We made it through another successful scholarship and grant “season” by giving away over $33,000 in scholarships to college bound high school seniors from Samohi, St. Monica’s, Crossroads, PAL and Boys and Girls Club of Santa Monica, and to middle and high school SMMUSD musicians, and to Santa Monica College continuing students. We are thrilled to have started a new Visual Arts Scholarship program this year, awarding over $2200 to students for achievement in painting, film, photography and others. Our grants extend over $56,000 to 28 non-profits organizations serving youth and families on the westside. We know that receiving these funds is beneficial, and sometimes crucial, for these young adults and organizations. The money we give to the students helps not only further their academic pursuits but also lets them know that the community values and applauds their efforts; this is why we give. Being able to participate in the process of awarding these scholarships and grants is also extremely fulfilling for our Kiwanis Club of Santa Monica members. We spend months pouring over applications, meeting candidates, making decisions and planning the awards events. This is our favorite “season” of the year!
To help support these scholarships and grants we are bringing back the annual Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Tournament! This event has been a community favorite for years, and this years’ tournament will be the best by far. There will be great food, great prizes for the winners, other games for the non-competitive, and great fun on Saturday, September 16 from 6PM at the Elk’s Club at 1040 Pico in Santa Monica. Please send a quick email to PokerTournament@KiwanisClubSM.org to be on the invite list.
Also on September 16, don’t miss the Lion’s Club Pancake Breakfast at the Boys and Girls Club on Lincoln. Many of the Kiwanis members will be there supporting this organization that promotes eye health and diabetes prevention in our community.
This fall will be busy with activity including the Kiwanis-sponsored Police Activities League annual Back-to-School backpack give away, the Poker Tournament fundraiser, and our annual Officer Installation on October 1. If you are interested in joining us at any of these events, or others, please email us at info@KiwanisClubSM.org, we’d love to have you.
Since 1922 the Kiwanis Club of Santa Monica has been the most active service organization in Santa Monica; each year the club awards over $120,000 to our community in the form of grants, scholarships and sponsorships. Regular club meetings are the first three Wednesdays of the month. To join us or to donate to Kiwanis Charities, please visit our website, www.KiwanisClubSM.org, or follow us on Facebook at kiwanisclubsm.org.
