Kiwanis Club of Owen Sound Celebrates 100 Years of Community Service
The Kiwanis Club of Owen Sound celebrates 100 years of service with a City Hall flag raising, a centennial gala, and the launch of a commemorative book detailing a century of community impact.
The Kiwanis Club of Owen Sound is marking a major milestone this year as it celebrates its 100th anniversary of service to the community.
Founded in 1925, the local service club has spent the past century supporting youth, families, and community initiatives in Owen Sound and surrounding areas. In recognition of the club’s centennial, a series of events are planned throughout April and May.
On April 14, representatives from the Kiwanis Club will address Owen Sound City Council, offering a presentation that highlights many of the organization’s longstanding contributions to the city.
Later in the month, on April 28 at 10:00 a.m., the Kiwanis flag will be raised at Owen Sound City Hall in honour of the club’s enduring presence.
The main celebration will be held on May 10 at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre, where more than 200 guests—Kiwanis members and dignitaries from local, provincial, and international branches—will attend a centennial gala.
The keynote address will be delivered by Kiwanis International Vice President Hope Markes, with Eastern Canada & Caribbean District Governor Pam Rodney-White also attending as a special guest. Both guests are travelling from Jamaica to take part in the celebration.
A highlight of the evening will be the launch of a new commemorative book, A Century of Service: The Kiwanis Club of Owen Sound, authored by Richard J. Thomas. The publication chronicles the club’s formation in 1925 and its continued efforts to serve the community over the past 100 years.
“Our centennial is not only a celebration of the club but a recognition of the community support that has enabled us to reach this milestone,” the Kiwanis Club stated in a release. “We look forward to another century of service.”
Throughout its history, the Kiwanis Club of Owen Sound has been known for its support of youth programs, community enrichment projects, and charitable initiatives. Signature efforts include the annual Santa Claus Parade, the Kiwanis Music Festival, and a range of scholarships for local students.
Infrastructure contributions such as the Kiwanis Soccer Complex, the Bike and Skate8 Park, and the accessible playground at Harrison Park reflect the club’s lasting impact on local recreation and inclusivity.
The club also supports social initiatives, including the Kiwanis OSHaRE kitchen, the Children’s Room at Chapman House hospice, annual Christmas tree sales, and the Kiwanis Kids Outreach program, which assists local families in need.
For more information on the club’s centennial celebrations or to learn more about its ongoing programs, residents can visit kiwanisowensound.ca.