What Does a Kalamazoo Jaycee Do?


The Kalamazoo Jaycees focus on three areas of development: Community, Individual and Management. Every project we run falls into one of those areas.



Community Development

The Kalamazoo Jaycees are actively involved in the community in a number of ways. We have raised money for community groups such as Warm Kids and the Child Abuse and Neglect Council, and we have participated in the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life and Making Strides Against Breast Cancer.

Two of our most prominent Community Development projects are the 
Ghosts of Kalamazoo Historic Tours – historic tours given at various locations around town, raising money for a local charity – and the 

Say Hello to Fall Festival – a family-friendly event with visits from local mascots, public safety representatives, games, prizes and a puppet show.

Other Community Projects have included Bowl for Kid’s Sake, CROP Walk, the City of Kalamazoo Egg Hunt and Model Legislature.

You can learn more about our work in the community by contacting 2011 Community Vice President Heather McLaughlin at community@kalamazoojaycees.org.

Individual Development

This area of development covers a wide range, including personal and professional development, social activities and international involvement.


Past and current Individual Development projects include Game & Greets, our General Membership Meetings, Fantastic Friday dinners, International Presentations and Winery Tours.

You can learn more about these projects by contacting 2011 Individual Development Vice President Krista Ploski at id@kalamazoojaycees.org or 2011 Membership Vice President Heather Stewart at membership@kalamazoojaycees.org.

Management Development

This area focuses on the “business” aspects of the chapter – excellent for learning time management, strategic planning and organizational finances.

Past and current management projects include the Board of Directors; working the beverage tent at the annual downtown festivals Island Fest and Taste of Kalamazoo; chapter fundraising; and events with the Kalamazoo Chamber of Commerce.

You can find out more from 2011 Management Vice President Blair Lorimer at management@kalamazoojaycees.org.

Learn more about the Kalamazoo Jaycees

Now that you have gotten to know us, we’d love to meet you! Come to one of our events, fill out our quick Information Request Form, follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

Still not convinced? Take a look at some of our member benefits, or read some of our member stories.