Club History

The Kiwanis Club of West Palm Beach was chartered in 1921 as one of 7,700 clubs in 80 countries. Our motto is "Serving the Children of the World".
 

    

 
  • The Kiwanis Club of West Palm Beach was charted August 21, 1921.
  • One of the first acts of the newly formed club was to begin a program for the care of the underprivileged children.  For many years "A Show of shows for underprivileged children" was held at the Paramount Theatre on Palm Beach. Each year an all-star cast performed for  capacity crowds. Some of the over 400 entertainers who offered their talents throughout the year included: George Gershwin, W.C. Fields, Victor Borge, Henny Youngman, Burgess Meredith, Morton Downey, Jack Dempsey, Eddie Cantor, Ed Sullivan, Babe Ruth, Danny Kate, and Jack Benny to name a few.
  • Surgical and Dental clinics were sponsored by the Kiwanis Club to benefit these children.  
  • In 1966, the club formed a foundation, thanks to a large estate gift, to help the club serve children.  The club has raised additional funds through the years with projects such as a fishing tournament, to fund its community service activities.  The club's signature project is providing college scholarships for students in financial need, a service that has grown to providing over $250,000 annually to about 80 students.  
  • The club celebrated its 100th birthday in 2021.
 
Related Items