| |
1911
Dr. WP Woods of Indiana founded the Royal Order of Lions.
1916
Dr. Woods changed the name to “International Association
of Lions” and relinquished charter to the International
Association of Lions Clubs.
Melvin Jones, an Insurance man and member of the Circle
Club of Chicago had a vision of “What these men who
are successful because of their drive, intelligence, and
ambitions could accomplish were they to put to work helping
improve their communities.” He and his wife wrote
hundreds of letters inviting others to join an International
association of service clubs.
1917
Melvin invited representatives of business clubs to meet
in Chicago. A plaque, later found when the LaSalle Hotel
was demolished, stated “Lions International, founded
at LaSalle Hotel, Chicago Ill June 17, 1917. - We Serve”
The 1st Convention and adoption of a Constitution and Bylaws,
Objects and Ethics was held at the Adolphus Hotel in Dallas,
Texas on October 8, 1917. This has been recognized as the
official birthday of Lions Clubs International by establishing
October 8th as World Service Day every year. Nine states
and 27 clubs were represented at the first convention.
World War I
Efforts of Lions were devoted to Bond and Books for Troops.
During the influenza epidemic, efforts were turned to health
subjects.
1925
Helen Keller, who was both blind and deaf addressed the
Convention and challenged Lions to become “Knights
of the Blind & Hearing Impaired.” Lionism, sight,
and hearing conservation have been synonymous ever since.
1942
Dues were suspended for World War II soldiers while overseas.
1975
LCIF established as the Lions outlet for Humanitarian and
disaster relief.
1982
Texas Lion EJ “Ebb” Grindstaff elected President
and introduced two new programs -- Drug Awareness -- Diabetic
Research and Awareness.
Lions have been known worldwide for their service to those
in need, not only the blind. Our organization has grown
from 27 clubs in 1917 to over 40,000 clubs in 185 countries
and over 1,400,000 members. Thousand of persons have been
given a new life because Lions provided guidance, love,
and the material things which they never had or never dreamed
of receiving. Eye glasses, cataract operations, prosthesis,
scholarships, diabetic clinics, schools, homes, and hospitals
are just a few of the things Lions have provided. It is
such a privilege to be part of such an organization. Yes,
IT’S GREAT TO BE A LION!!
|
 |
