The West Side Kiwanis Club is gearing up for its annual project to clothe 120 children from six elementary schools.
"Our main goal is to clothe the children of the West Side," said Bob Harding, club president. "We work all year to do this. We have concessions at West Virginia Power games, Vandalia and other activities like car shows. We sell hot dogs."
Also, area businesses have boxes where donations may be dropped off for the clothing drive.
"Every penny we raise goes right back to the children," Harding said. "We try to clothe 120 children every December. We have been blessed to have $120 for each child. That will buy three pairs of pants, three shirts, underwear and socks. Charleston Department Store is our partner."
On Dec. 9, Key Club members from Capital, George Washington and Nitro high schools will help the younger kids shop for clothes. Children to receive clothes are selected by principals and counselors at the respective West Side elementary schools.
Through a Key Club, an arm of Kiwanis, youth are encouraged to reach out and work with the community. A new club is in the works at South Charleston High School.
Each year, the Kiwanis Club presents a scholarship to two Key Club members. Last year's scholarships were $500 for each student.
The younger children are more comfortable shopping with teenagers than adults, Harding said. Kiwanis Club members provide candy and fruit on the day of the Kiwanis Shopping Spree.
Harding first joined the club in 1990 because he was drawn to its international objective of serving the children of the world. Founded in 1915, the organization has 600,000 members in 96 countries.
The West Side Kiwanis Club was chartered Sept. 25, 1959 with 36 members. The club now has 23 members. They come from all walks of life from business owners, retailers and doctors to bankers and retirees.
"We do have women in our club," Harding said. "That started in the late '80s or early '90s. They are very vital to our club. We have nine ladies. Out of that nine, six have been president."
Harding began his one-year term as president in October.
"My objective is to boost membership," he said.
There is an application process with membership to be approved by the board. Members are to be good citizens and have a desire to help children. Membership fee is $50.
Harding hopes to bring new members on board who will keep clothing West Side kids.
Meetings are held noon Thursdays at the Charleston Civic Center. For more information call Harding at 340-4740. |
