The Kiwanis International Board of Trustees extended a declaration that emergency conditions exist because of the COVID-19 pandemic. This declaration lasts until September 30, 2022. The board believes the COVID-19 virus or a mutation will continue to impact operations of the organization.  

“We took this unprecedented step to give Kiwanis clubs and districts the flexibility they need to organize the 2021-22 administrative year according to the conditions in different communities and jurisdictions,” said Peter Mancuso, 2021-22 Kiwanis International president. “Our top priority is the safety and well-being of our members and communities. This action will help organizers make responsible decisions, especially when planning for Kiwanis, Key Club and Circle K district conventions.”

When the Board of Trustees first issued the declaration in April 2020, it asked all leaders and staff to focus on the immediate needs of the clubs and members. Kiwanis International has compiled guidelines for clubs and districts to help members continue serving safely with adequate health protocols:

• Follow all federal and local laws. The Kiwanis International Bylaws require clubs and districts to comply with laws of local jurisdiction in all areas of operation. This is especially important as it relates to health and safety laws, such as the size of gatherings, social distancing and mask requirements. 
• Coordinate with meeting venues regarding social distancing requirements, mask requirements, food service, surface cleaning, etc. 
• Require all attendees to be fully vaccinated or obtain a negative COVID-19 test before meeting. This should be strongly considered for any gatherings of 50 or more people. 
• Require all meeting attendees to sign waivers that state that anyone who believes they may have contracted COVID-19 at a Kiwanis event waives all related claims against any Kiwanis club, district or Kiwanis International. Any meeting of youth members (younger than 18) in the Kiwanis family will require a signature from a parent or legal guardian. A sample waiver is included here.
• Ask all attendees to certify that they have not experienced any common COVID-19 symptoms in the past 72 hours. A list of common COVID-19 symptoms can be found here.  

“I’m asking you to help keep children safe by getting the COVID-19 vaccine,” said Mancuso. “Because we’re in the business of protecting children, we need to offer the best protection possible and offer the gift of health. If you haven’t gotten a vaccine, please do. You are protecting yourself, your family and friends and your community — including children.”

Find resources and information to help keep your club operating — so you can keep making a positive difference for kids in your community — at kiwanis.org/covid.