“Serving the Children of the World.” That’s not just a motto it’s the driving force behind Kiwanis International. We are standing in front of a legacy that began right here in Toronto.
Kiwanis International started as the Kiwanis Club of Toronto in 1917. It was one of the first clubs in Canada. Now, it has grown into a global network. There are over 7,700 clubs in 80 countries.
The Kiwanis Club of Toronto has always focused on helping young people. Members come from all walks of life. Younger people, older people, professionals, and entrepreneurs all join. They share a common goal to make a difference. They build lasting friendships while doing good.
Are you passionate about service? Kiwanis can help you turn that passion into action. Members identify needs in the community. They create projects that make a real impact. Kiwanis clubs offer personal growth opportunities. Members donate their time and raise funds for important projects. They show how much a small group can achieve.
Kiwanis has a mandate to improve its community. It also engages in global initiatives. The Kiwanis Club of Toronto meets regularly. They meet at The National Club on Bay Street. This happens twice a month. It’s on the second and fourth Wednesday for lunch. Committees also meet to plan service projects. They focus on their local areas.
Kiwanis members are guided by specific principles. These principles shape their actions. They prioritize human and spiritual values. They encourage living by the Golden Rule. They promote high ethical standards in all areas of life. They aim to develop responsible citizens. Kiwanis provides a way to form friendships. It also allows members to offer selfless service. It helps build stronger communities. Members work together to create positive public opinion. They promote righteousness, justice, and good will.
The Kiwanis Club of Casa Loma, for example, saved Casa Loma in 1936. They transformed it into a top tourist attraction. For over 75 years, the club managed Casa Loma. They used the proceeds to fund community services.
Kiwanis empowers communities. It improves the world by helping children. It strives to create supportive communities for all children. The Kiwanis Club of Casa Loma fulfills this mission. It serves the community through various projects. Kiwanis clubs worldwide carry out countless service projects. They raise millions of dollars every year. Members work together to achieve what one person can’t do alone.
Kiwanis clubs focus on serving children. They often sponsor other clubs. These include K-Kids for primary schoolers. There are also Builders Clubs for adolescents. Key Clubs are for teens. Circle K clubs are for university students. Aktion Clubs support adults with disabilities.
BGC Toronto Kiwanis has a long history. It began as the Kiwanis Boys Club of Toronto in 1921. The Kiwanis Club of Toronto was a founding partner. In 1939, they purchased a building on Spruce Street. In 1974, the club welcomed girls. It became the Kiwanis Club of Toronto Boys and Girls Clubs. In 1992, it became a separate not-for-profit.
In 2021, the organization adopted the name BGC Toronto Kiwanis. It reflects their inclusive approach. Today, BGC Toronto Kiwanis continues to offer programs and services. These benefit the community. They build on a 100-year legacy.
As you explore Toronto remember the Kiwanis International. Think of their work. They focus on serving children. Their legacy is a testament to what a group of dedicated people can accomplish. They embody the spirit of service. They demonstrate the power of community.