Nepal Kiwanians are helping flood victims
One club‘s team is on the scene, and the Nepal District offers you a way to donate.
By Tony Knoderer
Photo by Rizen Khadka, Kiwanis Club of Kriti Kathmandu, Nepal
In the wake of flash flooding that tore through border areas of Nepal and Tibet on August 26, the Kiwanis Club of Kriti Kathmandu has stepped up to help nearby communities. After the collapse of a glacier, massive torrents of water and mudslides damaged and destroyed homes, schools, roadways and more — creating a humanitarian crisis in which more than 1,000 people have died and many more are missing.
The club’s team has reached the Nepalese towns of Trishuli and Nuwakot, where it is helping conduct a field assessment of the needs of thousands of children and families. The team will coordinate with local authorities to provide relief materials.
“Our deepest appreciation and heartfelt gratitude go to the team for showing that Kiwanis is not only a name,” the Kiwanis Nepal District said in a post on its Facebook page. “It is a promise to serve when our communities need us most.”
How you can help
The Kiwanis Nepal District has established a relief fund and is asking the Kiwanis family for support. For clubs and districts that want to give, information is available here. Donations will help provide:
- School supplies, books, uniforms and learning materials.
- Support for children who have lost parents or homes.
- Temporary learning centers where schools are unusable.
- Repair of damaged classrooms.
Please note: The fund was established and is administered by the Kiwanis Nepal District. It is not affiliated with the Kiwanis Children’s Fund, and it is not held or audited by Kiwanis International. Contributions should not be assumed to be tax-deductible in the United States.
See the Rose Parade with Kiwanis
An exclusive five-day tour provides prime seating and behind-the-scenes experiences.
By Ellie Howe
Each New Year’s Day since 1965, Kiwanis members have seen their organization’s float on television during the Tournament of Roses Parade (also known as The Rose Parade) in Pasadena, California, U.S.
Now you can get firsthand experience of this world-renowned tradition. Exclusively available to Kiwanians and their guests, our five-day tour takes place from December 29, 2026, to January 2, 2027 — providing unparalleled access to the people, stories and connections that make this event unforgettable.
What to expect
The adventure begins in Los Angeles, California, where registrants will meet with fellow Kiwanians and kick off their New Year experience. Guests who arrive early can even take part in the excitement of float decoration.
Then it’s time for an exclusive Kiwanis luncheon, featuring a special opportunity to meet and connect with 2026-27 Kiwanis International President Hope Markes.
The excitement builds with a visit to a Tournament of Roses float barn and an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the 2027 Kiwanis International float as it nears completion. Along the way, you’ll explore some of Southern California’s most iconic attractions, including Hollywood and Santa Monica Pier.
You also have the option of attending a lunchtime meeting of the Glendale Kiwanis Club, where you’ll hear from Kiwanis International Executive Director Paul Palazzolo, as well as the presidents of Circle K International and Key Club International. (The lunch will be an additional cost.) You can evenhelp decorate the float after the meeting!
On New Year’s Day, you’ll experience the legendary parade with premium seating that puts you among the first to view the floats — including Kiwanis International’s as it takes center stage.
After the parade, Floatfest allows you to stroll among the floral creations up close, taking in the incredible detail and the thousands of flowers that make each float a masterpiece.
When the five-day tour comes to an end, you’ll return home with new friendships, lasting memories and the shared experience of celebrating the new year with fellow Kiwanians.
Package and pricing
When you sign up for the experience, you’ll get:
- Prime seats at the Rose Parade’s starting point
- A four-night stay at the Sheraton Gateway Hotel
- Complimentary airport transfers
- Seven meals (breakfasts and lunches)
- Hotel taxes and resort fees paid
- Gratuities for wait staff and drivers
Packages start at just US$1,498 per person (double occupancy).
Kiwanis members can save an additional US$50 per person by using promo code KIWANIS when booking. Optional activities, including the Rose Bowl football game, are available at an additional cost. Round-trip airfare is not included.
Reserve your spot
Act fast — space for this exclusive Kiwanis International experience is limited! Join fellow Kiwanians from around the world as we celebrate the new year and experience the magic of the iconic Rose Parade.
Ready to start 2027 with a once-in-a-lifetime experience? Sign up today!