By Gary Cooper

Kiwanis International

Did you know that Kiwanis International helped eradicate Iodine Deficiency Disorder in the world (which was the No. 1 cause of mental retardation)?  Currently the Carolinas District of Kiwanis has raised enough money to save more than 10 million babies from dying from Maternal Neo Natal Tetanus. Kiwanis is as global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time.

  Over the coming year, Kiwanis clubs worldwide are celebrating Kiwanis International’s 100th anniversary. The International service organization was founded on Jan. 21, 1915, and today boasts more than 600,000 members ranging from elementary school aged children through adults, in more than 6,000 clubs in 80 nations. Kiwanis and its family of clubs, including Circle K International for university students, Key Club for high school students ages 14-18, Builders Club for middle school students ages 11-14, Kiwanis Kids for elementary students ages 6-12 and Aktion Club for adults living with disabilities, dedicate annually more than 18 million service hours to strengthen communities and serve children.       

Very few organizations are 100 years strong, and the fact that communities around the world have benefited from Kiwanis service for a century is no small thing.  But closer to home, Kiwanis serves the children in over 175 communities in North and South Carolina.

Is Kiwanis in your community? If so, you have seen firsthand all the good they do for the children. If not, you need Kiwanis more than ever so please inquire how to start a club in your community. For more information about Kiwanis please visit www.kiwanis.org  or www.carolinakiwanis.org.

I invite you to make a difference in the lives of children in your community with Kiwanis by supporting our fundraising, service projects or better still, becoming a Kiwanian. Those interested in learning more about Kiwanis, or visiting a meeting, or helping us establish a new club please contact our district office at 800-739-1827 or your local club.

Cooper is governor of the Kiwanis Carolinas District which includes North and South Carolina.