Our History
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. In 1919, the organization changed its focus to service. By 1962,
worldwide expansion was approved. In 1987, women officially were allowed into
the membership.
The Objects of Kiwanis International
The Objects of Kiwanis International were originally adopted many
years ago to identify what Kiwanis was all about. These Objects are just as meaningful
today. Consider these Objects:
To give primacy to the human and spiritual, rather than to the
material values of life.
To encourage the daily living of the Golden Rule in all human
relationships.
To promote the adoption and the application of higher social,
business, and professional standards.
To develop, by precept and example, a more intelligent, aggressive,
and serviceable citizenship.
To provide, through Kiwanis clubs, a practical means to form enduring
friendships, to render altruistic service, and to build better communities.
To cooperate in creating and maintaining that sound public opinion
and high idealism which make possible the increase of righteousness, justice, patriotism,
and good will.
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