OUR STANDARDS
OF SERVICE & ETHICS
Two complementary commitments — one governing how we treat one another, one guiding how we carry ourselves in the world. Together, they define what it means to be part of this community.
OUR PREAMBLE
"We believe that service is not just what we do — it is who we are. This is not a list of rules imposed from above. It is a shared promise we make to each other and to the communities we serve. We hold ourselves to these principles not because we are required to, but because we believe they represent the best of what it means to be a neighbor, a volunteer, and a human being."
Empowering Others is open to all who wish to serve. Our only requirement for membership and participation is agreement with these standards. They are living documents — ones we will review and update as our community grows and as our world changes.
These standards are inspired by and adapted from the Lions Clubs International Code of Ethics, which has guided service organizations for over a century. We honor that tradition while expressing these values in the plain, direct language of our time.
CODE OF CONDUCT
Ten commitments that govern how we behave within our community — toward fellow members, volunteers, partners, and the people we serve.
Integrity
I will act with honesty, integrity, and responsibility in all of my actions, decisions, and service.
Respect
I will treat every person with dignity and respect, creating an environment free from harassment, discrimination, intimidation, or bullying.
Inclusion
I will welcome and value people of all backgrounds, cultures, abilities, and perspectives, helping ensure everyone feels included and respected.
Service Before Self
I will place service above personal recognition or gain and focus on making a positive difference in my community and the world.
Support for Others
I will encourage, mentor, and support others, helping fellow Lions and community members grow and succeed.
Responsible Communication
I will communicate respectfully and thoughtfully in person and online, choosing words that uplift rather than harm.
Accountability
I will take responsibility for my actions, learn from mistakes, and continually strive to improve.
Protecting the Reputation of Lions
I will conduct myself in a way that reflects positively on Lions Clubs International and the communities we serve.
Respect for Laws and Policies
I will follow applicable laws and the policies, bylaws, and procedures of Lions Clubs International and my local club.
Servant Leadership
I will lead through service, humility, and compassion—placing the needs of others first and striving to embody what it means to be a Servant Leader.
CODE OF ETHICS
Eight principles that guide our personal character — how we pursue success, build relationships, and show up for the world around us.
Excellence in Service
I will show my belief in the value of service by giving my best effort, pursuing excellence, and earning a reputation for integrity and quality in all I do.
Success With Character
I will strive for success and fair reward for my work, but never at the expense of my character, my values, or another person's well-being.
Collaboration Over Competition
I will grow and improve through collaboration, not competition—lifting others up as I advance, remaining loyal to those I serve, and staying true to myself.
Choosing the Harder Right
When faced with ethical uncertainty, I will choose the path that upholds honesty, fairness, and compassion—even when it is the harder choice.
Genuine Friendship
I will cherish friendship as a purpose, not a strategy—knowing that true friendship is built on trust, respect, and kindness freely given without expectation.
Global Citizenship
I will honor my responsibilities as a global citizen—supporting my community, my nation, and the world through my words, actions, and service.
Standing With Those in Need
I will stand with those in need—offering empathy to the distressed, strength to the vulnerable, and generosity to the underserved.
Words That Build
I will use my words to uplift, not to harm—offering encouragement, celebrating others' successes, and striving always to build rather than destroy.
ACCOUNTABILITY & ENFORCEMENT
We take our standards seriously. Members who violate these principles will be addressed through a fair, respectful process that prioritizes restoration where possible and protection of the community where necessary.
Concerns about conduct can be raised confidentially with any chapter leader or through our contact form. All reports will be taken seriously and handled with discretion. We believe that accountability, done well, makes our community stronger — not weaker.
READY TO MAKE THE COMMITMENT?
If these principles reflect your values, we'd love to have you join our community. Your agreement to these standards is all we ask.
JOIN OUR COMMUNITY