I have been involved with the Kiwanis since before I could remember. My father is a past president of the club and one of the individuals behind the annual Nassau County Strawberry Festival (Newbridge Road and Jerusalem Avenue in late spring). My family has always participated in the Kiwanis Club's events and it is something that was just always part of my life. When I graduated from college, and joined the "real world" my values did not change much. I knew that the Kiwanis provided a vital service to the local community and joined as an official member.
What is Kiwanis?
Kiwanis International is a worldwide service group aimed at local community service activities and focuses on helping the children of the world.
The Kiwanis Club of the Bellmores, more specifically, focuses on helping children and families in need in our local communities. We have events including the Nassau County Strawberry Festival (annual), the Pancake Breakfast (annual), Golf Outings, Food Drives and more. These events support our efforts year round and allow the club to provide direct support for those in need.
What does Kiwanis do?
The club hopes that they will be able to do more in 2010 than ever before. We are seeing a rejuvenation of the club with new members, younger members and refocused efforts. Our largest event, the Nassau County Strawberry Festival, raised more money than ever in 2009 and plans for 2010 are even greater.
Through the efforts of its members and the support of the community the Bellmore Kiwanis club has:
- Helped send kids to camp every summer (Kamp Kiwanis)
- Provided over 80 boxes of food for needy families during the holidays
- Adopted an Army Unit stationed in Afghanistan and has shipped several cases of basic necessities to the unit including: clothing, toiletries, food, entertainment items (books, movies, games, etc)
- Built a handicap ramp for a local family
- Provided annual scholarships to high school kids
and so much more.
What can you do to help?
Participate, Participate, Participate. We hope you will join us at one of our events or our meetings. We will not ask you to donate or fundraise. Simply come to a meeting, see what we are all about and if you find you are interested, come back for more. We are a casual club and you'll find us very welcoming and supportive.
Do you know someone who needs help?
Let us know. We are open to all types of causes. We would be happy to hear from you and discuss what we can do to help.
