Who we are

We are young active citizens all over the world. Living, communicating, taking action and creating impact in our communities. Are you a young active citizen? Do you want to make a difference in your community? Join us on this journey of local action for global impact.

JCI Mission

To provide development opportunities that empower young people to create positive change.

JCI Vision

To be the leading global network of young active citizens.

Taking action & providing sustainable solutions.

JCI is a nonprofit organization of young active citizens aged 18 to 40 who are engaged and committed to creating impact in their communities. Active citizens are individuals invested in the future of our world. JCI gathers active citizens from all sectors of society. We develop the skills, knowledge and understanding to make informed decisions and take action.

Every day in over 100 countries.

As globally minded young people, we all have rights responsibilities and share goals. We find targeted solutions to local issues benefitting our communities, world, and future. Embracing new ideas, collaboration and diversity, we have the passion and courage to address the critical challenges of our time.

How is JCI different from other nonprofits?

JCI members take the initiative to solve local challenges. More than a one-time donation or service opportunity, we focus on sustainable impact locally and globally. It only takes one active citizen to change the world. Be that active citizen today.

Founding a Movement (How JCI was founded)

By the age of 18, Henry Giessenbier Jr. formed the Herculaneum Dance Club, a social outlet for the community’s youth. Unknown at the time, Giessenbier laid the foundation for what would become a global movement. On October 13, 1915, the first JCI Movement was founded when 32 men joined to form the Young Men’s Progressive Association (YMPCA) at the Mission Inn located in their hometown of St. Louis, USA.

Active Citizen Framework

Today’s global challenges require innovative and creative solutions. JCI empowers young people to become active citizens, take responsibility for global challenges in their community and identify targeted, sustainable solutions. Motivated by the passion for transforming their community and the world, JCI members dare to address the most critical challenges of our time.

Designed to address all types of community challenges, the Active Citizen FrameworkTM outlines a methodology for conducting grassroots projects, building sustainable solutions that address a community’s most urgent need. Together, these grassroots projects from around the world create global change.

JCI Creed

That faith in God gives meaning and purpose to human life;

That the brotherhood of man transcends the sovereignty of nations;

That economic justice can best be won by free men through free enterprise;

That government should be of laws rather than of men; … And that service to humanity is the best work of life.”