Kiwanis International Inc

Overview

Kiwanis International Inc. is a United States-based nonprofit organization and a leading global service club. The organization was founded in 1915 in Detroit, Michigan, by Joseph C. Prance and Allen S. Browne. Originally named the Supreme Lodge Benevolent Order of Brothers, it was later renamed Kiwanis, a word derived from the Algonquian Native American language family, meaning "we build"[1][2][3].

Mission and Objectives

Kiwanis focuses on improving the world one child and one community at a time. Its mission is centered around serving children worldwide and promoting communities that nurture and support their growth. The organization's vision is to be a positive influence globally, ensuring that children live in supportive environments[1][2].

The objectives of Kiwanis include giving primacy to human and spiritual values, encouraging the Golden Rule in all relationships, promoting higher social and business standards, developing intelligent and serviceable citizenship, providing opportunities for enduring friendships and altruistic service, and fostering sound public opinion and high idealism[1].

Structure and Leadership

Kiwanis operates through a hierarchical structure starting at the club level. Members join local clubs, which are grouped into divisions and then into districts. The organization currently has clubs in nearly 80 to 85 nations and territories[1][4].

Kiwanis International is led by a Board of Trustees, which includes a president, president-elect, vice president, past president, and 15 trustees. These trustees are elected annually and represent clubs from around the world, guiding long-range plans and policy implementation[4].

Activities and Impact

Kiwanis clubs engage in a wide range of community service activities, focusing particularly on improving children's lives. Members raise substantial funds and volunteer millions of hours annually to support these efforts. The organization also collaborates with other entities whose missions align with its goals[2][5].

History and Global Expansion

Initially focused on business networking, Kiwanis shifted its focus to service-oriented activities in 1919, with a specific emphasis on serving children. The organization became international with the establishment of a club in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, in 1916. Expansion into more countries was approved in the 1960s, and Kiwanis now operates globally[1][3].

Membership and Financials

Kiwanis has more than 592,000 members and reports significant financial activity, with revenues exceeding $20 million in some years. The organization's endowment has also been substantial, indicating a robust financial foundation for its activities[2]. In 1987, Kiwanis began accepting women as members, further expanding its global community[2].

Impact on Communities

Kiwanis clubs have a profound impact on local communities by providing essential services, promoting civic engagement, and fostering better living conditions for children. Their efforts contribute to the development of more compassionate and equitable societies worldwide[1][5].