As an integral part of the Lions family, Leos also have their own global network of over 6,500 Leo clubs in more than 140 nations. This international scope fosters a unique global identity among Leos and Lions. Leo clubs provide young people with an opportunity for development and contribution both individually and collectively; as responsible members of the local, national and international community.
Coach Jim Graver started the Leo ball rolling in 1957 and chances are that ball was a baseball. Graver was the baseball coach of the Abington High School in Pennsylvania, USA and an active member of the Glenside Lions club. With help from his fellow Lion, William Ernst, the first Leo club was charted on December 5, 1957.
As the world’s first Leo club, the Abington High School Leo club was created. The LEO acronym was defined as Leadership, Equality, Opportunity and their school colours; maroon and gold were chosen to serve as the Leo club colours. Later, Equality was changed to Experience. In October 1967, the board of directors of Lions Clubs International adopted the Leo Club Program as an official program of the association. The Leo Club Program has been growing strong for over 50 years in Sri Lanka. Community service remains the cornerstone of the program. Like their Lion counterparts, Leo club members enjoy serving their neighbours and watching positive results unfold.
In 1969 the first ever Leo club was inaugurated in Sri Lanka; Leo club of Wattala. The program became popular among Lions, which then paved way for many more Leo clubs. In order to better fulfill both administrative and service requirements, District 306 was divided in 1978 to two districts; namely 306A and 306B.
With this division, Sri Lanka’s multiple district 306 was born. Under the new structure, the two sub districts 306A and 306B were able to serve more effectively. With the passage of time, districts 306A and 306B expanded their network steadily. For administrative purposes, the need for redistricting was once again necessary and in 1998 the multiple district 306 was re-demarcated to three sub districts; 306A, 306B & 306C.
Due to the rapid growth of Leoism, once again in the year 2004/2005 another redistricting program was carried out re-demarcating to 6 Sub Districts; 306A1, 306A2, 306B1, 306B2, 306C1 & 306C2. However, Leos have conducted and will continue conducting various activities to the needy children and elders, furthermore the environment and healthcare as well as the betterment of the Leo movement and its members.