The National Exchange Club was established on March 27, 1911, in Detroit, MI, by businessmen who wanted to “exchange” ideas. Exchange began as a luncheon gathering, known as the Boosters’ Club, during which time members shared stories, provided business advice to each other and spoke about what they could accomplish with their collective talents and mutual interests.

Charles A. Berkey is credited with founding this great organization. At his suggestion, the name “Exchange” was selected based on the group’s desire to share ideas and information with like-minded individuals about how to better serve their communities.

After the initial Exchange Club was established in Detroit, the Exchange Club of Toledo, OH, formed in 1913. Subsequently, two others were organized in Grand Rapids, MI, and Cleveland, OH. These four clubs were the first to be chartered by The National Exchange Club after it was organized as a nonprofit, educational organization in 1917.

Exchange has included past presidents and celebrities among its ranks, even hosting Amelia Earhart in Toledo, OH, when the organization placed significant focus on aviation.

To learn more about Exchange’s history, please visit the “Who We Are” section of the organization’s website, NationalExchangeClub.org.

VISION STATEMENT

A strong America, safe communities, and unified people.

MISSION STATEMENT

Exchange, inspiring communities to become better places to live.

Exchange’s Mission Statement was updated in January 2015, after approval by the National Board of Directors. The concise phrasing more effectively communicates our mission to members, potential members and the general public.

CORE VALUES

Each member of Exchange upholds three Core Values – Family, Community and Country.

Commitment to Family is interpreted not only as one’s own family needs, but also those of all American families. Strengthening families, with a focus on youth, is addressed in many ways through Exchange’s Programs of Service and National Project, child abuse prevention.

Commitment to the Community is the focal point for each Exchange Club’s unique efforts. Membership in Exchange offers members the flexibility to structure projects that target the specific needs of a particular geographic location, rather than being restricted to a certain cause.

Commitment to Country was born in the aftermath of World War II, a time of unquenchable patriotism.  Exchangites are proud to join veterans and other civic groups in promoting Americanism as the rich blessing of democracy and freedom, and in educating today’s youth to cherish its values. These three values are translated into actions, every day, to bring about positive results through the work dedicated Exchangites.

MOTTO – UNITY FOR SERVICE

Exchange’s Motto was adopted in 1917. Its originator, Charles Berkey, said the motto was inspired by the 133rd Psalm: “Behold how good and pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.”

STRUCTURE

Exchange is comprised of:

• More than 650 local-level Exchange Club throughout the United States and in Puerto Rico
• Nearly 20,000 dedicated members serving their communities
• 11 regions and 30 districts working alongside The National Exchange Club Headquarters to help clubs serve communities and uphold Exchange’s Mission

Local-level clubs identify the needs of their communities and, in most cases, provide for those needs through projects falling under the Programs of Service and National Project. Local Exchange Clubs are supported by their own officers, boards of directors, self-raised funds and, in some cases, foundations. Clubs also develop valuable community partnerships with like-minded individuals and organizations working toward common goals.

District and regional leadership is comprised of Exchange Club members who have served their clubs and communities in a most dedicated capacity and have been elected by fellow members. Members of Exchange’s leadership receive training from National Headquarters and function to help strengthen Exchange Clubs assigned by geographic location. Leadership develops and maintains interclub relationships, helps districts and clubs achieve growth, serves as mentors for members and clubs, and ensures valuable communication is maintained between National Headquarters and the clubs within their districts/regions.

National Headquarters is located in Toledo, OH, and employs a dedicated staff committed to helping clubs carry out Exchange’s Mission of making communities better places to live. With staff assigned to growth, finance, marketing and public relations, child abuse prevention services, and member services, National Headquarters strives to continually exceed the expectations of its membership and provide membership value.

PROGRAMS OF SERVICE AND NATIONAL PROJECT

Americanism, Community Service, Youth Programs, and its National Project – the prevention of child  abuse – serve as the foundation for services provided by local Exchange Clubs throughout the country and in Puerto Rico.

The National Exchange Club’s National officially adopted child abuse prevention as its National Project in 1979 and each local-level Exchange Club chooses how to best serve its community through the National Project.

To learn more about Exchange’s National Project, including Exchange Club Child Abuse Prevention Centers and the evidence-based Parent Aide Program, please visit the “Programs of Service” section of Exchange’s website, NationalExchangeClub.org.

For additional information, media is invited to contact Kristie Lindau, Director of Communications:

• klindau@NationalExchangeClub.org
• 535.3232