Whenever a Lions club gets together, problems get smaller. And communities get better. That’s because we help where help is needed – in our own communities and around the world – with unmatched integrity and energy.

The World’s Largest Service Club Organization

In 2017 we celebrate our centennial, 100 years of Service. Our 47,000+ clubs and almost 1.5 million members make us the world’s largest service club organization. We’re also one of the most effective. Our members do whatever is needed to help their local communities. Everywhere we work, we make friends. With children who need eyeglasses, with seniors who don’t have enough to eat and with people we may never meet.

Lions Clubs International – Triumph of an Idea

The International Association of Lions Clubs started with Melvin Jones, a Chicago insurance man who envisioned local business clubs focusing on community betterment. Inspired by this idea, Jones convinced his Business Circle of Chicago to pursue it, leading to an organizational meeting on June 7, 1917. Thirty-six delegates from 22 clubs across nine states attended, approved the “Lions Clubs” name, and elected Dr. William P. Woods as the first president, with Jones as acting secretary. This marked the beginning of Jones’ long association with Lionism, lasting until his death in 1961.

At the first convention, the Lions Clubs’ identity was formed with the adoption of a constitution, by-laws, and the colors purple and gold, along with defining its Objectives and Code of Ethics. A notable tenet was that no club should prioritize the financial betterment of its members. The movement quickly spread, becoming international with the first club in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, in 1920. By 1927, there were 60,000 members in 1,183 clubs. Lionism expanded to Central and South America in the 1930s and reached Europe in 1948. The first club in Japan was chartered in 1952. Today, Lions Clubs are present in over 170 countries and regions worldwide.

Our Name

The proper name of the association is “The International Association of Lions Clubs.” Many Lions, however, prefer the use of the shorter form of “Lions Clubs International.”

Our Emblem

Throughout the world, Lions are recognized by the emblem they wear on their lapels. It consists of a gold letter “L” on a circular blue field. Bordering this is a circular gold area with two lion profiles at either side facing away from the center. The word “Lions” appears at the top, and “International” at the bottom. Symbolically, the lions face both past and future — proud of the past and confident of the future. Lions wear their emblem with pride.

Our Motto

The motto of every Lion is simply “We Serve“. What better way to express the true mission of Lionism?