Methods of membership growth 

Methods of membership growth 

From service to testimonial videos, one U.S. Kiwanis club is increasing membership in multiple ways.

By Tony Knoderer

In addition to service that makes a difference, there are several ways for a Kiwanis club to thrive — from fellowship among members to communication beyond the club. 

The strongest clubs excel at all of them. For example, the Kiwanis Club of Carolina Forest, South Carolina, U.S., started in November 2023 — and already has over 30 members. Loren Korn, the club’s membership committee chair, shares how they did it, with some possible points of inspiration for your club. 

Spread the word!
“We share our meetings, service projects and birthday celebrations on Facebook and Instagram — along with Testimonial Tuesday videos, where members say why they joined or love Kiwanis Carolina Forest. We’ve also had success with word of mouth. We ask members to bring one friend to a meeting, and that’s also been helpful.” 

Build a culture of fellowship
“Kiwanis Carolina Forest is unique because of our diverse ages and backgrounds. Our second monthly meeting is a happy hour where we get to know each other and form friendships. It’s our favorite meeting by far! It also garners a lot of attention on social media — that’s how we got a few new members.” 

Have a signature project
“Our main project is called the Kiwanis Kloset, where we provide new clothing and toiletries to schools to help students in need. We also serve a monthly dinner to the kids at an emergency shelter called Sea Haven.” 

Stay active in service and fundraising
“We just partnered with Freedom Readers to build free mini-libraries, and a couple of us volunteer to read with the kids once a week. We do several fundraisers, including golf tournaments, trivia nights and bowling. We’re also working on a Kids Business Expo that will be held in April.”   

To see more of the Kiwanis Forest Club’s online presence, check out its Facebook page — which includes a video series of Tuesday Testimonials from members. 

10 reasons to attend the 2025 convention

10 reasons to attend the 2025 convention

From education and fellowship to inspiration and celebration, it’s the year’s biggest Kiwanis event.

By Julie Saetre

Get ready: The 2025 Kiwanis International Convention is on the horizon! We’ll gather in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, U.S., June 25-28. Register now to join your fellow Kiwanians for the biggest event of the year — and to help forge the future. 

Here’s why you’ll want to be there: 

  1. Dynamic educational workshops and classes. Explore the ways Kiwanians are building new clubs and gain insight into expanding and nurturing your club’s membership. Learn how to make your club attractive, meaningful and enjoyable for all generations. Dive into master classes that go deeper into leadership training and community service, with subject-matter experts as your guides. Our workshops will get you ready to tackle a to-do list designed to take your club — and Kiwanis — to the next level. 
  2. The Convention Kickoff. Start your experience with a celebration of Kiwanis. The opening session features beloved actor, producer and author Henry Winkler. You’ll be inspired by Winkler’s story and his commitment to helping children reach their full potential. 
  3. Membership Fair and Welcome Reception. Looking for recruiting inspiration? Pick up tips from clubs that have been recognized for their growth efforts after using Two For Two, club boosts, open houses, guest days or their own membership drives. During the Welcome Reception, visit vendors, meet candidates and enjoy entertainment and refreshments. New this year: a DJ and door prizes! 
  4. Fellowship with Kiwanians from around the world. Take time to relax with longtime Kiwanis friends and new connections. Join fellow Kiwanians for the Sunset Social, a special party on the rooftop of the David L. Lawrence Convention Center with finger food, a cash bar and entertainment. On Saturday night, mingle at the Gatsby-inspired bar or hit the dance floor during our Roaring 20s Gala. 
  5. CKI members. Circle K International — the Kiwanis service program for university students — is holding its convention alongside ours at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center! Stop by the CKI booth in the Kiwanis Marketplace to meet some of its members — and learn about the amazing work they do on their campuses, in their communities and around the world! 
  6. Kiwanis Launchpads. There will be two Kiwanis Launchpads this year. Designed to be short and high impact, these presentations will send you home with ideas and inspiration. The first Launchpad will celebrate Key Club’s 100th anniversary by featuring alumni who credit much of their success to the values and skills they learned in Key Club. At the second Launchpad, you’ll hear from the director of the Fred Rogers Institute, as well as an engaging speaker who will teach you how to find joy in conflict through curiosity.  
  7. Kiwanis Marketplace. This is your go-to hub at the heart of the convention. Shop, snap photos, snag swag and more. Here, you’ll find exhibitors and Kiwanis partners who can inspire fresh ideas on impactful service projects and effective fundraisers. You can also browse Kiwanis-branded merchandise, including special-issue 2025 convention items. Meet the candidates running for international officers and trustees. Learn about your host city. Get details about our ongoing Build. Nurture. Retain. membership initiative. Explore the new Kiwanis Engage membership platform. And more! 
  8. 2025 Kiwanis Annual Meeting. Get informed about the business of Kiwanis International and add your voice to our future. Delegates from clubs around the world will elect the organization’s next leaders and vote on amendments. 
  9. Celebrations. From the Welcome Reception and the Convention Kickoff to the Kiwanis Roaring 20s Gala, you’ll celebrate Kiwanis and the amazing work our clubs and members accomplish every day. Have breakfast with our Signature Project Contest finalists (and see who wins the big prizes). Enjoy lunch on Thursday while learning about The Possibility Project’s Generosity Challenge and on Friday while marking Key Club’s milestone centennial birthday. And get ready for a night of glitz and glamor at Saturday night’s Roaring ’20s Gala. 
  10. Our host city. Pittsburgh is a versatile destination brimming with discoveries. From the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, you’ll have easy access to the Cultural District, the historic Strip District and the Allegheny River. You’ll also be located near shops, restaurants, galleries and theaters. From sightseeing to the sports scene, breweries to bistros, and amusement rides to museums, Pittsburgh has something for everyone! 
Our new podcast

Our new podcast

Kiwanis International is pleased to introduce you to our new podcast. Check out this brief introduction!