A Cup of Coffee with The Kiwanis Club of Middleburg Heights
Dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time, the Kiwanis Club of Middleburg Heights is an active force for good in our city.
We sat down with the club’s leadership to learn more about who they are, what they do, and how residents and local businesses can get involved.
WHO is the Kiwanis of Middleburg Heights?
Q: Who is the Kiwanis of Middleburg Heights, and who makes up your membership?
A: The Kiwanis Club of Middleburg Heights is part of Kiwanis International, a global volunteer organization founded in 1915. Our members come from all walks of life: teachers, healthcare professionals, business owners, retirees, and civic leaders. What unites us is a shared passion for serving children and strengthening our community.
Q: Who benefits most from the programs and services you provide?
A: Our greatest impact is on local youth. We sponsor service clubs at every school level: K-Kids in elementary schools, Builders Club in middle school, Key Club in high school, and Circle K in college. These programs teach leadership, community engagement, and teamwork. We also provide scholarships, holiday food donations, and community service opportunities that benefit families across the city.
Q: Who can join?
A: Anyone who lives, works, worships, or has an interest in Middleburg Heights is welcome. We are a non-denominational, inclusive organization open to everyone who wants to make a difference.
WHAT is the Kiwanis of Middleburg Heights?
Q: What is the mission and purpose of your club?
A: Our mission follows the Kiwanis motto: “We Build.” Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time. Locally, that means encouraging leadership, promoting service, and supporting projects that uplift kids and families right here in Middleburg Heights.
Q: What types of projects or events do you organize throughout the year?
A: Our members stay busy. A few of our ongoing projects include:
- Flags of Freedom Fundraiser – patriotic flag displays at City Hall and the Recreation Center campus
- ODOT Adopt-a-Highway Cleanups at the I-71 and Bagley Road interchange
- Scholarships for local high school students
- Holiday Treat Bags distributed to area food pantries
- Support for the Stroker’s Golf League, a recreational program for stroke survivors
We also help student service clubs with financial support and volunteer mentorship.
Q: What makes your local chapter unique?
A: Our hands-on approach with youth programs truly sets us apart. We don’t just fund projects; we mentor students, guide their service efforts, and celebrate their successes. That one-on-one connection keeps our mission personal and meaningful.
WHERE is the Kiwanis of Middleburg Heights?
Q: Where do you meet and can the public attend?
A: We meet regularly right here in Middleburg Heights. Guests and prospective members are always welcome. Just reach out for meeting details.
Q: Where do your projects take place?
A: You’ll find us all over the city, from maintaining the Adopt-a-Highway site at Bagley and I-71 to organizing displays at City Hall and the Recreation Center. We’re proud to serve wherever our community needs us.
Q: Where can residents learn more about your activities?
A: The easiest way is to contact one of our club officers or follow community updates shared through city channels and social media.
WHEN is the Kiwanis of Middleburg Heights?
Q: When does the club meet?
A: We typically meet twice a month to plan projects, hear from guest speakers, and coordinate volunteer efforts. Interested guests can contact us for the next meeting date.
Q: When are your major events or volunteer opportunities?
A: Our activities run year-round. We host cleanups in the warmer months, the Flags of Freedom display in summer, scholarship awards in spring, and food drives and treat-bag projects around the holidays.
Q: When is the best time to get involved?
A: Anytime. There’s always something happening, and new members are welcome year-round.
HOW can you get involved?
Q: How can residents join the Kiwanis?
A: It’s easy. Just contact us to attend a meeting or volunteer at an event. New members are sponsored by a current member and officially inducted into the club. All members receive training on youth interaction and community service standards.
Q: How can people volunteer if they can’t commit to full membership?
A: We welcome anyone who wants to lend a hand at individual projects. You can help with a cleanup, assist with Flags of Freedom, or support a student initiative. No long-term commitment is required.
Q: How can local businesses or organizations partner with the Kiwanis?
A: Businesses can sponsor events such as Flags of Freedom, contribute to scholarship funds, or collaborate on service projects. These partnerships show a shared commitment to our city’s youth and future.
CONTACT / NEXT STEPS
- For membership: Jon Karl, Club President: jgmmk@aol.com 440-759-5510
To learn more or volunteer, reach out today. All we need is you!
The Kiwanis Club of Middleburg Heights continues to build a stronger, more connected community, one child and one project at a time!
