Centennial Service Challenge
Lions Clubs International Announces Global Initiative
to Serve 100 Million People by 2017
Toronto, Canada, July 8, 2014 – Lions Clubs International President Joe Preston
announced a new global initiative to serve 100 million people by 2017 at the
association's 97th annual International Convention held in Toronto. The Centennial
Service Challenge is a humanitarian initiative that brings Lions clubs around the
world together in service to celebrate the association's 100th anniversary in 2017.
"This is a special time for Lions Clubs International and our members," said
International President Preston. "For nearly 100 years, Lions clubs have served
their communities and touched the lives of millions of people. The Centennial
Service Challenge is an opportunity for Lions to celebrate our 100th anniversary
by doing what we do best – serving others."
Over the next three and a half years, Lions clubs will work to achieve the goal
of serving at least 100 million people by participating in the association's Global
Service Action Campaigns, which support youth activities, vision programs, hunger
initiatives, and environmental projects around the world.
"Lions clubs are known for their efforts to save sight, but we do so much more,"
said International President Preston. "The Centennial Service Challenge highlights
the important humanitarian work we do and our impact in communities around the
world. It's an honor to lead such dedicated men and women who are working to
make their communities stronger."
Lions Clubs International is the largest service club organization in the world. Its
1.35 million members in more than 46,000 clubs are serving communities in more
than 200 countries and geographical areas around the globe. Since 1917, Lions
clubs have aided the blind and visually impaired, championed youth initiatives
and strengthened local communities through hands-on service and humanitarian
projects. For more information about Lions Clubs International, visit lionsclubs.org.