Orlando Kiwanis Club

ABOVE: News photo of the new Kiwanis Club of Orlando officers for 1968: Harry Bower, president, Gene Bond, president elect, Don Barbour, treasurer, and Andy Serros, vice president. Courtesy of the Harry Bower Kiwanis Club Archives.

“Kiwanis Club of Orlando is a community service organization where professionals, retirees, students, and civic volunteers all come together with one common goal: serving the needs of children in Central Florida.

Kiwanis Club Orlando has a rich history as one of the oldest Kiwanis clubs in the state and the nation.  Dating back to 1921, Kiwanis Club of Orlando has served the needs of Central Florida children, all while fostering a camaraderie between club members from all walks of life.”  — KiwanisOrlando.org

ABOVE: January 5, 1968 Kiwanis Club of Orlando newsletter.  Courtesy of the Harry Bower Kiwanis Club Archives.

ABOVE: Telegram from Pat Garvey, President of the Bishop Moore Key Club sent from the Key Club International Convention in Toronto to John Becht, in Orlando, Florida, July 11, 1968.

Excerpt:…through caucuses and general sessions we can now fully realize how wonderful you and downtown Kiwanis are…  Courtesy of the Harry Bower Kiwanis Club Archives.

ABOVE: December 11, 1968 photo of Kiwanis state governor LeRoy Dickson meeting Orlando Kiwanis Club President Charlie Bowen and President-Elect Gene Bond. Courtesy of the Harry Bower Kiwanis Club Archives.

ABOVE: Kiwanis state governor LeRoy Dickson meeting Orlando Kiwanis Club President Charlie Bowen (left) and President-Elect Gene Bond (center), December 11, 1968. Courtesy of the Harry Bower Kiwanis Club Archives.

In 2021, the Kiwanis Club of Orlando, “one of Central Florida’s most active and involved community service organizations, celebrates 100 years of helping children! The club has contributed more than $7.5 million to community organizations in addition to countless thousands of hours of volunteer time. We will celebrate our century of service throughout our entire 100th year (which began October 1) with a wide variety of special events, including a 100-Year Anniversary Gala Fundraiser!” — KiwanisOrlando.org