Providing an opportunity to volunteer

The Ipswich Lions Club members provide a volunteer opportunity for men and women of all ages. We are committed to supporting the disabled and disadvantaged people of Ipswich and the wider community. We believe that to volunteer to help a person in need is the greatest reward of all.

What sets us apart from other volunteer organisations

The Founder of Lions International, Lion Melvin Jones changed the whole concept of club membership and of being a volunteer with his insistence upon a straightforward phrase in the constitution of Lions International.

“No club shall hold out as one of its objects financial benefits to its members”

100% of all monies raised from the public will be returned to the community through various Lions projects.

Melvin’s simple philosophy of life “You can’t get very far until you start doing something for somebody else” has become the by word of every devoted volunteer, doing something for the needy and the disabled of the world.

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 needs of their communities and the world. Jones’ group, the Business Circle of Chicago, agreed.

 After contacting similar groups around the United States, an organisational 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 a national convention was held in Dallas, Texas, the USA in October of that year. A constitution, by-laws, objects and a code of ethics were approved.

Within three years, Lions became an international organisation. Since then, we’ve earned high marks for both integrity and transparency. We’re a well-run organisation with a steady vision, a clear mission, and a long and proud history.

Our Vision

To be the global leader in both community and humanitarian service.

Mission Statement

To empower volunteers to serve their communities, meet humanitarian needs, encourage peace and promote international understanding through Lions clubs.