Building Better Communities Together
For over 100 years, Civitan International has been empowering people to create positive change in their communities through service and leadership.
For over 100 years, Civitan International has been empowering people to create positive change in their communities through service and leadership.
Civitan International is a global organization of community service clubs founded in 1917. Our members are dedicated to serving individual and community needs with an emphasis on helping people with developmental disabilities.
With clubs in over 30 countries, we bring together people from all walks of life to create positive change through volunteer service, leadership development, and community building.
Active in over 30 countries with thousands of members worldwide.
Special emphasis on helping people with developmental disabilities.
Developing community leaders through training and mentorship.
A century of service since our founding in 1917.
From our humble beginnings to our global impact today
Civitan International was founded in Birmingham, Alabama by a group of businessmen led by Dr. Courtney W. Shropshire. The name "Civitan" comes from the Latin "civitas," meaning citizenship.
The organization quickly expanded beyond Alabama, establishing clubs across the United States. The first international club was formed in Windsor, Ontario, Canada in 1921.
During the Great Depression, Civitan clubs focused on helping those most in need, providing food, clothing, and other assistance to struggling families in their communities.
Civitans supported the war effort during World War II through bond drives, blood donations, and assistance to military families. Many clubs adopted the motto "Builders of Good Citizenship."
The Civitan International Research Center was established in 1956 at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, focusing on developmental disabilities research.
Civitan expanded its international presence with new clubs in Europe and Asia. The organization also began its long-standing partnership with Special Olympics.
Civitan formally adopted service to people with developmental disabilities as its major focus, leading to numerous community programs and support services.
The Civitan International Research Center made significant contributions to understanding developmental disorders like autism and Down syndrome.
Civitan clubs worldwide increased their international service projects, including disaster relief efforts and global health initiatives.
The organization modernized its structure and programs while maintaining its core values. Youth programs like Junior Civitan and Campus Civitan grew significantly.
Civitan celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2017 with special projects and events worldwide. The Research Center continued groundbreaking work in neurodevelopmental disorders.
Today, Civitan International continues its mission with thousands of members in over 30 countries, creating positive change through service, leadership, and research.
Creating positive change in communities worldwide
Creating accessible spaces and opportunities for people with disabilities through community partnerships and advocacy.
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Supporting groundbreaking research at the Civitan International Research Center focused on developmental disabilities.
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Empowering the next generation through Junior Civitan and Campus Civitan clubs that develop leadership and service skills.
Learn MoreJoin thousands of Civitans worldwide who are building better communities through service and leadership.
