08/23/2026
Why 25+ KWC?
Back in December 2020, just as the Covid scare was easing, Vanessa McClary called me and asked if I wanted to join a new kind of Kiwanis club.
She explained the concept: Kiwanians from anywhere in the world could join, but the club would be based here in Indiana. We’d meet quarterly on Zoom, hear from up to three Indiana organizations serving kids, vote on the one that inspired us most, and then each member would send in a $100 check. No fundraising events, no committees — just pure, direct giving.
As someone newly retired, I thought, “A second Kiwanis club that meets quarterly and doesn’t require me to run around? I can do that.”
I fell in love with 25+ almost instantly. The people were fun, engaging, and familiar — like a bunch of good Kiwanis friends gathering on Zoom with snacks, drinks, and a shared mission. It was Kiwanis without the travel, the setup, or the cleanup… what’s not to love?
More than five years later, I still feel the same way. The organizations we hear from are so worthy that I often wish I could give $100 to each — but my humble bank account taps me on the shoulder and reminds me to behave.
And I especially enjoy our annual meeting with Riley Hospital when we collectively support the latest Indiana Kiwanis initiative.
Every quarter when 25+ meets, I’m proud of the organizations we learn about, happy for those we support, and glad to gather with Kiwanian friends from near and far. This club is simple, meaningful, and full of heart. I’m so glad I said “yes” to Vanessa, but let’s face it, who in their right mind says “no” to her?
Kiwanis Hoosier Division 25+ Kiwanians Who Care