Division 01-S
K #05299
Chartered on September 29, 1960, through the sponsorship of the Kiwanis clubs of Lima and Van Wert counties, the Kiwanis Club of Paulding County has continuously worked to strengthen families through the support of character-building programs and activities for youth. Kiwanis International was founded in 1915 in Detroit, Michigan. In the early years, members focused on business networking. In 1916, Kiwanis became an international organization with the creation of the Kiwanis Club of Hamilton, Ontario. By 1962, worldwide expansion was approved. In 1987, women officially were allowed into the membership. When Paulding's club was formed, men joined representing a wide array of professions. The twenty-five original members came from diverse areas including law, business, government, education, construction and insurance. It is interesting to note that a few of the sons and a daughter of those original Kiwanis members are now also members of this diverse and active club. In the early decades, along with weekly informative and entertaining speakers for members, Kiwanis sponsored educational and programs and travelogues for the general public. Kiwanis has also faithfully sponsored youth attendance at formal leadership-building programs such as Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership and Buckeye Boys and Girls State as well as local activities such as support for scouting and other youth events. In the mid 2000s, the Kiwanis Club helped develop and support a fall youth soccer league which has provided an opportunity for hundreds of children to learn sportsmanship and teamwork. The primary project for Paulding County's club continues to be the Kiwanis Community Center located in the building that was originally an armory. This building is kept and maintained for youth and family activities such as Youth for Christ, basketball tournaments, dances, concerts, youth fund-raisers for cancer research and family reunions.
