GOVERNOR'S MESSAGE

Governor Ken Allan reflected on the first couple of months of the Kiwanis year and how the District Board is supporting clubs and the important work they do to make communities a better place for Children.

In his recent visit to Division 7 and 8 clubs his main themes included:

• helping clubs to address membership growth and keep local clubs strong and viable to continue to do more work in the community (Existing Club Growth Program)

• recognizing that opening new clubs is a key component of district growth, which will need the support of local clubs (New Club Growth Program)

• continue to provide accessible club and leadership education via monthly workshop sessions, and supporting Amplify Leadership education (Club and Leadership Program)

• availability of experienced club coaches and coach education to help club strengthen and grow - using outside observers. (Coach Program)

Governor Ken closed by sharing some of the uplifting moments he experienced during this club visits to clubs in Division 7 and 8.

Read the Full Message

COMMITTMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION

At Kiwanis, our mission — to serve the children of the world, one child and one community at a time — is reflected in our continuing commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.

We understand that the children of the world represent a variety of races, ethnicities, religions, abilities, socioeconomic statuses, gender identities and sexual orientations. Our vision is to be a positive influence in societies worldwide, so that one day, regardless of background, all children wake up in communities that believe in them, nurture them and provide the support they need to survive.

To ensure our vision comes to life, it is imperative that our Kiwanis family welcomes, includes and serves individuals with diverse backgrounds, talents and perspectives. With Kiwanis’ worldwide presence, it is critical that we work with and engage members and organizations representing diverse communities throughout all levels of our organization.

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REFRESH YOU CLUB'S FACEBOOK PRESENCE

Is your club using its Facebook page effectively? If not, do so ASAP.

This social media platform has a broad reach. Many people wrongly believe that Facebook users are mostly young people. In fact, 56% of users are 65 and older.

Make sure your club’s page is current. Post often about ways to engage current and future members through community-service projects and fundraising events that are still taking place. And post photos showing your club involved in service and events — even if they are done from home.

Use this ready-to-post social media content.

DECEMBER HOLIDAYS?

When you think of December holidays, do you immediately think about Christmas?

What about:

• Hanukkah (December 18 to December 26 for 2022) - also known as the Festival of Lights, is a Jewish holiday commemorating the Holy Temple’s rededication in Jerusalem

• Rohatsu, or Bodhi Day (December 8), is a Buddhist holiday commemorating the day that Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment.

• Kwanzaa is an African American holiday (December 26 - January 1st) that celebrates family, community, and culture.

• Krampusnacht (December 5) is celebrated mainly in Austria, Germany, Hungary, Slovenia, and the Czech Republic. People dress up as the Krampus, a half-goat, half-demon creature, and roam the streets searching for naughty children. Naughty children receive coal in their stockings, while good children get candies.

Take the time to learn more about the diversity of cultures in your community!

READ MORE about Popular December Holidays

If you have any comments or suggestion for content, please contact the District Secretary

Roland Sabourin

Editor Emeritus