Builders Club

Most of my writing or speaking is about how Builders Clubs are THE BEST thing that Kiwanis does. I truly believe that, as I have seen Middle School students Blossom and Grow in Self Esteem, Confidence and Leadership as they do their own projects to help others. There is nothing else like that experience for them. However, in this article I'd like to tell you about something that can help with their educational experience; it's the Builders Club Contests!

Every year, Kiwanis International sponsors several contests for Builders Clubs and/or individual members. These contests encourage them to express what they have experienced in their Builders Club meetings and projects. This year's contests helps students to reflect on projects they have done and how those projects have affected others.

There are contests for an individual to enter. They are:

1. A Speech where an entry form, the written speech and a DVD of the student giving the speech are required to be submitted.
2. An essay where the entry form and the essay are entered.
3. A Poster contest where the entry form and poster are required.
4. A Leadership Award which requires an entry form and letters of recommendation are required. (One winner from each District that submits an entry).

Contests for the Builders Club or group participation to enter are:

1. A Picture Book - with the entry form and the book are submitted
2. A Scrapbook - with the entry form, scrapbook and information sheet are submitted
3. Club Single Service Award - where the entry form with an explanation of the project are submitted.

The rules are VERY SPECIFIC. You need to the Builders Club Website: www.builderslub.org and download the 2014-15 Contest Booklet NOW!

It gives all the information and forms that are needed. Each club may submit ONLY one entry for each contest, however you do not have to enter every contest. ALL entries need to be in my hands (usually mailed to me) by April 1. Once I have them, my committee picks the best in each category and sends that entry to Kiwanis International.

As long as I've been District Administrator, New York has always had at least 2 International winners, but we've never had more than 9 entries! This year I would like at least one entry from every Builders Club!

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS please call me at (585) 342-7657. I'll be happy to help you in any way possible. OUR KIDS ARE THE BEST! Let's get them all involved and growing in this educational way too! BUT, you need to start NOW!

The website also has the winners of past contests displayed, so students have an example shown of what they are competing against. It's a great experience for students who enjoy doing these things, and the kids will never know if they can do it, until they try. I look forward to hearing from Kiwanis and/or Faculty Advisors about this phase of Builders Clubs opportunities.

Column Posted on Web Site February 1, 2015