Since 1917, Lions clubs have offered people the opportunity to give something back to their communities. From involving members in projects as local as cleaning up an area park or as far-reaching as bringing sight to the world's blind, Lions clubs have always embraced those committed to building a brighter future for their community.
Today with more than approximately 46,000 clubs in 207 countries and geographical areas, Lions have expanded their focus to help meet the ever-increasing needs of our global community.
Our programs are continually changing to meet new needs and greater demands, but our mission has never wavered: "We Serve."
Lions are active. Our motto is "We Serve." Lions are part of a global service network, doing whatever is necessary to help our local communities.
Lions give sight. By conducting vision screenings, equipping hospitals and clinics, distributing medicine and raising awareness of eye disease, Lions work toward their mission of providing vision for all. We have extended our commitment to sight conservation through countless local community projects and through our international SightFirst Program, which works to eradicate blindness.
Lions serve youth. Our community projects often support local children and schools through scholarships, recreation and mentoring. Internationally, we offer many programs, including the Peace Poster Contest, Youth Camps and Exchange and Lions Quest. And our Leo Program provides personal development through youth volunteer opportunities. There are approximately 144,000 Leos and 5,700 Leo clubs in more than 140 countries worldwide.
Lions award grants. Since 1968, the Lions Clubs International Foundation has awarded more than US$700 million in grants to support Lions humanitarian community projects around the world. Together, our Foundation and Lions are helping communities following natural disasters by providing for immediate needs such as food, water, clothing and medical supplies – and aiding in long-term reconstruction.
The first Cedar Hill Lions Club formed in 1950 with Martin L. Clark and Millard Potter as founding members. This club eventually dissolved.
In October 1971 Greg Patton joined the Lions Club in Cedar Hill. The club struggled because of lack of membership but remained active for about 3 years.
The third Lions Club to form in Cedar Hill began on 4 March 1978, with Past International President W. R. 'Dick' Bryan as Charter Night Speaker....and Greg Patton was Second Vice President; Don Chattin was Charter President.
In 1983 the current Cedar Hill Lions club formed. George Conn was instrumental. Traphene Hickman encouraged the club but could not join because no females were allowed to join at the time. Now woman are actively involved and encouraged to join the Cedar Hill Lions Club.
Today the Cedar Hill Lions Club has more than 50 members. They are men and women of the community who give back to the community by sponsoring various activities and charities.
The Cedar Hill Lions Club was recognized on July 19, 2009, by Immediate Past District Governor Alice Conway as the club with the largest net increase in membership in Lions District 2X1 during the previous year. Thanks to Lion Horace Williams and others who brought in our new members.
Lions are men and women dedicated to serving those in need, whether in their own community or halfway around the world. In addition to humanitarian service, they enjoy fellowship and develop leadership skills.
The Name "Lions"
The official name of "Lions" is "The International Association of Lions Clubs" or simply "Lions Clubs International."
Mission Statement
To create and foster a spirit of understanding among all people for humanitarian needs by providing voluntary services through community involvement and international cooperation.
Motto
The Lions motto is "We Serve."
Slogan
Liberty, Intelligence, Our Nation's Safety.
Official Colors
Purple and gold were chosen when the association was founded in 1917. Purple represents loyalty to country, friends, to one's self and to the integrity of mind and heart. It is the color of strength, courage and dedication to a cause. Gold symbolizes sincerity of purpose, liberality in judgment, purity in life and generosity in mind, heart and commitment to mankind. Often, a dark blue is used in place of purple.
Official Emblem
The current Lion emblem (or logo) was adopted at the 1919 convention. Today, Lions worldwide are recognized by it. It consists of a gold letter "L" on a circular purple (or blue) field. Bordering this is a circular gold area with two lion profiles facing away from the center. The Lions face both past and future – showing both pride of heritage and confidence in the future. The word "Lions" appears at the top, and "International" at the bottom.