In 1917, a young Chicago insurance salesman named Melvin Jones, a member of a wealthy businessmen's club, convinced his fellow members that they should seek out a means to help the less fortunate in their community. Their efforts resulted in the International Association of Lions Clubs.  Today, Lions has grown to become the world's largest service organization with more than 1.3 million members in 45,000 Lions Clubs in 205 countries and geographic areas around the world!

The Lions' motto is "We Serve", and this simple phrase sums up the central purpose of Lions Clubs everywhere - voluntary service to their community, their nation, and the world.

Located in beautiful Shelter Island, New York, the Shelter Island Lions Club was chartered in 1950 and has remained a strong, vital club for 59 years with more than 80 members currently.  The Club is one of 57 clubs in District 20-S — the Lions Clubs of Suffolk County, New York, USA and provides support for hundreds of youth and adults on the East End, Shelter Island and around the world through Lions International.

The Shelter Island Lions Club is a non-political, non-religious organization, pleased to welcome all adults who are committed to community service and the high ideals of Lionism.    If you might be interested in learning more about Club membership, please send an e-mail note to Membership@ShelterIslandLions.org.