By Salsabeel Eldeeb, Membership Development Committee chair, Key Club International trustee

Chartering a Key Club is one of the most effective and impactful ways to expand service and leadership. But the process can be overbearing and overwhelming without proper support. That’s where Charter Champions come in.

Charter Champs is an international initiative designed by the Key Club International Board’s Membership Development Committee to ensure that no club experiences hardships on its own.

Charter champions are dedicated to supporting new, returning and growing clubs throughout the service year and providing a direct connection to Key Club International. Their main goal is to ensure that the chartering process is accessible and approachable for every club and leader. By focusing on communication, mentorship and true connection, Charter Champs builds a strong foundation for retention and long-term growth.

Charter champions are here to guide schools — whether they’re interested in starting a Key Club from scratch or retaining members to make up for recent graduates.

This initiative is more than just a matter of filling out paperwork; it’s about building sustainable clubs that empower students to lead in their local communities.

Responsibilities

Charter champions know the ins and outs of chartering. They will share support and guidance with new clubs, and connect them to upper levels of Key Club International. They also will be responsible for supporting these clubs through the chartering process — ensuring they can complete what can seem like a daunting process.

Charter champions are communicators, ready to help when necessary.

How to get involved

As we begin a new year of service and leadership, there is no better time to connect with Charter Champs and take an active role in strengthening Key Club membership. Charter champions are designated representatives ready to guide you, answer your questions and support your growth — but they can only do so if you reach out and engage.

Here’s how to get involved:

  • Start by messaging your charter champion directly, whether it’s for advice, clarification or sharing your ideas. Do not hesitate to ask questions about membership strategies, club growth or ways to get more members involved.
  • Stay informed about announcements, resources and ongoing initiatives. This allows you to contribute, provide input and take advantage of support designed to help your club succeed.
  • Make time to attend Key Conversations zones. These gatherings offer the chance to hear from others, ask meaningful questions and learn directly from fellow members. Your voice and your presence add valuable insight and help create discussions that benefit everyone.
  • Engage with their initiatives whenever you can. This can include support for outreach efforts to new or returning clubs, helping share resources with peers or participating in conversations about strengthening membership in your community. Your involvement reinforces the work your charter champs are doing — and helps create a more informed and connected Key Club community.

Engagement matters

As the new year begins, consider how your club can foster meaningful and sustainable membership growth:

  • Create an environment where students feel valued, connected and included.
  • Highlight the purpose behind your service, share the impact your club is making and give members space to contribute ideas and take ownership.
  • Encourage officers to support new members, offer roles that align with people’s strengths and celebrate progress throughout the year.

Engagement matters. When individuals feel seen, supported and motivated, membership grows. Reach out, stay curious and use the resources your charter champs are eager to share.