History
Celebrating the 90th Anniversary of JCI's First Local Organization
2004 marked the 60th Anniversary of JCI (Junior Chamber International) as an international organization. In 2005, we are celebrating the 90th Anniversary of JCI's First Local Organization, which was originally established under the name of "Young Men's Progressive Civic Association (YMPCA)."
In order to tackle difficult civic problems while helping young people develop their business skills and effectiveness, Henry "Hy" Giessenbier, Jr., gathered 32 young men and established the Young Men's Progressive Civic Association (YMPCA), JCI's First Local Organization, at the Mission Inn in St. Louis, Missouri, on October 13, 1915.
Kevin Cullinane, 2005 JCI President, is encouraging JCI Local Organizations around the globe to celebrate this 90th anniversary by conducting membership drives and special meetings. Since 1915, countless dedicated young leaders like Giessenbier have ensured the organization's progress. Their contributions must not be forgotten.
The historic information presented here is an effort to honor those leaders. Thanks to contributions from former JCI Presidents, Board Members, Staff Members, Members in general and collaborators, we have gathered significant historic details. JCI publications have also been used as reference. We hope JCI's history will also serve to inspire future generations of JCI Members to emulate their predecessors and take the organization to higher and higher levels of accomplishment.
CLICK HERE TO VISIT JCI HISTORY WEBSITE