Achieving Mid Year Goals
by James C. Minter, ODKF President
As we quickly approach the halfway point of the administrative year let me encourage you to “double down” on completing the goals you have set for your club. We are reminded to be intentional as members of Kiwanis, to fulfill our purpose of serving our communities and schools, helping the children and families in a variety of ways. It starts with preparation and evaluating what we've achieved so far, what needs to be accomplished this month, before Mid Year Education Day, and beyond.
Kiwanis clubs that are working to add an SLP, incorporate a new service project or add two new members, there is sufficient time to complete these goals with support of district leadership, community and ODKF resources. Engage fellow members, other Kiwanis clubs, and certainly ODKF to utilize all available resources. ODKF has grants of $500 to $5,000 that will support many of the club initiative you have set for the year, please reach out and let us know how we can better serve you. If your club is looking for a guest speaker, we can share information about Planned Giving, Key Club and Circle K Scholarships, Ohio License Plate program, or Club Advised Funds. Our ODKF grant programs have awarded over $1,250,000 to Ohio Kiwanis Clubs since 1988 including Governor Project grants. How can ODKF help your club achieve set goals, make your division stronger, and make the district better?
I encourage you to empower the leaders within your club and your SLPs to explore opportunities that will help you build the Kiwanis brand within your schools and community. Think outside the box, break traditions, take calculated risk, work collectively with other clubs and your SLPs to achieve your goals for the year. Expand your reach through social media, community events, take advantage of business chambers, network groups, non-profit organizations, and the resources available.
The next ODKF grant cycle ends March 31. These funds will be awarded in May, so plan accordingly. Visit www.ODKF.org and complete your grant submission forms. Please provide a solid plan of execution with dates, staffing, specific needs, community benefit, and your clubs commitment to the project (sweat equity). These are key items we expect to see when evaluating grant submissions.
In closing, please remember to donate on behalf of your club to the Governor & First Lady service project through the ODKF website. Please plan to participate in the First Family Service Project at Mid Year Education Day. We will have backpacks ready for LTGs and club members to take back to their division that day to be distributed to family centers within your community.
Thanks in advance for your continued support with everything ODKF is trying to do to make your club and the GREAT Ohio District of Kiwanis even better!
In Kiwanis Service,
James C. Minter
ODKF President 2022-2023
ODKFpresident2022@ODKF.org
614-374-3341
