Funds raised
not 'trivial'
PUTNAM — The Putnam Lions, since 2017, have raised more than $12,000 for local charities through its Trivia Night.
In 2016, Putnam Parks and Recreation Director Willie Bousquet was leading a monthly trivia event. But Bousquet’s schedule was very busy and at the end of 2016 he decided that he would need to step away from emceeing these nights.
The Putnam Lions had been chosen to be the recipients of the donations
one night.  After that night, many of the members continued to attend trivia and truly enjoyed the camaraderie and spirit of the event. When Bousquet said he was stepping down, Lion Greg King suggested that the Putnam Lions take over.  
A committee was formed with Lions Steve and Leia Faucher co-chairing.  The Putnam Lions thought it would be a fun way to get together and continue to honor their goal of giving back to the community.
In January 2017 the Lions held their first trivia at the former Athen’s Pizza.  Unfortunately, during 2017 the Lions would lose their location when the pizzeria closed. The Crossings Restaurant and Brew Pub stepped up as a host and also provided gift certificates to use as prizes.
During 2017, Putnam Lions Trivia Nights raised $3,402 for local charities.  In 2018, the amount increased to $4,159.  2019 proved to be another banner year with $4,230.  Overall, from 2017 to date, the trivia nights have added $12,772 and that is in addition to the amount the Lions regularly donate to the community through their Night of Giving.  It has also given the Lions the ability to extend their support to agencies they otherwise would be unable to include in their normal annual budget.
The first trivia event in January 2017 raised $170 that was donated to Putnam EMS.  The Lions and the Putnam EMS were thrilled.  On the fourth anniversary of the Putnam Lions Trivia, $981 was collected for the DKH Woman’s Board. The Lions and the Woman’s Board were amazed. What started with a humble suggestion in 2017 has grown into a dynamic opportunity for community good.

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