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The Melvin Jones Fellowship is the backbone of LCIF, providing 70 percent of the foundation's revenue. A recognition of humanitarian work, an MJF is an honor presented to those who donate US$1,000 to LCIF or to people for whom a donation was made by others. Melvin Jones Fellows receive an attractive lapel pin, a plaque and a congratulatory letter.

Melvin Jones Fellows who make additional US$1,000 donations to LCIF, or in whose name US$1,000 donations are made, become part of the Melvin Jones Fellowship Progressive program. Progressive Melvin Jones Fellows receive a new lapel pin and congratulatory letter for each subsequent US$1,000 donation. (The first lapel pin is a one-diamond yellow gold pin. For each US$1,000 donation thereafter another diamond is added to the pin.)

To apply for a fellowship, complete the MJF Application form (LCIF-42M). For the recognitions available, download the LCIF Recognition Programs form (LCIF-42R).

Contributions can be made by individuals (including non-Lions), clubs or districts. Contributions can be made in one sum, or in installments of a minimum of US$100 over a five-year period.

It is possible to make a donation and choose the MJF recipient later. Write "Melvin Jones Fellow to be named later" on the check or bank draft.

When an individual's or group of individuals' personal donation(s) are accumulated for a club's use to select a Melvin Jones Fellowship recipient, LCIF needs the signed consent of the donors. When a club's donation(s) are accumulated for a fellowship recipient to be selected by the district, LCIF needs the signed consent of the club. Please include such documentation with the completed MJF application that is sent to LCIF Donor Services.

Melvin Jones Fellows are honored each year at the Melvin Jones Fellow Luncheon on Thursday during the International Convention. The luncheon also typically includes a presentation to 100 percent Melvin Jones clubs and to individuals who have supported LCIF and the showing of a LCIF video.

For more information on Melvin Jones Fellowships, contact LCIF Donor Services Department at 630-571-5466, ext.404 or e-mail us.

MJF FAQs:

• The Fellowship was established in 1973 and the Progressive program began in 1986 in response to Lions' request for a way to extend their commitment to LCIF.
• Donations through MJFs provide 70 percent of the Foundation's annual revenue.
• There are 100 levels in the Progressive program.
• Most of the funds raised during the first Campaign SightFirst were through MJF donations.
• There are 281,850 MJFs worldwide and 50,582 PMJFs
• The MJF luncheon began in 1984 and has been held at each convention since
• All MJFs are invited to the annual luncheon and their names are on a rotating computer list of donors in the MJF room at International Headquarters
• The MJF is LCIF's highest honor