WILLEMSTAD - Kiwanis International, a global volunteer organization dedicated to community development and the welfare of children, was the focal point at the Kiwanis Club district convention held in Panama this past September. With representatives from various countries, including Curaçao, the event not only addressed the local impact of Kiwanis but also emphasized the importance of its six core values. These values—humanity, justice, charity, fellowship, service, and leadership—have been the foundation of Kiwanis' mission for over a century and were celebrated during the convention as guiding principles for the organization's future work.
During the convention, speakers like former Governor Anthony Haile of the ECC District (Eastern Canada and the Caribbean) discussed the growing role of Kiwanis in the Caribbean region. This district includes Curaçao, Aruba, Bonaire, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago, and is known as the Trade Wind Division. Curaçao currently has two active clubs: Kiwanis Club Curaçao, which will soon celebrate its 60th anniversary, and Kiwanis Club Piscadera, marking its 30th year.
Pictured on the far right: Anthony Haile
Haile highlighted the strong presence of Kiwanis in Panama, where the organization is well-known. This was evident at a well-attended bingo event organized to raise funds for children's projects. In addition to the convention program, excursions to Panama's interior were arranged, allowing members to see firsthand how Kiwanis supports children in underprivileged communities.
The convention also highlighted the celebration of the 100th anniversary of Kiwanis' six core values, which were commemorated earlier this year during the international convention in Denver. These values, unchanged since the organization's founding in 1915, continue to drive Kiwanis' mission and reinforce its commitment to social engagement.
According to Haile, the Kiwanis Club remains dedicated to community projects and child welfare, underscoring the enduring relevance of its core values across generations. In the coming months, club members will share more about their experiences in Panama, focusing on visits to projects that contribute to the support and protection of children.