Onboarding of New Members

Kiwanis International is a global organization dedicated to improving the lives of children and communities through service projects, fundraising, and volunteerism. Onboarding new members to Kiwanis International is an essential part of growing the organization and ensuring that new members understand their role in the community and the opportunities available to them.

Here’s a general overview of the typical onboarding process for new Kiwanis members:

1. Welcome and Introduction
   • Welcome Message: New members usually receive a welcome message from the club president or the membership committee.
   • Club Orientation: Members are often invited to attend an orientation meeting where they will learn more about the club, its history, mission, and the various service projects and activities it organizes.
   • Introduction to Club Leadership: New members are introduced to the key leaders within the club (President, Vice President, Treasurer, etc.), who can guide them throughout their Kiwanis journey.
2. Explanation of Kiwanis Values
   • Mission and Vision: New members are educated on Kiwanis’ mission to serve children and communities, as well as the organization’s global impact.
   • Core Values: The club highlights the organization’s core values of service, leadership, and
     community involvement.
3. Kiwanis Club Structure
   • Local, District, and International Levels: New members are informed about the structure of Kiwanis, including the local club, the district (which represents a region of clubs), and the
     international level. They are encouraged to understand how each level operates and how they
     can contribute.
   • Opportunities for Leadership: New members learn about opportunities for leadership roles within the club, from serving on committees to becoming officers or board members.
4. Membership Benefits and Expectations
   • Benefits: New members are informed about the benefits of being a Kiwanian, including
     networking opportunities, professional development, and the satisfaction of making a tangible
     difference in their communities.
   • Commitment and Expectations: Kiwanis typically has expectations around attending meetings, participating in service projects, and contributing to fundraising efforts. New members are made aware of these expectations upfront.
   • Financial Information: They are provided with information about membership dues, as well as the costs associated with events, meetings, and service projects.
5. Service Projects and Volunteering
   • Involvement in Service Projects: New members are encouraged to participate in the club’songoing service projects. They learn about the variety of projects Kiwanis clubs are involved in, such as supporting local schools, health initiatives, and youth programs.
   • Hands-on Opportunities: Members are given specific opportunities to engage in hands-onvolunteer work or assist with event planning for fundraising and community service activities.
6. Mentorship
   • Assigned Mentor: Some Kiwanis clubs assign a more experienced member as a mentor to help guide the new member during their initial months in the organization.
   • Regular Check-ins: The mentor may meet with the new member regularly to discuss their
     experience, answer any questions, and help them integrate into the club.
7. Social Integration
   • Club Meetings and Social Events: New members are invited to attend regular club meetings, social gatherings, and other events to help them connect with fellow members.
   • Fellowship Opportunities: Kiwanis often offers social events, such as banquets, fundraisers, and community celebrations, where new members can meet people from other clubs and form connections.
8. Global Opportunities
   • District and International Conventions: New members are informed about the larger Kiwanis community through district or international conventions and meetings where they can learn from other clubs and leaders, exchange ideas, and gain inspiration.
   • International Service Projects: Kiwanis clubs often engage in international service projects, and new members are introduced to the possibility of participating in global initiatives, particularly those that focus on children’s health and education.
9. Feedback and Continuous Improvement
   • New Member Feedback: Clubs may regularly ask for feedback from new members on their onboarding experience to improve the process for future members.
   • Engagement Tracking: Clubs may track the engagement of new members, ensuring they are participating in meetings, projects, and other events to make sure they feel supported.
10. Completion of Onboarding
    • Welcome Ceremony: Some clubs hold a formal ceremony to welcome new members officially, where they receive a Kiwanis pin, membership certificate, and other materials.
    • Completion of Initial Training: After attending a few meetings and participating in service
      projects, the new member is often considered fully integrated into the club and its activities.
      By making the onboarding process clear, welcoming, and engaging, Kiwanis clubs can ensure that new members feel connected and prepared to make a meaningful impact.

Now please welcome the following new members of our district:
Kelly Lombardo and Jennifer Shukaitis – Kiwanis Club of Stroudsburg
Donald Wagner – Kiwanis Club of Tyrone
Robert Matz – Kiwanis Club of Erie
Michelle Collins – Kiwanis Club of Freeport
Madeline Schuettler – Kiwanis Club of Pottsville
Allen McCormack – Kiwanis Club of Linglestown
Amber Shatto – Kiwanis Club of Harrisburg
Melinda Woodruff – Kiwanis Club of Williamsport
Brooke Patterson – Kiwanis Club of Shenango Valley
Kristie Williams and Camilla Houy – Kiwanis Club of Altoona
Jennifer Miller – Kiwanis Club of Sheraden
Thomas Phillips and Grev Hunt – Kiwanis Club of Franklin
Carole Moon – Kiwanis Club of Fort LeBoeuf