Brief History of Kiwanis

The first Kiwanis club was organized in Detroit, Michigan. The group received a charter from the state of Michigan on January 21, 1915, and this is regarded as the birth date of Kiwanis.

The first clubs were organized to promote the exchange of business among the members. However, even before the Detroit club received its state charter, the members were distributing Christmas baskets to the poor. A lively debate ensued between those who supported community service as the Kiwanis mission and those who supported the exchange of business. By 1919, the service advocates won the debate.

For more details go to Alabama KIWANIS History

The current Kiwanis Club of Phenix City was chartered on May 7, 1998.

Currently we have 14 members and sponsor Central High Key Club,  Lakewood and Sherwood K-Kids clubs.

We had a annual Great Race in May each year and a 5K Fun Run in October to raise funds to support our sponsored youth and scholarship programs. This year we are hosting a different event to replace our golf tournament. It is called The Great Race of Phenix City.

We have conducted RIF (Reading Is Fundamental) sessions at Headstart, 5K Fun Run, and assisted in Child Safety Seat program with the Exchange Club and the Phenix City Fire Deaprtment.

We are Partners in Education with the Phenix City Schools and have adopted Lakewood Elementary School

Future plans call for creating corporate partners in sponsoring K-Kids Clubs at all Phenix City Elementary Schools as well as a Builders Club at Phenix City Intermediate School.