Kalamazoo Jaycee Testimonials

Learn about the Kalamazoo Jaycees experience, in their own words:

David Quinton Worthams

2011 Michigan Jaycees President, 2001 Kalamazoo Jaycees President

“During my years at WMU, I had the opportunity to start a chapter of an international service fraternity on campus. The cardinal principles that we shared were “LEADERSHIP, FRIENDSHIP, and SERVICE.” After I graduated I wondered where I would find those three things in the “real world.”

“Imagine my surprise when I found them at my very first meeting of the Kalamazoo Jaycees. I joined right on the spot!

“During my time in the Jaycees, I have had the chance to celebrate “LEADERSHIP”, helping our chapter grow in size, run more projects that improve our community, and prepare our members for advancement in their personal and professional lives.

“I have had the chance to celebrate “FRIENDSHIP” through the various social projects we hold and through meeting people of all backgrounds throughout my travels in Michigan during my time as a state Jaycee officer.

I have had the chance to celerbate “SERVICE” by impacting the lives of others – especially the children of Kalamazoo.

“LEADERSHIP, FRIENDSHIP, SERVICE” – that is what has made my time in the Kalamazoo Jaycees worth every moment!”

Julie White

2006 Kalamazoo Jaycee President

“Joining the Jaycees has changed my life. Through the Jaycees I have developed leadership skills that have benefited me in my career, helped work with many local community groups, made lots of new friends, tried many new activities, and even found a husband!”

David Marion

2005 Kalamazoo Jaycee President

“When I moved to Kalamazoo I wanted to get involved in my community and meet people so I joined the Kalamazoo Jaycees. Four years later it was one of the best decisions of my life.

“I have made several friends and have had a lot of fun. Some of my best moments as a Jaycee are being the Easter Bunny at the annual Easter Egg Hunt and chairing the annual Haunted House project.

“I didn’t join the Jaycees to develop my professional skills, however, being a member of the Jaycee board for three years has developed my leadership and communication skills as well.

“As President in 2005, I have networked with numerous organizations in the local community and have met many people in my travels.

“The Jaycees provide skills and experiences to help members to be successful. I have seen several members over the years get promotions at work or accepted to grad school because of their involvement with the Jaycees.”

Jeff White

2002 Kalamazoo Jaycees President

“Ten years ago I joined the Jaycees to learn management skills while having fun. Since then, I have run many projects and served the Board of Directors for six years, including the office of President. It has been a great experience meeting new friends, making many great contacts for my business and serving my community. I want to thank the Jaycees for letting me be me.”

Eric Schmidt

“Being a self-employed graphic designer, I originally joined the Kalamazoo Jaycees as a networking opportunity. However, after less than a couple of months of attending events, I found myself really enjoying the company of the Jaycee members. My original goal of finding new business also resulted in making new friendships!”