United States Junior Chamber of Commerce

Overview

The United States Junior Chamber of Commerce, commonly known as the Jaycees or JCI USA, is a non-profit leadership training service organization and civic organization dedicated to developing young people between the ages of 18 and 40. It is a branch of Junior Chamber International (JCI) and focuses on business development, management skills, individual training, community service, and international connections.

History

The roots of the Junior Chamber movement date back to 1915 in St. Louis, Missouri, where Henry Giessenbier and a group of young men formed the Young Men's Progressive Civic Association (YMPCA). This organization evolved over time into the Junior Chamber of Commerce, and by 1920, the United States Junior Chamber of Commerce (USJCC) was officially formed in St. Louis with Giessenbier as its first national president[1][2].

Throughout its history, the organization has been involved in numerous community and national projects, including initiatives like "Know America First," fire prevention efforts, and aviation development. Notably, the Jaycees worked with Charles A. Lindbergh to develop the U.S. Air Mail Service[1][4].

Mission and Activities

The mission of the U.S. Junior Chamber is to provide opportunities for young people to develop personal and leadership skills through service to others. The organization emphasizes community service, business development, and international connections. Members engage in various projects at local levels, contributing to community needs and enhancing personal growth and leadership skills[2][4].

Notable Members

The U.S. Jaycees have included several notable figures among their members, such as U.S. Presidents Gerald Ford and Bill Clinton, business leaders like Bill Gates, and public figures including Elvis Presley and Charles Lindbergh[2].

Evolution and Inclusion

Historically, the Jaycees were initially a male-only organization. However, following a U.S. Supreme Court ruling in 1984 in Roberts v. United States Jaycees, the organization opened its membership to women in 1985, ending the separate women's organization known as Jayceettes[2].

Current Status

Today, the U.S. Junior Chamber continues to operate as a significant part of Junior Chamber International, with members across the country focusing on community service, leadership development, and international cooperation. The organization remains a non-profit civic entity, registered under Internal Revenue Code 501(c)(4)[2].