History of Lions Clubs
1917: The Beginning of Lions Clubs International
In response to social problems created by World War I and rapid industrialisation, a Chicago businessman named Melvin Jones invites business clubs from around the USA to a meeting where the association of Lions Clubs is formed.
1920: Lions Go International
Just three years after founding, Lions becomes International when the Border Cities Lions Club in Windsor, Canada is established. At the time Lions were active in 23 US States with a total of 6,400 members.
1925 : Becoming Knights of the Blind
Helen Keller addresses Lions at the International Convention in Cedar Point, Ohio, USA. She famously challenges Lions to become “knights of the blind in the crusade against darkness”. This begins a century long mission – impacting hundreds of millions of lives through vision related work.
1945: Uniting Nations
Lions and other representatives from 46 Nations meet to help establish the NGO section of the United Nations (UN), underscoring Lions International’s commitment to a “certain and lasting peace for the world.” Today Lions continue to work with the UN at the annual Lions Day with the United Nations.
1957: Leos are Introduced
The Leo program is developed to provide the youth of the world with an opportunity for personal development through volunteering. Today there are more than 175,000 Leos and 7,000 Leo Clubs in over 140 countries worldwide.
1968: Establishing our Foundation
Lions Clubs International Foundation is created, with the mission “to support the efforts of Lions clubs and partners in serving communities locally and globally, giving hope and impacting lives through humanitarian service projects and grants. Today our foundations has awarded more than $1 billion USD in grants.
1990: Launching SightFirst
Lions Launch a campaign to help restore sight and prevent blindness on a global scale. The effort raises more than $346 million, setting the stage for SightFirst II in 2005, which raises $205 million more for the cause.
