Learn about Jaycees' new Crystal Lake chapter at March 24 networking event

A civic organization for men and women between the ages of 18 and 41, the Jaycees promote professional and leadership development, along with personal growth through community service.

The Crystal Lake Jaycees aims to provide expansive social and networking opportunities to developing professionals and young adults in the area aspiring to contribute to the prospering community. "Becoming a part of the Jaycees helped me meet other young people who had similar interests and wanted to improve our community," said Illinois Jaycees President Eric Hiatt.

Hiatt added, "We are excited to bring the Jaycees back to Crystal Lake."

Founded in 1951, the Crystal Lake Jaycees took part in a wide variety of community service projects, including junior bowling, SEDOM's prom, Share-A-Christmas and the Burleson Scholarship. They also helped out other organizations, such as Lakeside Legacy, the American Cancer Society, St. Baldrick's, the Crystal Lake Chamber of Commerce, and the Crystal Lake Park District.

The Illinois Jaycees are looking for founding members to re-establish the Crystal Lake Jaycees.

Since 1920, the organization has been a force for good in America and around the world. The Jaycees are part of Junior Chamber International (JCI) with nearly 200,000 active members and over five million alumni including several world leaders. Jaycee chapters have built parks, playgrounds, established community festivals, and raised millions for local charities. Notable Jaycees include past U.S. Presidents Bill Clinton and Gerald Ford, and sports legend Larry Bird.

A networking and social event hosted by the new chapter will take place on Thursday, March 24, from 7 to 9:30 p.m. at Crystal Lake Brewing, 150 N. Main St. in Crystal Lake.

Bring a canned good to the event. All items collected will be given to the Crystal Lake Food Pantry. This event will provide an opportunity to meet new people, network and learn more about the Jaycees.

Becoming a member of the Jaycees is an exciting opportunity to socialize and network, and to develop professional and leadership skills by serving the local community.

For more information, visit www.facebook.com/crystallakejaycees or www.illinoisjaycees.com/crystallake.