As I reflect on October, I am filled with gratitude for the many opportunities I had to spend time with Kiwanians across our district. Every visit reminded me why I love this organization so much. No matter where I traveled, I was greeted by people who are passionate about serving children, strengthening communities, and making a difference.
The month began in the Pittsburgh area at the Pennsylvania Region II meeting, held at the beautiful Duncan Miller Glass Museum in Washington, Pennsylvania. Trustee Janine Surmick put together an outstanding regional meeting, and it was wonderful to welcome Yvonne Best-Proctor, who traveled in to provide Youth Protection Training. Her presentation reinforced our shared commitment to creating safe and supportive environments for the children and families we serve.
From there, I headed to Region 6 for a Governor’s Picnic with Divisions 17 and 18. The fall air was definitely chilly, but it didn’t slow anyone down. In fact, assembling 50 birthday boxes for children in need kept us busy and warm. Watching members laugh, work together, and focus on helping others was a perfect reminder that service is at the heart of everything we do.
October also brought the joy of celebrating growth throughout our district. I had the privilege of taking part in four club installations and, most excitingly, chartering a new Kiwanis club in Bethlehem. There is something special about welcoming new members into the Kiwanis family. Their excitement, fresh ideas, and commitment to service give me great confidence in the future of our district.
One of my favorite experiences of the month was attending the famous Lititz Chocolate Walk. Thanks to the hospitality of Mark Freeman, the originator of the event, I was able to experience firsthand why this tradition is so beloved. It was a wonderful celebration of community, volunteerism, and, of course, chocolate!
Back at the district level, we held our first Board meeting of the Kiwanis year. The energy, enthusiasm, and dedication of our board members left me feeling optimistic about the work ahead. We also had the honor of taking part in the 111th Farmers Fair Parade in Dillsburg. Walking alongside fellow Kiwanians and sharing the Kiwanis story with the community was a great way to highlight the impact of our organization.
As we move into November, I want to thank each of you for the time, talent, and heart you invest in Kiwanis. Whether you volunteer at a service project, welcome a new member, mentor a Key Club student, or support your local club behind the scenes, you are helping create a brighter future for children.
I am continually inspired by the kindness and dedication I see throughout Pennsylvania. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your Kiwanis journey. I look forward to seeing many of you as our travels continue and our service grows.
Together, we are making a difference, one child and one community at a time.
Please submit your Stories of Service via the District Website.
Last Updated: November 11, 2026 by pennsylvaniakiwanis
Governor October Updates
As I reflect on October, I am filled with gratitude for the many opportunities I had to spend time with Kiwanians across our district. Every visit reminded me why I love this organization so much. No matter where I traveled, I was greeted by people who are passionate about serving children, strengthening communities, and making a difference.
The month began in the Pittsburgh area at the Pennsylvania Region II meeting, held at the beautiful Duncan Miller Glass Museum in Washington, Pennsylvania. Trustee Janine Surmick put together an outstanding regional meeting, and it was wonderful to welcome Yvonne Best-Proctor, who traveled in to provide Youth Protection Training. Her presentation reinforced our shared commitment to creating safe and supportive environments for the children and families we serve.
From there, I headed to Region 6 for a Governor’s Picnic with Divisions 17 and 18. The fall air was definitely chilly, but it didn’t slow anyone down. In fact, assembling 50 birthday boxes for children in need kept us busy and warm. Watching members laugh, work together, and focus on helping others was a perfect reminder that service is at the heart of everything we do.
October also brought the joy of celebrating growth throughout our district. I had the privilege of taking part in four club installations and, most excitingly, chartering a new Kiwanis club in Bethlehem. There is something special about welcoming new members into the Kiwanis family. Their excitement, fresh ideas, and commitment to service give me great confidence in the future of our district.
One of my favorite experiences of the month was attending the famous Lititz Chocolate Walk. Thanks to the hospitality of Mark Freeman, the originator of the event, I was able to experience firsthand why this tradition is so beloved. It was a wonderful celebration of community, volunteerism, and, of course, chocolate!
Back at the district level, we held our first Board meeting of the Kiwanis year. The energy, enthusiasm, and dedication of our board members left me feeling optimistic about the work ahead. We also had the honor of taking part in the 111th Farmers Fair Parade in Dillsburg. Walking alongside fellow Kiwanians and sharing the Kiwanis story with the community was a great way to highlight the impact of our organization.
As we move into November, I want to thank each of you for the time, talent, and heart you invest in Kiwanis. Whether you volunteer at a service project, welcome a new member, mentor a Key Club student, or support your local club behind the scenes, you are helping create a brighter future for children.
I am continually inspired by the kindness and dedication I see throughout Pennsylvania. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your Kiwanis journey. I look forward to seeing many of you as our travels continue and our service grows.
Together, we are making a difference, one child and one community at a time.
Please submit your Stories of Service via the District Website.
Category: Governor Blog