New England Circle K

Circle K International (CKI) is the world's largest collegiate organization dedicated to service and leadership development with more than 500 clubs in over 15 different nations. It is not the size of the organization, however, which gives CKI 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 CKI apart from other student organizations.

CKI 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 campuses. 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 unique opportunities, a chance to get to know others and create long-lasting friendships, an opportunity for personal development, and opens the door for students to make a lasting impact and meaningful contributions to the world. CKI provides a unique opportunity to make a difference now -- it 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.

In 1949, two more clubs were organized, including one in Canada, making Circle K truly “International”. There were 147 CKI clubs in 1955, and, in October of that year, representatives from these clubs met in Philadelphia and voted to form an international organization under the sponsorship of Kiwanis. It was at this point that Circle K International was officially recognized as a sponsored organization of Kiwanis International. In 1956, a special department was created in the Kiwanis International Office to serve as the International Headquarters for CKI.

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 International inspires people to better our world. Its motto is to "Live to Serve, Love to Serve." CKI provides constructive opportunities for students to become involved on their campuses and communities through service work to others in need. CKI members have the chance to work with fellow students, children in the community, and other adults in need of special programs. 

Service

Above all else, Circle K International is a service organization whose members are dedicated to improving their schools and communities. Virtually any unanswered need is a potential opportunity for CKI’s commitment and dedication.

The Circle K International Service Initiative, Focusing on the Future: Children, was designed to involve all CKI members in projects that address the problems and issues that face children worldwide, ages 6-13. Through personal interaction and public awareness, CKI members are enabling children to develop the skills and ideals necessary to be successful.

Membership Requirements

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

Each CKI club is assessed $25.00 (US) for International dues per member per year. In return, members receive all the benefits described below. CKI clubs and districts also set the amount of dues which are to be paid by each member for administrative expenses. New England District dues are $6/person.