The Kiwanis Club of Clermont has had a busy and successful year so far, marked by a series of impactful projects, community events, and notable accomplishments. Here’s a recap of their milestones from January to May 2024:
January
The year started on a high note with the completion of the “Light Up Center Lake 2023” project, which will undergo upgrades and repairs through May. The club welcomed a new member, enhancing its vibrant community. Demonstrating its commitment to local causes, the club made a $1200 sponsorship donation to the Greater Clermont Cancer Foundation. In a gesture of community spirit, the club hosted guests from the soon-to-be-chartered Friendship Place Aktion Club and welcomed Sheriff Peyton Grinnell as a guest speaker. The club also celebrated its 98th birthday, marking nearly a century of service.
February
None of the student names were made available.
February saw the chartering and celebration of the new Friendship Place Aktion Club at the DReamPlex, a significant addition to the Kiwanis family. Preparations for the annual Prayer Breakfast program began, showcasing the club’s forward planning. The K-Kids thank you party at Mascotte Charter School was a heartwarming event, appreciating students for their holiday projects. A $500 sponsorship donation was made to Thrive of Clermont, reinforcing the club’s dedication to local initiatives. The month concluded with preparations for the March Easter events.
March
In March, the Kiwanis Club’s presence was felt across various platforms. Members attended a multi-division Division Council Meeting and picnic at Lake Idamere Park in Tavares. The club sponsored a hole in the South Lake Junior Women’s Club golf tournament and represented itself at the South Lake Think Tank meeting. Attorney Patrick Smith’s talk was a highlight, providing valuable insights. The club initiated a new “Swim Safety Program” for the South Lake Community, funded by a $750 grant. The Easter events included hosting a family event at the Clermont Historical Village for clients of Find, Feed and Restore, participating in Hands of Hope’s Easter event, and joining a spring kick-off event by Cagan Property Management.
April
April was another busy month, starting with the club’s representation at the Wreaths Across America mobile display hosted by the American Legion. Members diligently prepared literature for the swim safety program. The Friendship Place Aktion Club’s park cleanup project saw enthusiastic participation from Kiwanis members. Guest speakers included Melissa Roy, E.D. for Love Groveland, and Brian Bulthuis, Clermont’s City Manager. The club supported USA Veterans during their reunion and sponsored a table at the Greater Clermont Cancer Foundation’s fundraiser. Key Club activities were robust, with members hosting Key Club students for an evening meal, chaperoning the Key Club Florida District Convention, and assisting Building Blocks Ministries with their annual shoe drive. The month ended with participation in the Miracle League’s Spring season closing game day.
May
May brought financial successes and community engagements. The Prayer Breakfast raised $6000, benefiting The Neighborhood Center and Read to Sydney with $3000 each. The club contributed to Building Blocks Ministries’ “Muffins with a Mission” fundraiser and took part in the annual MVA family fun day. Education and literacy remained priorities, with the conclusion of the Terrific Kids and BUG programs, an end-of-year party for Mascotte Charter School’s K-Kids, and the installation of the 10th lending library box at Friendship Place. The club celebrated at the Head Start Graduation Party and hosted a family picnic at the Clermont Historic Village. The highlight was sponsoring 14 Key Club Scholarships, totaling $23,000, underscoring the club’s commitment to youth and education.
The Kiwanis Club of Clermont’s dedication to community service and enhancement is evident in these achievements. Their efforts continue to make a significant impact, fostering community spirit and supporting local initiatives.
