In 1917, Melvin Jones, a 38-year-old Chicago business leader, told members of his local business club they should 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, an organizational meeting was held on June 7, 1917, in Chicago, Illinois, USA. The new group took the name of one of the invited groups, the “Association of Lions Clubs,” and thus began the rich tradition of service that Lions Clubs are known for around the world.
Lions Club International Foundation and the Melvin Jones Fellowship Lions around the world are united by a great spirit of giving and dedication to helping others. As the official charitable organization of Lions Clubs International, Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) supports Lions’ compassionate works by providing grant funding for their local and global humanitarian efforts.
A significant portion of the funds raised by LCIF comes through the Melvin Jones Fellowship. Our club honors our most dedicated and generous members with a nomination to the Melvin Jones Fellowship. The nomination is accompanied by a monetary donation from the JC Host Lions Club to LCIF.
The Melvin Jones Fellowship is the highest form of recognition that a Lion can receive for their charitable work.
