Who We Are

The World's Largest Service Organization

Lions Clubs International is a global network of 1.4 million members united through 50,000 clubs serving communities in nearly every country around the world. Guided by the motto "We Serve", Lions and Leos improve lives through humanitarian service, leadership, and community development.

Founded in 1917

Established by Melvin Jones, Lions Clubs International has been serving communities worldwide for more than a century.

Global Presence

Operating in nearly every country with 50,000 clubs committed to humanitarian service.

1.4 Million Members

Lions and Leos work together to serve millions of people through compassion, leadership, and volunteerism.

Our Motto

"We Serve" represents our commitment to improving lives through kindness, unity, and humanitarian service.

1917

Founded

1.4M+

Members

50K+

Clubs

200+

Countries
Our History

Making history every day

With every project completed and every life touched, Lions Clubs International continues to write its remarkable history. For more than a century, Lions have united communities, inspired hope, and served millions of people across over 200 countries and geographic areas through humanitarian service.

1917

The Beginning

Chicago businessman Melvin Jones founded Lions Clubs International, bringing together business leaders to serve their communities through volunteerism.

1920

Lions Go International

The first Lions Club outside the United States was established in Windsor, Canada, making Lions an international organization.

1925

Knights of the Blind

Helen Keller challenged Lions to become "Knights of the Blind", inspiring the organization's lifelong commitment to vision care.

1945

Uniting Nations

Lions participated in establishing the NGO section of the United Nations, reinforcing their commitment to global peace and cooperation.

1957

Leo Clubs Introduced

The Leo Program was launched to develop young leaders through volunteer service, leadership, and community engagement.

1968

LCIF Established

Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) was created to support humanitarian projects and provide grants around the world.

1973

One Million Members

Lions celebrated a historic milestone by welcoming its one millionth member, expanding its global impact.

1985

Disaster Relief Expansion

LCIF awarded its first Major Catastrophe Grant, strengthening Lions' ability to respond during natural disasters.

1990

SightFirst Launched

The global SightFirst initiative began to prevent blindness and restore vision, improving the lives of millions worldwide.

2017

100 Years of Service

Lions celebrated its Centennial, marking a century of service and humanitarian leadership across the globe.

2022

Campaign 100 Success

LCIF exceeded its Campaign 100 fundraising goal by raising US$325 million to support humanitarian service worldwide.

2023

Partnering for Kindness

Lions joined the Choose Kindness Project to promote youth mental wellness, inclusion, and bullying prevention.

Today

Continuing the Legacy

Today, more than 1.4 million Lions in over 49,000 clubs serve communities across 200+ countries and geographic areas, improving millions of lives every year.

What We Do

Making a Difference Across the World

Lions Clubs International addresses some of the world's greatest humanitarian challenges through eight global causes that improve lives and strengthen communities.

Vision

Preventing blindness and improving eye health through screenings, treatment, and vision care initiatives.

Environment

Protecting nature through tree plantation, conservation, clean water, and environmental sustainability.

Hunger

Providing nutritious food and supporting communities facing food insecurity around the world.

Diabetes

Raising awareness, promoting healthy lifestyles, and supporting diabetes prevention and care.

Childhood Cancer

Providing hope and support for children with cancer and their families through humanitarian service.

Disaster Relief

Delivering emergency assistance and rebuilding communities affected by natural disasters.

Youth

Empowering young people through leadership, education, volunteering, and Leo Clubs.

Humanitarian Service

Serving communities with compassion through healthcare, education, relief, and social welfare initiatives.

Worldwide Reach

Our Global Impact at a Glance

200+

Countries & Geographic Areas

Serving communities worldwide

1.4M+

Members Worldwide

Dedicated volunteers making a difference

49000+

Lions Clubs

Serving locally with global strength

Millions

Lives Impacted Every Year

Through humanitarian service