Circle K

What is Circle K International?

Circle K International is the world's largest collegiate organization dedicated to service and leadership development with more than 500 clubs in nine countries. It is not the size of the organization, however, which gives it its identity or provides it with its primary source of pride and satisfaction. Rather, it's the mission and the objects of the organization that set Circle K apart from other student organizations.

Circle K is a service organization through which college students can find a means of responsible student action in their communities and a more active involvement in the life of their campus. As clubs learn about the needs of their campuses and communities, they develop hands-on activities to address these problems.

College is more than a pursuit for a scholastic degree -- it offers good times, getting to know others, personal development, and meaningful contributions to the world. Circle K provides a unique opportunity to make a difference now -- Circle K is the total college experience.

History

In 1936, Circle K was instituted as a fraternity at Washington State University by the Kiwanis Club of Pullman, Washington. The idea started with Jay N. Emerson, who was later elected Kiwanis International President. His interest led to the building of the first Circle K club in 1947 at Carthage College, Illinois.

Other Kiwanians became interested, and during the next eight years 168 Circle K clubs were started in the United States and Canada. In October 1955 representatives from these clubs met in Philadelphia and voted to form an international organization under the sponsorship of Kiwanis. In 1956, a special department was created in the Kiwanis International Office to serve as the International Headquarters for Circle K.

Purpose

Our mission is a statement of what CKI wants to become and for whom: Circle K International is college and university students who are responsible citizens and leaders with a lifelong commitment to community service worldwide. Circle K inspires people to better our world. Its motto, the same as Kiwanis International's, is "We Build." Circle K provides constructive opportunities for students to become involved on their campuses and communities through service work to others in need. Circle K members have the chance to work with fellow students, children in the community, and other adults in need of special programs.

Service

Circle K is not bound to any one particular service activity. Each club is encouraged to analyze its local situation and determine how its environment can be served most effectively. Every two years a new Service Initiative is designed by the Circle K International Board. Members and clubs are encouraged to perform service activities that fall within the parameters of this program.

Membership Requirements

There are general requirements for Circle K membership: willingness to serve, commitment to humankind, and dedication and adherence to the ideals of the organization. 

 ~from New Jersey District Circle K website  http://www.njcirclek.org