Lions are members of community service clubs dedicated to the idea that the men and women who live in a community are in the best position to know who needs help and why. More than 45,000 strong, these local clubs are part of the world's largest such organisation, with 1.4 million members serving in more than 200 countries and geographical areas. The association is both non-political and non-sectarian.

Founded in Chicago, Illinois, USA in 1917 by insurance agent Melvin Jones and others, Lions Clubs International has ever since offered business and professional people a way of sharing their success by helping those less fortunate than themselves.

The association became international when when a club was formed in Canada in 1920. A highlight of its' early history was a speech at the 1925 convention, when the legendary Helen Keller challenged the Lions to become 'Knights of the blind in the crusade against darkness'. They responded, and Lions are now best known for their sight related programmes, including Sight First, the world's largest blindness prevention programme.

While Lions speak many languages and profess many religious and political beliefs, they all subscribe to common objectives and ethical principles.