Community members interested in service projects benefiting local children and families are invited to attend an informational meeting next week about establishing a Kiwanis Club in Wylie.

The meeting will be held at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, June 18, at Napoli’s Italian Restaurant, 701 N. State Highway 78, Suite A.

Representatives from the Texas-Oklahoma Kiwanis District and local members will be on hand to answer questions, discuss volunteer opportunities and gather input from residents about community needs and potential service projects.

Marshall Kregel, marketing director for the Texas-Oklahoma Kiwanis District, said the organization offers members a chance to make a meaningful difference while building relationships with others who share a commitment to service.

“We’re trying to find out if there is a real good need for one,” said Randy McDaniel, a trustee for the Texas-Oklahoma Kiwanis District and former president of the Allen Kiwanis Club. “And if there is, we will try to build one.”

McDaniel said most new clubs meet twice a month. “One week is a formal meeting and the following meeting may be a service project.”

Kiwanis International is a global service organization dedicated to improving the lives of children and strengthening communities through volunteerism. Local clubs identify needs within their communities and develop projects ranging from literacy initiatives and scholarship programs to food drives, youth leadership programs and support for local nonprofits.

According to organizers, a Wylie club could focus on reading programs, youth leadership activities, science and math fairs, parent education opportunities and support for local students. Organizers are also seeking ideas from residents about projects that would best serve the community.

One of the organization’s signature youth programs is Key Club, a student-led service and leadership group found in many high schools. McDaniel said Wylie High School currently has a Key Club, but it is not sponsored by a local Kiwanis chapter.

McDaniel said Kiwanis clubs often support food pantries, clothing closets and other programs that directly or indirectly benefit children. In Allen, the local Kiwanis Club also awards college scholarships and partners with students on volunteer projects.

“Kiwanis clubs provide a great opportunity to meet new friends who believe in serving their communities, networking with business professionals and making a significant impact on the community through volunteering,” Kregel said. “Kids need Kiwanis, in our community and in communities around the world, so they can grow up in a world where they are happy, healthy, safe and loved.”