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The domino effect

Down but not out, a Texas club adopts a new project, which establishes a partnership, which rejuvenates its roster, which stirs up more service ideas

When Larry Phelps became president of the New Braunfels, Texas, Kiwanis club—after having been a member for only three months—things didn’t look good. He wasn’t sure what to do with his newfound responsibilities, and the club had dwindled in membership.

New Braunfels Kiwanians enlist help—and youthful energy—from Key Clubbers during a “Wassailfest” and the “Mile of Quarters Challenge” fundraiser. Photos by Brian Betsworth

“The club had eight members, now nine with me,” he says. “I heard of all the great works Kiwanis did, but I didn’t see anything happening in our own club, except giving money and one hands-on project: ‘Hooked On Fishing.’”

So Larry and the rest of the Kiwanians began searching for a long-term project a club of just eight—make that nine—members could handle. After researching possibilities, they decided on a project called “Vial of Life,” in which people store vital medical information in pill vials safely stashed where medical help can find them during emergencies. The club contacted McKenna Heath Link to assist with the project. Within the first year of partnering with McKenna, the New Braunfels club began to grow with McKenna employees—and others.

“This one partnership has given us the momentum for growth,” Larry says. “Having the new members from McKenna Health Link has given our club a larger presence in the community.”

And not only did the club grow in members, by gaining women and younger Kiwanians the group also began to grow in diversity.

“Younger people have younger ideas that give new life to a club,” Larry says. “They have a better idea of what is needed in the community and are willing to work hard and have fun.”

The club now has 39 members and hopes to reach 50 by the end of the year. Current president Melissa Krause and vice-president Peggy Maxwell—both members obtained through the club’s connection with McKenna—continue encouraging young people to join Kiwanis.

“Younger members have made the difference and have brought great new ideas to the club,” Larry says. “For example, we’ve started two new Key Clubs and one K-Kids club. Projects are more meaningful and fun.”

For New Braunfels, increased membership brings a better cross section of individuals who are more in tune with the community’s needs. Over a six-month period, the club volunteered at a food bank, read to children, and attended Key Club and K-Kids meetings, in addition to staging two major fundraisers.

“We are very rapidly becoming the third-largest club in Division 5 of the Texas-Oklahoma District,” Larry says. “The key is to develop a club identity within the community you are involved. Have new ideas, new programs, and place the running of the club with the officers and the board.”

During the past year, the New Braunfels club has worked on three major projects that help get members involved in the community. The club also has conducted fundraisers, including “Hooked on Fishing” and an air show during which they sold snacks and beverages.

Plus, with New Braunfels located just northeast of San Antonio, the club is involved in hosting the upcoming Kiwanis International convention.

Larry, who is the host committee chairman for the 2007 Kiwanis International Convention, says the club has attended many convention-planning meetings in which members met other Kiwanis leaders. Connections with other Kiwanis members have sparked new ideas and enthusiasm within the New Braunfels club.

Clearly, things are exciting and busy for this shining troupe of Kiwanians. And with members like Larry, who encourage optimism and continue to boost team morale, the club will only continue blossoming into an energetic, service-driven group.

“Before the club had more than 10 members, it was a struggle to do anything,” Larry says. “We just didn’t have the fun we have now. Our goal over the next two years is to add to our K-Kids program. This is the program that will help our club grow even more.”--Wendy Gould