Since 1917, Lions clubs have offered people the opportunity to give something back to their communities. From involving members in projects as local as cleaning up an area park or as far-reaching as bringing sight to the world's blind, Lions clubs have always embraced those committed to building a brighter future for their community.
Today with more than 45,000 clubs in 199 countries and geographical areas, Lions have expanded their focus to help meet the ever-increasing needs of our global community.
Our programs are continually changing to meet new needs and greater demands, but our mission has never wavered: "We Serve."
We Serve - Nearly 1.4 million Lions members in 193 countries and geographic areas answer the needs that challenge the communities of the world. Lions tackle tough problems like blindness, drug abuse prevention and diabetes awareness.
Global neighbours - Lions members - men and women - provide immediate and sustained relief in time of disaster and offer long-term assistance to those in need. Lions collect and recycle eyeglasses for distribution in developing countries and treat millions of people to prevent river blindness.
Community Leaders - Lions improve the quality of life in their local communities by building parks, supporting hospitals and establishing water treatment programs.
For 87 years, whenever there is a need at home or around the world, Lions members are there to help - We Serve
Lions Membership
Hiistory of Lions Clubs
The Emblem
Mission, Purposes & Ethics
Service to Others
Worldwide, Lions clubs are recognized for their service to the blind and visually impaired. This service began when Helen Keller challenged Lions to become "knights of the blind in the crusade against darkness" during the 1925 Lions Clubs International Convention.
Today, Lions extend their commitment to sight conservation through countless local efforts, as well as through their international SightFirst Program and Lions World Sight Day, a global partnership of United Nations agencies, eye care and philanthropic organizations and health professionals, held the second Thursday of each October to increase awareness of the need to eradicate blindness. Lions also collect and recycle eyeglasses for distribution in developing countries year-round and especially during May, which is Lions Recycle for Sight Month.
In addition, Lions make a strong commitment to young people through youth outreach programs. Lions also work to improve the environment, build homes for the disabled, support diabetes education, conduct hearing programs and, through their foundation, provide disaster relief around the world.
Based on a recent report of Lions clubs worldwide, it is estimated that each year Lions clubs donate approximately US$506 million and 71 million hours, which is equivalent to 34,000 people working full time for a year.
Since 1917, Lions clubs have offered people the opportunity to give something back to their communities. From involving members in projects as local as cleaning up an area park or as far-reaching as bringing sight to the world's blind, Lions clubs have always embraced those committed to building a brighter future for their community.