Service has been the hallmark of Lions Clubs International since it was founded in 1917. Lions Clubs International Foundation was begun in 1968 to take that service to new levels by tackling global problems as well as assisting Lions with local humanitarian projects too big for them to do on their own.

Since its first grant of US$5,000 in 1972 for flooding, LCIF has given out US$604 million in grants to improve the lives of people worldwide. From its modest beginnings, LCIF has evolved to become an internationally recognized humanitarian organization and the largest blindness prevention organization. LCIF is able to stretch its funds by partnering with other non-governmental organizations and partner corporations. Excluding the SightFirst program, the foundation now grants, on average, $15 million dollars a year.

LCIF is particularly proud of the SightFirst program, launched in 1990 to reduce preventable blindness worldwide. Lions contributed US$144 million to fund the program, which to date has provided $211 million in sight-related grants. Through SightFirst, Lions are restoring sight and preventing blindness. SightFirst targets the major causes of blindness: cataract, trachoma, river blindness, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma.