Getting Started
Join the Inclusion Revolution.
Champions Lions Clubs
What is a Champions Lions Club?
A specialty branch of Lions Clubs International dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through inclusive sports, leadership, and community service. Champions Lions Clubs are created in partnership with Special Olympics and are dedicated to ensuring that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) have meaningful access to sports training, competition, leadership development, and community engagement.
The mission is straightforward: to build a world where everyone is included, celebrated, and empowered.
Inclusive Sports Volunteering at Special Olympics events and supporting Unified Sports programs where athletes with and without IDD compete together.
Health & Fitness Hosting health events and fitness programs specifically designed to serve individuals with IDD in the local community.
Advocacy & Leadership Fundraising for athlete training, travel, and equipment—and opening pathways for people with IDD to lead and serve.
Who Can Join?
Anyone with a passion for inclusion, sports, and service is welcome. Members come from every background—and individuals with IDD are not just participants, they are leaders. That is what makes these clubs uniquely powerful.
Special Olympics athletes
Coaches and families
Educators and health professionals
Community volunteers
Youth and young professionals
Individuals with IDD
"Champions Lions Clubs are about more than volunteering—they are about building friendships, changing perceptions, and empowering people of all abilities to lead and serve."
Start a Champions Lions Club in Your Community
Do you believe in the power of sports and inclusion? SOLA Lions Club is proud to support others in launching their own Champions Lions Club. Here is how to get started.
Step 1 — Gather a Team You will need at least 20 members to charter a new Lions Club. Bring together individuals who are passionate about inclusion, sports, and community service.
Step 2 — Define Your Mission and Goals Focus your club on supporting inclusive sports programs such as Special Olympics Unified Sports, fitness initiatives, athlete leadership programs, and local health events for individuals with IDD.
Step 3 — Get Support from SOLA Lions Club We are here to mentor and guide you every step of the way—from planning your first meeting to submitting your charter application. You will not be starting from scratch.
Step 4 — Work with Lions International Once you are ready, we will help you complete the official chartering process with Lions Clubs International and connect you to the broader Champions Lions network.
Step 5 — Start Serving Begin organizing events, volunteering at local Special Olympics competitions, and fundraising to support athletes in your area.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you are a parent, coach, athlete, or community leader, you can help bring inclusive sports to life through service.
Contact us by email at hello@solalions.org or by phone at (323) 248-1182 to learn more.
