National Exchange Club

The National Exchange Club is a U.S. service organization founded in 1911. It was initiated by Charles A. Berkey in Detroit, Michigan, with the name "Exchange" chosen to signify the exchange of ideas and information to improve communities.

History

The first local Exchange Club was formed in Detroit in 1911, followed by the Exchange Club of Toledo, Ohio, in 1913, and subsequently by clubs in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and Cleveland, Ohio. These four clubs were among the first chartered by the National Exchange Club after its organization as a nonprofit, educational entity in 1917. The organization's headquarters was established in Toledo, Ohio, in 1917.

Programs and Activities

The National Exchange Club focuses on three main Programs of Service:

• Americanism: Encourages patriotism and community pride.
• Youth Programs: Supports youth through scholarships, mentoring, and awards such as the Accepting the Challenge of Excellence (ACE) Award and the Youth of the Year award.
• Community Service: Engages in projects tailored to local needs.

In addition to these programs, the organization has a National Project aimed at the prevention of child abuse, officially adopted in 1979. This involves raising awareness and coordinating community-based services.

Structure and Mission

The National Exchange Club is structured into regions and districts across the U.S., with leadership at each level ensuring coordinated efforts. The organization's mission is to inspire communities to become better places to live, guided by core values of family, community, and country. It seeks to empower members and communities through service, fostering a strong America with safe communities and unified people.

Awards and Partnerships

The organization offers several awards, such as the Book of Golden Deeds Award, the Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award, and the Teacher Appreciation Day recognition. It has partnered with other nonprofits, like Veterans Matter, to further enhance its service capacity.

Membership and Reach

With over 630 local clubs and more than 18,000 members across the U.S. and Puerto Rico, the National Exchange Club is one of the country's oldest service organizations operating exclusively within the United States. Despite some discrepancies, it is reported to have around 700 clubs and over 21,000 members.