By Kellen Olshefski
Editor
This year marking its 100th anniversary, the Elkhorn Kiwanis Club is taking on some new initiatives including satellite clubs and new events.
To begin with, Kiwanis member Julie Lopez, whose husband, Henry, is the president of, said the Kiwanis governor will be first visiting the Elkhorn Kiwanis Club at its next meeting on Monday, Jan. 12, due to its growth over the years. Additionally, the club’s governor will be returning on May 7 when Elkhorn’s club hosts the district meeting for the first time ever.
Additionally, Lopez said this year she is starting a satellite club for the Kiwanis club, meeting once a month on Thursday evenings at the library. Lopez said the new club will focus on a project once a month, allowing those who want to give back to the community an easier means if they’re unable to commit to a weekly meeting.
“It’s more affordable both financial and time-wise,” she said.
Lopez also noted the addition of a Key Club at Elkhorn Area High School. While the group has been meeting since about October, Lopez said the group will be electing officers at its next meeting now that it’s reaching enough student members to become a chartered branch of the club. The Kiwanis Club has additionally established a scholarship fund to be given to a selected student from the Key Club.
“I like that it’s a new leadership club,” she said.
As for initiatives in the upcoming year, Lopez said they’re looking to hold an event next year, something they’re calling a “Christmas Wish Store,” right now, which will allow for elementary-aged children to come and shop to get something for their parents or grandparents. A free opportunity, Lopez said it will provide children an opportunity to get into the spirit of giving, not just receiving, during the holiday season.
Additionally, the Key Club is looking to host a Scarefest at Lutherdale Ministries next fall with the help of the Kiwanis Club.
While nothing is set in stone at this time, Lopez said the group is planning something for its 100th anniversary celebration.
For more information about the new satellite club, contact Lopez at lopez@elknet.net. For more information about the Kiwanis Club, Lopez said the club now has a Facebook page and is additionally revamping its website, elkhornkiwanis.org.
