Kiwanis Objectives

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.

What Is Kiwanis?

"Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time." This is the defining statement of Kiwanis which ties in closely with the motto, "Serving the Children of the World."

The name "Kiwanis" was coined from an expression in American Indian language of the Detroit area, Nunc Kee-wanis, which means "we trade" or "we have a good time."

But Kee Wanis seeks to conceptualize an idea of making a community its best by starting with the individual. Wilma Mankiller, former chief of the Cherokee Nation, describes the Indian concept as one common to all cultures. She refers to the concept as "The Good Life."

In one word, the Indians were attempting to say how to accomplish the highest goals for the community. Each person in the community cares about the others. Each person in the community operates by the Golden Rule. Everyone benefits by every effort put forth.

The idea that makes Kee Wanis is set forth in the Six Objectives of Kiwanis. Kee Wanis was combined into one word, "Kiwanis." Applying these Kiwanis Objectives to life through service, individuals, businesses, the community and the nation will develop with is best for everyone.