Our History
In 1917, Melvin Jones, a 38-year-old Chicago business leader, asked members of his local business club to reach beyond business issues and address the betterment of their communities and the world. Jones’ group, the Business Circle of Chicago, agreed.
After contacting similar groups around the United States, Jones’ group hosted an organizational meeting on June 7, 1917, in Chicago, Illinois, USA. The new group assumed the name of one of the invited groups, the “Association of Lions Clubs.” A national convention was held in Dallas, Texas, USA in October of that year, where a constitution, by-laws, objects, and a code of ethics were approved.
Within three years, Lions became an international organization. Since then, we’ve earned high marks for both integrity and transparency. We’re a well-run organization with a steady vision, a clear mission, and a long – and proud – history.