Melvin Jones Fellowship Recipients

The fellowship, which was created in 1973, takes its name from the founder of Lions Clubs International (LCI), Melvin Jones. It is an honor — not an award. The fellowship was established as LCIF’s highest form of recognition to acknowledge an individual’s dedication to humanitarian service.

The fellowship is symbolized through an inscribed plaque and a lapel pin presented to the recipient. Because of the nature of the fellowship, it can be conferred upon individuals only. The honor is not given to a Club, district, or other groups. It is not a requirement that the recipient be a Lion. A Melvin Jones Fellowship may be given to honor the memory of a deceased individual.

River Falls Melvin Jones Fellows include:

Birch-Sturm Fellowship Recipients

The Birch-Sturm Fellowship was created by the Wisconsin Lions Foundation to honor those individuals who exemplify undying dedication and commitment to Lionism. The fellowship is named after Frank V. Birch and Clarence L. Sturm, the only International Presidents from Wisconsin. The program somewhat mirrors the Melvin Jones Fellowship program in that it honors individuals through a plaque, lapel pin, patch and name inscribed on the Master Plaque at the Wisconsin Lions Foundation office.

River Falls Birch-Sturm Fellows include:

Roger Horness Service to Youth and Community Award

The Roger Horness Service to Youth and Community Award honors Mr. Roger Horness who was a long time member of the River Falls Lions Club and active community participant. The award honors a River Falls citizen, member or non-member, annually who in the spirit of Roger Horness serves to make the River Falls community better. The award became the combined Youth and Community award in 1987.

Lion of the Year

The Lion of the Year award was first given in 1980 and then annually from 1985 on to recognize the outstanding service of an individual Lion during a given service year.