Organization

     The International Association of Lions Clubs is a worldwide, volunteer service organization. It is comprised of 1 . 4M men and women, in over 44,000 clubs in 185 countries and geographical locations. Club members participate in local and international humanitarian service projects emphasizing health , community welfare and promotion of international understanding.

     International headquarters is located in Oak Brook Illinois , USA . An international Board of Directors, elected by Lions worldwide at their annual convention, governs the association.

Lions International Objectives:

•  To create and foster a spirit of under - standing among the peoples of the world.

•  To promote the principles of good government and good citizenship.

•  To take an active interest in civic, cultural, social and moral welfare of the community.

•  To unite the clubs in the bonds of friendships, good fellowship and mutual understanding.

•  To provide a forum for the open discussion of all matters of public interest; provided , however, that partisan politics and sectarian religion shall not be debated by members.

•  To encourage service-minded men and women to serve their community without personal financial reward, and to encourage efficiency and promote high ethical standards in commerce, industry, professions, public works and private endeavors.

What do Lions do?

     Lions raise funds and give their time freely to help those who are less fortunate. Since 1925 when Helen Keller challenged the Lions to take up the cause of the visually impaired, service to the blind has been one of Lionism's most significant activities.

•  Lions operate the vast majority of eye banks throughout the world.

•  Lions have donated more than $50M toward research, training and rehabilitation for the blind and provide eyeglasses for the needy.

•  Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) disburses funds for deserving ventures that would otherwise be financially impossible.

•  The Lions-Quest "skills for Adolescents" program is teaching junior high school students to say "No" to drugs and alcohol.

•  Each summer, young diabetes victims have the opportunity to spend time together at Lions-sponsored camps. Lions also sponsor camps for blind, deaf and other physically disabled youngsters.

•  Lions conduct diabetes screenings.

•  Lions support worldwide relief for earthquake, flood and tornado victims.

•  Lions Clubs are "home rule", deciding what kind of service is best for their community.