Kiwanian is the term used to refer to a member of the Kiwanis Club, a global organization dedicated to serving the community. The word is pronounced /kiːwɑːniən/ (kee-wah-nee-un) with emphasis on the second syllable. The spelling of "kiwanian" is derived from the name of the club, "Kiwanis," which itself is a fictional Native American word meaning "we trade" or "we share." Over time, the term "Kiwanian" has become widely recognized and used within the organization and its affiliated clubs around the world.
A Kiwanian is an individual who is a member or actively involved in the international service organization known as Kiwanis. Kiwanians are individuals who have chosen to contribute their time, skills, and resources for the betterment of society, particularly focusing on improving the lives of children in their communities and around the world.
Kiwanians are distinguished by their commitment to serve others and their dedication to fostering positive change. They work collaboratively with fellow Kiwanians and community members to identify local needs and develop impactful projects and initiatives. Through their involvement in Kiwanis, they aim to create a lasting impact on educational, health, and social issues affecting children.
As Kiwanians, these individuals actively participate in various service activities, fundraising events, and programs organized by Kiwanis clubs. Their efforts often encompass a wide range of initiatives, such as organizing literacy programs, supporting youth development projects, providing healthcare access to underserved populations, and promoting community engagement.
Being a Kiwanian is not only about engaging in community service but also about building relationships and fostering a spirit of camaraderie among club members. Kiwanians come from diverse backgrounds and professions, united by their shared values of compassion, inclusivity, and a strong sense of social responsibility.
In summary, a Kiwanian is a person who embodies the mission and values of Kiwanis, actively working towards improving the lives of children and making a positive difference in their communities.
The word "Kiwanian" comes from the organization "Kiwanis International", which is a global volunteer service organization. The etymology of the term is formed by adding the suffix "-ian", denoting a person or member of a group, to the word "Kiwanis". The origins of "Kiwanis" are not entirely clear, but it is believed to be derived from the Ojibwa Native American language, specifically the word "Nunc Kee-wanis", which means "we trade" or "we make a noise". The organization adopted the name "Kiwanis" when it was founded in 1915 to emphasize the importance of community involvement and service. Over time, the term "Kiwanian" developed to refer to an individual who is a member of Kiwanis International.