The Bedford Village Lions Club is a group of volunteers who are part of a worldwide network of organizations meeting and serving the humanitarian needs of their respective communities.  The Lions’ motto is simply “We Serve”.  Our club acting through its foundation fulfills this motto by hosting community activities; providing financial support for local charities with an emphasis on those organizations that support the visually impaired, elderly and physically disadvantaged; and dispensing academic, science and nursing scholarships to the youth of our community enabling them to reach their full potential.

Lionism dates back to 1917, in response to a dream by a young Chicago insurance man Melvin Jones who wondered why local business clubs should not expand their horizons from purely business concerns to organizations providing service for the betterment of their communities and the world at large.  Jones' idea struck a chord with his own group and they authorized him to explore his concept with similar organizations from around the United States.  After contacting these groups, his efforts resulted in an organizational meeting on June 7, 1917.  The new group took the name of one of the groups invited the "Association of Lions Clubs," and a national convention was held in Dallas, Texas in October of the same year.  Thirty-six delegates, representing 22 independent clubs attended and approved a constitution, by-laws, objects and code of ethics defining what the association was to become.  As a bit of history trivia, the delegates to the convention elected Dr. William P. Woods as their first President.  Guiding force and founder, Melvin Jones was named acting Secretary.  Since that humble beginning, Lions club members have volunteered their time and talents to meet humanitarian needs wherever they exist. 

Lions are especially dedicated to serving the blind and visually impaired, a commitment made after Helen Keller challenged the Lions to become "knights of the blind in the crusade against darkness" during the 1925 Ohio convention.

Our motto "We Serve" exemplifies the dedication of all Lions in helping those in need worldwide.