As we move into June, I want to take a moment to thank everyone who has helped make this Kiwanis year such a success. Over the past several months, our members have shown up in countless ways to support our mission. From celebrating students through our Terrific Kids rallies, to recognizing young leaders at our Washington Winning Warriors events, to volunteering at the Midwest Food Bank, your commitment to serving others continues to make a difference throughout our community. 

We also enjoyed a great program this week from Lucie VanHecke with the Illowa Construction Labor & Management Council. Lucie provided valuable insight into workforce development, apprenticeship opportunities, and the important role the skilled trades play in building our communities. Thank you to Lucie for sharing her expertise and helping us learn more about the opportunities available in our region. 

Looking ahead, we're excited to welcome Jack Cullen from the Rock Island Downtown Alliance and Rock Island Parks and Recreation on June 8. Jack will share updates on the many exciting events, activities, and happenings planned throughout Rock Island this summer. It promises to be a fun and informative program, so be sure to join us. 

As a reminder, there is still time to support the Rock Island Kiwanis Club through Birdies for Charity. If you haven't already made your pledge, please consider doing so before the end of June. Every donation helps us continue funding scholarships, grants, youth programs, and community service projects. 

And while summer is just beginning, it's not too early to start thinking about one of our favorite annual initiatives- our Bike Fundraiser. We'll be kicking off preparations in July, and we're looking forward to another year of putting bikes into the hands of children and families who will benefit from them most. 

Thank you for all you do to make the Rock Island Kiwanis Club a force for good in our community. Together, we're continuing to invite, inform, inspire, and make an impact every day.

Sincerely,
President Joan

Announcements

Upcoming Programs:

Monday, June 1st Lucie Van Hecke, Illowa Construction & Labor Management Council
Monday, June 8th TBD
Monday, June 15th Board Meeting
Monday, June 22nd Lola VanDeWalle, Quad Cities Veteran Outreach Center
Monday, June 29th No Meeting
Monday, July 6th Norm Moline, Central Asia