Kiwanis International

Kiwanis International is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to community service, with a focus on improving the lives of children and communities worldwide.

Founding and History

Kiwanis International was founded on January 21, 1915, in Detroit, Michigan, originally as the Supreme Lodge Benevolent Order of Brothers. The organization's name was changed to Kiwanis in 1916, which is derived from an Algonquian Native American phrase meaning "we build" or "we make ourselves known" according to different interpretations[1][2]. Initially, the group focused on business networking but shifted its focus to community service in 1919, with a specific emphasis on serving children[1][4].

Mission and Vision

The mission of Kiwanis International is to improve the world one child and one community at a time by providing service and support. The vision is to create communities worldwide where children are nurtured and supported to thrive[1]. The organization's motto, "Serving the Children of the World," encapsulates this mission[1].

Structure and Leadership

Kiwanis International operates through local clubs that are grouped into divisions, which in turn form districts. There are currently 49 districts worldwide[5]. The organization is led by the Kiwanis International Board of Trustees, which includes a president and trustees elected from around the world[5].

Programs and Impact

Kiwanis International supports various programs, including service to children, community development, and youth leadership through its affiliates like Key Club International for high school students and Circle K International for college students[2][3]. The organization has more than 600,000 members across over 80 countries, contributing significantly to community service projects and raising funds to support these initiatives[3].

Financial Overview

Kiwanis International has reported significant financial resources, with annual revenues and an endowment supporting its community service efforts[3]. The organization's financial strength allows it to engage in substantial volunteer work and fundraising, amounting to millions of dollars and volunteer hours annually[3].

References

• [1] https://smkiwanis.com/about-kiwanis-international
• [2] https://www.britannica.com/topic/Kiwanis-International
• [3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kiwanis
• [4] https://www.kiwanis.org/who-we-are/history/
• [5] https://www.kiwanis.org/who-we-are/structure-and-leadership/

[1] https://smkiwanis.com/about-kiwanis-international [2] https://www.britannica.com/topic/Kiwanis-International [3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kiwanis [4] https://www.kiwanis.org/who-we-are/history/ [5] https://www.kiwanis.org/who-we-are/structure-and-leadership/