Lions International History:

Lionism began in June 1917, when a young Chicago Insurance agent, Melvin Jones, presented to a group of separate business clubs the idea of consolidating the individual clubs into one strong, influential organization with the goal of helping the community and serving humanity. The first annual convention was in Dallas, Texas, at the Adolphus Hotel, October 8-10, 1917. Twenty-three clubs participated. Today, more than 42,000 clubs operate worldwide. An international convention is held every year in June or July. The gathering is held in different cities around the world.

Kansas Lions History:

The first Lions club in Kansas was the Wichita Downtown Lions Club, chartered December 4, 1919, with 40 members. John H. Boys was the charter president. Two years later, he was the first district governor and in 1922 became an international director. Kansas was in the same district as Oklahoma until after the 1921 international convention in California, when Kansas became District 17. The annual state convention is held in the first weekend in June.

History of Our Chapter:

Our club was chartered in 1946 with 46 members. By that charter, the club became part of the Lion's Club International, the World's largest service organization. While Lion's Clubs around the world are best known for their service to those people with sight problems, Lions Clubs do much more. Programs at every level are available to help wherever help is needed with emphasis on sight problems, international relief and education. Over the years, our club has assisted many individuals and organizations with both physical and monetary contributions. Dues and fundraising pay for all the varied programs.