In 1917, Melvin Jones, a Chicago business leader, told members of his local business club they should reach beyond business issues and address the betterment of their communities and the world. Jones' group, the Business Circle of Chicago, agreed.
After contacting similar groups around the United States, an organizational meeting was held on June 7, 1917, in Chicago, Illinois, USA. The new group took the name of one of the invited groups, the "Association of Lions Clubs," and a national convention was held in Dallas, Texas, USA in October of that year. A constitution, by-laws, objects and a code of ethics were approved.
Within three years, Lions became an international organization. Since then, we've earned high marks for both integrity and transparency. We're a well-run organization with a steady vision, a clear mission, and a long – and proud – history.
Lions Clubs International Purpose:
TO CREATE and foster a spirit of understanding among the
peoples of the world.
TO PROMOTE the principles of good government and good
citizenship.
TO TAKE an active interest in the civic, cultural, social and moral
welfare of the community.
TO UNITE the clubs in the bonds of friendship, good fellowship
and mutual understanding.
TO PROVIDE a forum for the open discussion of all matters of
public interest; provided, however, that partisan politics and
sectarian religion shall not be debated by club members.
TO ENCOURAGE service-minded people to serve their
community without personal financial reward, and to encourage
efficiency and promote high ethical standards in commerce,
industry, professions, public works and private endeavors.
