What is Exchange?

At the suggestion of Charles A. Berkey, the founder of this great organizaion, the name �Exchange� was selected because the group wanted to exchange ideas and information with like-minded individuals about how to better serve their communities. The first local Exchange Club was formed in Detroit Michigan in 1911. Since then, hundreds of clubs have been chartered in the United States and Puerto Rico, with nearly 28,000 members making a positive difference in their own communities every day.

The Exchange Club of Aurora is a community service organization founded on the principles of service and patriotism and is affiliated with the National Exchange Club. The purpose of Exchange is to help meet the needs of our community as well as to preserve and strengthen the principles that make our nation great. The Aurora chapter was founded in 1937 and has deep roots in the community.

When and Where do You Meet?

The club meets every Tuesday for lunch from noon until 1:00 p.m. at Provena Fox Knoll in Aurora. Guest speakers are featured three times per month with the gathering of the fourth week consisting of a business meeting.

How Does The Exchange Club of Aurora Serve Its Community?

Members take pride in working on projects that directly benefit the community of Aurora, such as the following:

Americanism:

     - GiveAKidaFlagToWave

     - So Proudly We Hail

     - Freedom Shrine

Community Service:

     - Police Officer of the Year

     - Firefighter of the Year

     - Hal Beebee Book of Golden Deeds

     - Salvation Army Bell Ringing

     - Friend of Children Award

     - National Day of Service

     - Philanthropy

Youth Activities:

     - ACE Award Scholarships

Many of these efforts are to honor and recognize exemplary service to the community. However, The Exchange Club of Aurora places Education and Child Abuse Prevention as their top priorities and this is the focus of the club’s philanthropy. Learn more about each of these great initiatives at an Exchange Club of Aurora meeting, by asking a member or by visiting our website at auroraexchange.org.

How are These Initiatives Funded?

Fundraising is the key to making all of these opportunities possible for our youth and community. The main fundraising event sponsored by the Exchange Club of Aurora is the Downtown Aurora Taste, held on the second Tuesday in May. All of the proceeds from this fundraiser are used for Child Abuse Prevention and Scholarships.

What is Expected of Members?

Regular attendance at weekly meetings is not mandatory, but is encouraged in order to keep the club strong and active. Leadership opportunities abound and members are expected to serve on a committee and participate in club projects.

What is the Cost of Membership?

Membership dues are $115.00 per quarter, which includes the cost of regular weekly lunches and many special events.

How do I JOIN?

If you were invited by a sponsor, contact them for a membership card. Otherwise, see any Exchange Club member or call President Marti Cross at

630-892-5456. We would love to

WELCOME YOU TO EXCHANGE!