International Association of Lions Clubs

The International Association of Lions Clubs, commonly known as Lions Clubs International, is a global non-political service organization. It was founded on June 7, 1917, by Melvin Jones, a Chicago business leader, with the aim of transforming local business clubs into community service groups. The organization is headquartered in Oak Brook, Illinois.

History

Initially focused in the United States, Lions Clubs expanded internationally with the establishment of the Border Cities Lions Club in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, on March 12, 1920. By 1925, Lions Clubs had spread to 44 countries. Today, Lions Clubs are present in over 200 countries, making it one of the largest service organizations in the world.

Mission and Activities

The mission of Lions Clubs International is to empower volunteers to serve their communities, meet humanitarian needs, encourage peace, and promote international understanding. Key activities include sight conservation, hearing and speech conservation, diabetes awareness, youth outreach, environmental conservation, and disaster relief. The organization is known for its motto: "We Serve." Discussion of partisan politics and sectarian religion is prohibited within club meetings.

Programs and Initiatives

Notable programs include the Lions Clubs International Foundation, which provides grants for large-scale humanitarian projects. The foundation supports sight conservation programs, such as SightFirst and the Lions Eye Health Program, and aids initiatives like disaster relief and youth development through the Leo Club Program.

Structure and Membership

Membership is open to anyone willing to serve their community. The organization is structured with local clubs led by presidents and boards of directors, governed by an international board and president. As of recent data, Lions Clubs International includes over 1.4 million members in more than 46,000 clubs.

Impact

Lions Clubs International has made significant contributions globally, including playing a key role in the reduction of river blindness and supporting global initiatives like childhood blindness prevention. The organization collaborates with entities like the United Nations to achieve its humanitarian goals.