Kiwanis History
Kiwanis was founded in 1915 by Joe Prance of Detroit, Michigan.  Kiwanis means "WE BUILD", specifically meaning that the clubs build better communities.  It was not until 1987 that women were first admitted; 50,000 are now members.  Kiwanis today includes more than 300,000 members in more than 8,000 clubs in some 80 nations and geographic areas.

Who are the Kiwanis?

  • Kiwanis are men and women banded together to make their communities better places in which to live.
  • They perform community service beyond the capability of government. They work collectively, or through committees. They attend regularly scheduled meetings for fellowship and inspiration. They serve because they want to server. Kiwanis makes it possible.
  • They work with young people and senior citizens; they help solve community and social problems; they provide support for spiritual and patriotic endeavors.
  • Their purpose is "Service to Youth, Community and Nation." Their clubs are called "service clubs" a phenomenon of twentieth century life.
  • Their ranks are open to all men and women of good character; the cost is small; the rewards in personal satisfaction are great.
  • Their clubs are located around the world.
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