In 1917, over 90 years ago, a group of independent clubs responded to an idea presented to them by a young Chicago insurance agent, Melvin Jones.  The idea was for these clubs to provide service as a group to their fellow men without regard to politics, religion, race or in any way the personal interest of the members.  This was a sharp departure from the trend at that time for clubs to be primarily commercial in motive.  A conference was held by 25 independent clubs on June 7, 1917, and from this meeting Lions Clubs in America was born.  The first convention was held in Dallas, Texas, in October of that year, and Dr. W. P. Woods of Indiana was elected to be the first president.  Melvin Jones was named acting Secretary, thus beginning a lifetime association with Lionism that ended with his death in 1961 At this convention, the colors of purple and gold were approved and the Lionism Objects and Code of Ethics were written.  Community and business leaders began organizing Lions Clubs throughout the United States and in 1920 the Windsor, Ontario Lions Club was chartered, thus making the Association of Lions Clubs international. Today with more than 45,000 clubs in 199 countries and geographical areas, more than 1.35 million Lions have expanded their focus to help meet the ever-increasing needs of both our global and local communities. Our programs are continually changing to meet new needs and greater demands, but our mission has never wavered: WE SERVE.

Special emphasis is given to the blind and hearing impaired because Helen Keller challenged the Lions to become "Knights of the blind in the crusade against darkness" during the 1925 International Convention.  Read her moving speech by clicking on the Helen Keller link.

Lions have tackled other tough problems such as drug abuse and diabetes awareness.  They provide immediate and sustained relief to those who are in  need  resulting from disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis and hurricanes.

Lions collect and recycle eyeglasses for distribution in developing countries and treat millions of people to prevent river blindness.

Lions Clubs International has established a Fund from which grants can be made to address these needs,. 

A special outreach of LCIF was established to tackle the problem of curing preventable blindness.  You can learn more about Lions Clubs International Foundation and Campaign SightFirst II by clicking on the LCIF link.

Lions serve throughout the world, but each Club places the special needs of the local community high on the club's agenda.