by Doreen Martel

Created on: January 14, 2010   Last Updated: February 11, 2010

Lions Clubs International is one of the oldest service organizations that exists.  Originally founded in Oak Brook Illinois, Lions Clubs has designated each "District" that has joined the organization by a number. Illinois is "1" since this was where the first club was started.  Lions Clubs became international in 1920 when Canada joined the association.

What do Lions do?

Lions Clubs Internationals original mission was for businessmen to contribute to their community as a group. Over the years, the mission of Lions became more clearly defined. Helen Keller pleaded with Lions at their convention in 1925 to become "her knights of the blind in the crusade against darkness".  Since that day, Lions have dedicated thousands of hours to that cause. In fact, Lions have contributed more money to eradicating preventable blindness than any other organization or any other government.

How does one become a Lion?

Lions worldwide join the organization by being invited by another Lion.  This is true in the more than 45,000 clubs that exist worldwide (as of January 2010).  Lions Clubs are all over the world and Clubs can be located in more than 200 geographic locations.  Each club sets dues that are paid by members. 100% of dues pay for administrative functions of the individual Lions Clubs.  Lions Clubs Constitution and By-Laws prohibit any funds collected from the public to be used for administrative expenses.  100% of all donations must go to charity.

Milestones

Lions Clubs International has achieved many milestones since they were established. In 1925 Lions Clubs International was the first non-governmental organization asked to assist the United Nations drafting their mission. In 1957 the first Leos Club was established (in Pennsylvania) allowing the youth of the communities to help with community service.  In 1968 Lions Clubs International formed "Lions Clubs International Foundation". This foundation provides Lions Clubs, Lions Districts and Lions Clubs Multiple Districts opportunities to assist in programs they might not otherwise be able to fund on their own.  In 2007, Lions Clubs International Foundation was recognized by the Financial Times as the number one non-governmental organization.

Local Efforts

Local Lions Clubs are often involved with efforts on a local level. You may see carnivals, pancake breakfasts, comedy nights and other events that are sponsored by Lions Clubs. In addition, Lions Clubs sponsor youth groups including sports, bands, speech contest and peace poster contests. Lions Clubs International tracks all of the service hours that are expended by Lions Clubs around the world.   You may also find your local Lions Clubs collecting eyeglasses - these are distributed internationally to countries where there is dramatic need for eye wear.

International Efforts

Lions Clubs International supports disaster relief in all areas of the globe.  During Hurricane Katrina, the Tsunami in South Asia, the World Trade Center attacks in 2001, the Philippines typhoon and during the tragedy in the aftermath of the  Haiti earthquake, Lions have been on the scene doing what they can do to help alleviate suffering.  Offering physical, financial and other assistance, Lions make a difference.

Summary

The motto of Lions Clubs International is "We Serve" - and serve they do. In every corner of the globe, taking on projects big and small, Lions Clubs International is an organization that helps alleviate human suffering.

Source: http://lionsclubs.org/EN/about-lions/

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