About our Kiwanis club

Kiwanis Club of Champaign-Urbana repacked over 5,000 diapers for the United Way in 2023.

The Champaign-Urbana Kiwanis Club had its official beginning when its charter was issued May 18, 1921. Kiwanis International was just six years old at that time.

Our history has been an eventful one. Our club has produced one International President, four District Governors, and 17 Lieutenant Governors. Our earliest project, starting in 1922, still continues: C-U Kiwanis annually honors the University of Illinois basketball team in what is believed to be the longest-running annual collegiate honors banquet.

The Kiwanis Mission & Vision

Kiwanis empowers communities to improve the world by making lasting differences in the lives of children. Kiwanis strives to be a positive influence in communities worldwide — so that one day, all children will wake up in communities that believe in them, nurture them and provide the support they need to thrive. Our Kiwanis club fulfills the Kiwanis mission by serving our community through Kiwanis Community Service Projects

Kiwanis Service

The welfare of our young people is not only a goal but also a reality for those we serve. Over fifty years ago, early in the history of Little League baseball nationally, Champaign-Urbana Kiwanis introduced Little League to the twin cities and continues to be its sponsor today. In 1990, a new league, the Peanut League, was added to the program.

The innovative Tom Jones Challenger League baseball program, serving those youngsters who are physically and/or mentally challenged, has been a rewarding opportunity for our members to serve the community since 1997.

Young Children Priority One has been an important effort in serving the children of Champaign County. YCP1 supports 20 local non-profit organizations with financial contributions.

C-U Kiwanis helped establish the Arrowhead Council Boy Scout camp, which was named after a club member. The club also purchased land near Lake of the Woods for a Girl Scout camp, which bears the name Camp Kiwanis. The club continues to offer financial support and volunteer hours for development and upkeep of the camp.

Our sponsorship of Circle K at the college level and Key Clubs in the Champaign Centennial and Urbana high schools are continuing projects.

Join Us

Are you ready to help create communities that let all children thrive, prosper and grow? It’s pretty easy to do! Simply contact us with your questions and apply for Kiwanis club membership here.

The kids in our community and the world are counting on you!

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