EXCEL Clubs are groups of high school students dedicated to improving their schools, communities and country through volunteerism. As members of EXCEL Clubs serve their communities, they also develop valuable leadership and networking skills. EXCEL Club members learn by doing. The students, with the help of a school advisor, lead the club, decide on how to serve their school and community and then get actively involved in doing just that.

Each EXCEL Club is sponsored and mentored by a local Exchange Club. EXCEL Clubs may be formed in any secondary school, including public, private, parochial or vocational schools. The two basic requirements for chartering an EXCEL Club are: a group of young people who are willing to take on the challenge of becoming charter members of a youth organization, and a sponsoring Exchange Club which is dedicated to advising and guiding the EXCEL Club to fruition.

1. Locate a high school where you will form your Excel Club.
2. Seek approval of school administration. Since the greatest impact of the program is aimed at the community, make sure you have the approval of school officials.
3. Identify a club advisor and sponsoring team. Every high school must have a club advisor. Ideally a high school teacher, guidance counselor, or other staff member who is also a member of an Exchange Club, teams up with the individual who wishes to serve as an advisor.
4. Recruit a minimum of 15 high school students.
5. Elect officers, then submit the list to National Headquarters.
6. Become a recognized Excel high school club by filling out the application form in the Excel Club instruction booklet.

1. The local sponsoring Exchange Club and the advisor can introduce the club during an activities fair, freshman orientation or morning homeroom time.
2. The local Exchange Club can sponsor a picnic, fair, sporting event, or some interactive event with families and students.
3. Invite interested students to attend, or ask for volunteers to help with an event. This volunteer activity can be your key for recruitment.
4. Discuss the advantages of students working together to build friendships and influence positive changes within their schools, the community and their own lives.

For more information on forming an EXCEL Club in your area, request a free EXCEL Guide from your National Headquarters.