K-Kids

As the K-Kids of the New York District end their 2010-2011 service year, we have much to be proud of. Our K-Kids have supported the ELIMINATE project, planted community gardens, fed the hungry, raised funds for KPTC, sent cards to the elderly, cleaned up their neighborhoods, helped Governor Mike send military kids to Kamp Kiwanis and so much more.
This year, we have five distinguished clubs and one honor club. I would like to congratulate the Bowling Green K-Kids, sponsored by the East Meadow Kiwanis Club, the Connolly K-Kids, sponsored by the North Shore Kiwanis Club, the Franklin Square K-Kids, sponsored by the Franklin Square Kiwanis Club, the Lawrence Avenue K-Kids, sponsored by the Potsdam Kiwanis Club, and the McVey K-Kids, sponsored by the Nassau University Medical Center Kiwanis Club. These clubs have all been named 2010-11 Distinguished Clubs. Congratulations also go to the Landing K-Kids sponsored by the Glen Cove Kiwanis Club who earned Honor Club status.
I would be remiss if I did not also thank the advisors of these clubs. It is only through their outstanding guidance that these clubs have achieved such accolades.
Unfortunately, we had few clubs and members enter the Kiwanis International contests or apply for Kiwanis International awards this year. While an increase from last year, the number of entries is still very disappointing. I would like to commend the Bowling Green K-Kids who submitted at least one entry for every one of the Kiwanis International contests and awards. In fact, this club or one of its members will be representing the New York District in each of the contests or awards competitions at the international level this year.
I cannot stress enough the importance of having your K-Kids Clubs and members enter these contests and compete for these awards. As we develop the young service leaders who are our K-Kids, the reinforcement that district and international recognition provides fosters a love of community service in our K-Kids and strengthens the foundation of our K-Family.
The K-Kids District Committee and I are available to assist any club wishing to enter these contests or to apply for these awards. From talking to so many of you, we know your clubs are doing so many projects worthy of district and international recognition. Please contact one of us, if we can assist you. Our contact information is: District Administrator Mickie Leamey: 516-333-3563; Assistant Administrator David Morse: slapshot@frontiernet.net; Assistant Administrator Rich Santer: rs2wdld@aol.com; Assistant Administrator Lisa Santer: momljs1263@aol.com
Another way clubs can learn more about these awards, and contests as well as improve their K-Kids is by attending the K-Kids Mini-Convention hosted by the Bowling Green K-Kids on Saturday, April 30, at the Levittown Public Library.
In closing, I would like to thank everyone involved in K-Kids during the 2010-11 service year. Your time and energy is making a difference for the youngest members of our K-Family. I wish everyone a fantastic 2011-12 service year.

Column Posted on Web Site May 5, 2011