Lions Clubs International is the world’s largest community service organization with clubs around the world. 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 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.

The Lion Clubs began in 1917 as a dream of Chicago businessman Melvin Jones. He believed that local business clubs should expand their horizons from purely professional concerns to the betterment of their communities and the world at large. In 1925, Helen Keller addressed the Lions International Convention in Ohio. She challenged the Lions to become, “knights of the blind in the crusade against darkness.” From this time, Lions have been actively involved in service to the blind and visually impaired.In addition to sight programs, Lions Clubs International is committed to providing services for the youth. 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.

Lions Clubs International headquarters is located in Oak Brook, Illinois.