The volunteer spirit

'Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.' Margaret Mead said that.

I am proud to say I am one of Storm Lake Hy-Noon Kiwanis newest members - following in the footsteps of my late grandfather. Grandpa (probably one of my most favorite persons in the world and one of the nicest guys you could ever meet) passed away ten years ago on Father's Day. He was a long time Kiwanian in Sheldon.

Kiwanis was originally organized in Detroit in January 1915. Storm Lake's HyNoon Club was chartered in May 1921 'under the principles of Kiwanis International to work for a better quality of life for the citizens of Storm Lake, Iowa, throughout our State, our National and International.'

Kiwanis International is one of the largest service organizations in the world with a rich history of growth, fellowship, and service. I had several people ask me to join and I thought, 'why not?' It'll be good for me. What better way to play a role in the betterment of a community? We all need to get out of our little comfort zones now and then - stop thinking 'Me, me, me.'

I am guilty of always being 'too busy.' But we all need to find time in our lives to serve others. I don't know about you but I can't count the number of people who have given their time to help me in one way or another - I am forever grateful to them. You never know when the person you help may be someone who turns around and helps you in a time of need. Don't know where to start? Kiwanis is one option - and there are many great organizations in our community to get involved with!

So what do Kiwanians do? "Kiwanis, through guidance and example, works to develop future generations of leaders." Every day, Kiwanians are revitalizing neighborhoods, organizing youth-sports programs, tutoring, building playgrounds and performing countless other projects to help children and communities."

When I think of our local Kiwanis I think 'Reading Railroad.' Each week local Kiwanians sign up to read with local kids, helping the youngsters develop their readings skills. I'll be taking part tomorrow for the first time as a Kiwanian.

So where did they come up with a word like 'Kiwanis?' Sure is fun to say. The name means 'we trade,' or 'we share our talents.' It was coined from an American Indian expression - Nunc Kee-wanis. Kiwanis now spans the globe - there are about 8,000 clubs in 96 different countries. In 1987 it became a co-ed organization. The International Club, with over 600,000 members, has a goal of reaching one million by the year 2015.

The organization was not always known as Kiwanis, but originally was 'The Supreme Lodge Benevolent Order Brothers.' Legend has it they quickly grew tired of belonging to an organization known as "BOB." Thus the name 'Kiwanian,' was born. More to come.......