Morice Norris Returns to Lions Facility

Lions Clubs International is the world’s largest service club organization, founded in 1917 by Melvin Jones, a Chicago business leader who envisioned putting people’s talents to work to improve their communities[1][2]. It began as the Association of Lions Clubs in Chicago and quickly grew from a national to an international organization, now operating in more than 200 countries with over 1.4 million members across 46,000+ clubs[1][4][5]. The organization’s mission is to empower volunteers to serve their communities, address humanitarian needs, promote peace, and foster international understanding[1]. Lions are deeply involved in diverse service projects such as neighborhood improvement, environmental conservation, educational and literacy programs, aid to the blind and hearing-impaired, disaster relief, pediatric cancer support, and hunger alleviation[2]. Additionally, Lions support youth through affiliated Leos clubs for ages 12 to 30, promoting leadership and community service among younger generations[2]. Governance and operations are structured with elected officers and committees at club and district levels, focusing on membership, program development, public relations, and fundraising. Importantly, funds raised from the public go directly to community service rather than administrative costs, reflecting the organization’s commitment to transparency and integrity[3]. Notable milestones include rapid international expansion by 1920 with the first club outside the U.S. in Windsor, Canada, and continuous global growth, including recent establishment in Saudi Arabia in 2019[4][5]. The organization holds annual international conventions bringing members worldwide to share ideas, elect leaders, and celebrate achievements[4]. Lions Clubs International is headquartered in Oak Brook, Illinois, and maintains a reputation for a steady vision and a clear mission sustained over more than a century[1][2]. In summary, Lions Clubs International represents a century-old, globally influential humanitarian network that leverages volunteerism and community-driven projects to address social challenges, embodying the ethos, “Where there’s a need, there’s a