What is a Lions Club?

A Lions Club is a group that comes together and shares a common interest in community service, supporting the Lions' motto, "We Serve."

There are nearly 1.4 million men and women members of Lions Clubs in 193 countries. Lions Clubs International is the world's largest service organization.

Worldwide, Lions Clubs are recognized for their service to the blind and visually impaired. This service began when Helen Keller challenged Lions to become "knights of the blind in the crusade against darkness" at the 1925 International Convention in Cedar Point, Ohio.

Today, Lions extend their commitment to sight conservation through countless local efforts as well as through their international SightFirst program and Lions World Sight Day, a global partnership of United Nations Agencies, eye care, and philanthropic organizations and health professionals, held the second Thursday of each October to increase awareness of the need to eradicate blindness.

Lions also collect and recycle used eyeglasses year-round for distribution to developing countries--and especially in May, which is Lions Recycle For Sight month.

In addition, Lions also make a strong commitment to young people through youth outreach programs. Lions also work to protect the environment, build homes for the disabled, support diabetes education, conduct hearing programs, and through LCIF, provide disaster relief around the world.

Based on a recent report of Lions Clubs worldwide, it is estimated that each year Lions Clubs donate approximately US $506 million and 71 million hours, which is equivalent to 34,000 people working full time for a year!

How can I become a Lions Club member?

Membership is through invitation by a local Lions Club. To learn more or to be considered for membership, please contact any Lions Club in District 2-T2 or e-mail District Governor Terrell Thompson.  Some communities have more than one Lions Club with varying meeting times. (For example, one club may meet at noon while another may meet at night.)

What are the benefits of membership?

As a Lions Club member, you can experience:

• A network of people who share common interests and a commitment to service, making an impact in their local communities.

• Pride in commitment to demonstrate the Lions motto of "We Serve."

• Personal growth and leadership opportunities through mentoring and training programs.

• Fellowship with other worldwide Lions Club members at International Conventions.

• Extension of local efforts through Lions Clubs International Foundation's efforts to help citizens around the world.