What is Civic Leadership Certification (CLC)?
Strong chapters don’t happen by accident. They are built with intention, structure, and empowered leaders. That’s exactly why JCI USA’s Civic Leadership Certification (CLC) exists.The Civic Leadership Certification is a structured, year-long program designed to guide local chapters through training, governance, membership engagement, and meaningful community impact. By combining practical tools with intentional leadership development, CLC helps chapters move from simply operating to truly thriving.
A Clear Path to Empowering Leaders at Every Level
CLC is built to optimize chapter operations by removing guesswork. Through clearly defined milestones, planning tools, surveys, and LMS-based training modules, chapters gain a roadmap that simplifies reporting, strengthens governance, and aligns efforts across leadership teams. Instead of reinventing the wheel each year, chapters can focus on execution, growth, and impact.
At its core, CLC is about people. The program empowers members to lead with confidence by providing data-driven insights, guided civic engagement, and leadership training that applies both inside and outside of JCI. Participants develop skills they can immediately use in their chapters, careers, and communities by creating leaders who are prepared, informed, and inspired to serve.
Recognition That Reflects the Work
CLC also recognizes the commitment chapters make to excellence. Chapters that complete the program receive meaningful incentives, including:
Certifications of completion
Annual Meeting registration support
JCI USA merchandise store gift certificates
Swag for the entire chapter
These incentives celebrate not just outcomes, but the dedication to sustainable growth and leadership development.
Building Sustainable Impact
The Civic Leadership Certification is a commitment to building stronger chapters, more confident leaders, and lasting civic impact. By meeting chapters where they are and providing tools to move them forward, CLC helps ensure the future of JCI USA is both strong and sustainable.
In addition to strengthening individual chapters, the Civic Leadership Certification provides valuable visibility and support at the state level. Throughout the year, chapters track their progress within the CLC framework, creating a clear record of activity and completion. State teams are able to review this progress, allowing them to better understand chapter engagement, provide targeted support when needed, and confidently confirm milestones as they are achieved.