PAST LUNCH SPEAKERS – MARCH 2026
MATHEW DOWNING
​
Organization: Little Friends
Date: March 3, 2026
​​​
A huge thank‑you to Matthew Downing, Director of Grants for Little Friends, for joining us and sharing the incredible work their organization is doing.
​
Little Friends provides vital resources and support for children, adults, and families navigating autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and physical disabilities. Their commitment to empowering individuals of all abilities is exactly the kind of impact we’re proud to highlight.
​
We appreciate Matthew’s time, insight, and dedication to strengthening our community.
​
Pictured: (unknown), Mathew Downing and Lion President Dave Olson
JERRY PETERSON
​
Organization:
Date: March 10, 2026
​​​
The Wheaton Lions were thrilled to welcome Jerry Peterson, Artificial Intelligence consultant and co‑founder of Right Side, as our guest speaker. Jerry delivered an eye‑opening look at how AI is transforming small businesses everywhere — from daily operations to customer engagement to long‑term growth.
​
His insights helped our members understand not just where technology is headed, but how local businesses can adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing landscape.
​
We’re grateful for his time, expertise, and commitment to helping communities stay informed and prepared.
​
Pictured: John Swain, Jerry Peterson and Lion President Dave Olson
BARBARA CERNY
​
Organization: Ray Graham Associates
Date: March 17, 2026
The Wheaton Lions were honored to welcome Barbara Cerny, Grant Administrator for the Ray Graham Association, as she shared the incredible impact their organization makes through person‑centered services for people with disabilities and their families—helping each individual reach, grow, and achieve.
​
Pictured with Barbara are Lion Conrad Stoll and Lion President Dave Olson, representing our club’s ongoing commitment to learning, partnership, and service that strengthens our entire community.
​
We’re grateful for the meaningful work Ray Graham Association does every day and for the chance to connect and support their mission.
​
Pictured: Dr. Conrad Stoll, Barbara Cerny and Lion President Dave Olson
CHIEF PJ YOUKER
​
Organization:
Date: March 24, 2026
A huge thank‑you to Wheaton Police Chief PJ Youker for joining us and sharing an insightful update on police activity in our community. We appreciate his transparency, leadership, and willingness to answer every question we threw his way.
​
Grateful for strong partnerships that keep Wheaton safe and connected.
​
Pictured: Chief Youker and Lion President Dave Olson