success of a large-scale campaign, and the results were positive.

The Formation of the Lions Pride Endowment Fund

In 2011, in response to guidance from the WLF auditor and legal counsel, the WLF Board of Directors made a pivotal decision: they established two separate 501(c)(3) corporations. One of these corporations was the Lions Pride Endowment Fund of WI, Inc., which was created to manage and grow the resources raised through the Lions Pride Campaign.

The Lions Pride Endowment Fund of WI, Inc. is managed day-to-day by Johnson Bank, with major decisions being made by an Investment Board composed of both Lions and non-Lions, all experienced financial advisors. The board operates under the guidance of two key documents: the Investment Policy and the Gift Acceptance Policy, ensuring the proper stewardship of the fund.

Dewey Carl’s Legacy

With the establishment of the Lions Pride Endowment Fund, Dewey Carl took on the role of CEO/President, where he continued to lead the effort with passion and dedication until his passing in August 2016. He was instrumental in setting the direction of the fund, and he made it clear that the mission of the Lions Pride Endowment Fund would remain constant: to preserve, protect, and provide significant financial support to the exempt projects of the Wisconsin Lions Foundation.

Though the Lions Pride Endowment Fund and the Wisconsin Lions Foundation are now legally separate entities, they share a common goal: to continue supporting the important work of the Foundation, ensuring that its projects have the resources they need to thrive.

Dewey Carl’s vision lives on through the Endowment Fund’s work, with its guiding principle encapsulated in the slogan: “Today’s Help, Tomorrow’s Hope.”

Supporting the Endowment Fund

The Lions Pride Endowment Fund offers a variety of tax-advantaged giving options for prospective donors, and its staff is available to assist with planning and information about donation possibilities. Those interested in supporting the fund can contact the Pride Office for further details about how they can contribute to preserving and growing the legacy of Dewey Carl and the Wisconsin Lions Foundation.

The campaign, and the work of the Lions Pride Endowment Fund, is a living tribute to Dewey Carl’s vision and commitment to ensuring that the Wisconsin Lions Foundation’s vital work continues to have a profound impact on the community for years to come.

For additional information and planning support about donation possibilities you are encouraged to contact the Pride Office.