Jaycees 101
Who are the Jaycees?
The Jaycees can also be referred to as the "Junior Chamber of Commerce". There are hundreds of Chapters of Jaycees around the World and in the U.S. Our Chapter was incorporated here in Alexandria, Virginia, in 1940.
Currently, about 60 adults aged 21 to 40 are members of the Alexandria Jaycees; they live in northern Virginia, Maryland, or the District of Columbia. The Alexandria Jaycees organization is run by a volunteer Board of Directors, elected from and by the general membership.
To read more about us - our history in the City of Alexandria, past presidents, or learn about the national Jaycees organization, use these links.
What do Jaycees do?
Each year, members have almost 100 opportunities (no events are "mandatory"!) to give back to their community, develop skills, and meet new people, in four different areas. To learn more about each area, use the link.
Areas of Opportunity
Signature Projects
Our "signature" projects - projects which we are known for here in Alexandria, include:
- Holiday Shopping Tour for Underprivileged Children
- Community Appreciation Night / Distinguished Service Awards
- Annual Christmas Tree Sales - supports the Holiday Shopping Tour
- Goblin Games - a Halloween program for children
- Community Yard Sales
Locally, we also work with and support many organizations with volunteer manpower. These include:
- ALIVE!
- George Washington Birthday Parade
- Alexandria Gives / Spring for Alexandria
- Alexandria Birthday Celebration
- Alexandria Waterfront Festival
- T.C. Williams High School Scholarship Telethon
- Rebuilding Together Alexandria
Most events are open to non-members who want to "check out" the Jaycees and find out if it is the young professionals' organization for them. To RSVP, contact our Membership Vice President.
Who Can Join?
Membership is open to all adults between the ages of 21 and 40; adults over 40 may join as Associate Members. Once you've made the decision to join the Jaycees, you're a few clicks away from enjoying the benefits of membership.
Why Should I Join?
Young adults join the Jaycees - or Junior Chamber of Commerce - for a wide variety of reasons:
- Some are new to the area and want to expand their circle of social and business contacts.
- Others have a desire to give back to the community in which they live and/or work.
- Still others look at the opportunities for leadership training or personal growth and decide to come on board.
Learn more about the benefits of membership. Membership in the Alexandria Jaycees includes membership in the Virginia Jaycees, the U.S. Junior Chamber, and Junior Chamber International.