The story of JCI begins with Henry Giessenbier Jr., a visionary young man from St. Louis, Missouri, USA, who lived during a time of rapid growth and transformation. Recognizing the talents and passions of the young people around him, Giessenbier imagined the change they could create with the right support and resources.

In 1915, he founded the first JCI movement in the St. Louis area to empower young people. What started as a local initiative quickly gained momentum across the United States and then around the world. Young people came together to become a positive force in their communities—locally, nationally, and internationally.

Giessenbier envisioned JCI as an organization that could channel the energy and leadership of youth to overcome civic challenges. JCI members would grow as individuals, strengthen local economies through entrepreneurship, and foster understanding and collaboration within their communities and beyond. That vision remains alive today, continuing to inspire young people worldwide to lead, create impact, and build a better future. Read more about JCI.