History of the Lions

The International Association of Lions Clubs was born at a meeting in Chicago, Illinois on June 7, 1917.  Melvin Jones, a young insurance executive, invited members of 25 Chicago-area businessmen's clubs to meet and discuss the possibility of joining together to serve the community.  From that meeting, came a call for the Association's first national (and later international) convention.  This first convention was held October 8, 1919 in Dallas, Texas with 23 clubs from across the United States participating.  In 1925, Helen Keller challenged the Lions to become "Knights of the Blind" in the crusade against darkness.  Since that time, Lions have added other major service projects to their programs.

Each year, Lions Clubs perform service and provide goods to thousands of persons throughout the world.  Lions are proud of the fact that they perform more activities and help more people than any other service organization in the world today.

Who are Lions

Lions are members of a service-oriented international group of clubs where members enjoy fellowship, develop leadership skills, and dedicate part of their free time to help others in need in their community, and (through the Lions Club International Foundation) throughout the world.

Lions clubs are non-political, non-sectarian service organizations comprised of men and women from all walks of life.  The purpose of a local Lions Club is to recognize community needs and develop programs to meet those needs, either through its own efforts, or in cooperation with other agencies and community service organizations.

Why Become a Lion

Membership in a Lions Club means that members have the opportunity to meet and work with other individuals in a spirit of fellowship, striving towards common ideas and goals.  Through this concern for others, members have the opportunity to make suggestions, give their opinions, and take the initiative in leadership.

If interested in becoming a Lion, please contact any member (listed on the Club Officers page on this site) or join us for a 6:00pm dinner meeting at South Lafayette St. Methodist Church, Shelby, NC the 2nd Tuesday of each month.

Lions Code of Ethics

http://www.lionsclubs.org/EN/about-lions/mission-and-history/our-purpose-and-ethics.php