1.  Organized in 1917 in Chicago, Illinois.

2.  Founder—Melvin Jones, Chicago Businessman.

3.  First convention was held in Dallas, Texas in 1917, with thirty-six delegates representing twenty-two (22) clubs from nine states.

4.  First President was Dr. W. P. Woods with founder Melvin Jones being elected Secretary.

5.  The association became “International” in 1920, with the formation of Windsor, Ontario, Canada Club.

6.  Our name— The legal name of the association is “The International Association of Lions Clubs.”

7.  Our Motto— “WE SERVE.”

8.  Our slogan— “Liberty, Intelligence, Our Nation’s Safety,”

9.  Our official colors—Purple and Gold.  Purple stands for loyalty to friends, and for integrity of mind and heart.  Gold symbolizes sincerity of purpose, liberty in judgment, purity in life, and generosity in mind, heart and purse to those in need.