Kiwanis in Action

Kiwanis Events & Community Impact

At Kiwanis, we believe in bringing our community together and making a difference—one project, one event, and one child at a time. Our club hosts a variety of annual events that fundraise for children’s programs, create fun community experiences, and support local organizations.

Annual Events

• Candy Days – Our members collect donations at local stores and street corners to support children’s charities.
• 4th of July Pancake Breakfast – A Lake Bluff tradition since 1972, serving pancakes rain or shine to raise funds for community projects.
• Gorton Center Events – From Cornhole Classic tournament to Trunk-or-Treat, our activities bring families together while supporting local causes.
• Pancake Breakfast with Santa – A festive, family-friendly event that spreads holiday cheer while raising funds for children’s programs.
• Roadside Cleanup – We manage and maintain the area along Sheridan Road from Rt. 176 to Moffett Road, keeping our community safe and beautiful.
• And so much more! – Throughout the year, we organize and participate in events that strengthen our community.

Past Community Projects

Over the years, Kiwanis has supported projects that enhance education, accessibility, and recreational opportunitiesfor children and families:

• 2016 – Ramp at Lake Bluff Middle School (our first project)
• 2017 – Smart boards for Lake Bluff Park District Pre-School
• 2018 – Sports wheelchairs for GLASA & AEDs for Lake Bluff and Lake Forest schools; Back-to-school backpacks (annual commitment begins)
• 2019 – Pergola and garden equipment for Deerpath Middle School; Zodiac MILPRO Life Safety boat for Lake Forest Parks and Recreation
• 2020 – Music playground equipment at Mawman Park, Lake Bluff
• 2021 – Technology equipment for Lake Bluff Public Library – Children’s Department
• 2022 – 5-year commitment of diaper donations to Keeping Families Covered
• 2023 – ADA sailboat for Lake Forest Parks & Recreation; Kiwanis Child Care Grant at College of Lake County (annual)
• 2024 – Interior buildout at Gigi’s Playhouse new location in Deerfield, IL
• 2025 – Music instruments for Bravo Waukegan; Pack and Play sets for Mother’s Trust Foundation

Looking Ahead: Future Projects

Kiwanis is always planning new ways to support children, families, and our community. Upcoming projects for 2026 include:

• Blair Park Pool Patio Improvements – Expanding the main pool area with a patio, tables, pergola, and shaded seating to create a safe, fun, and accessible gathering space for all.
• Knollwood Park Baseball Field Improvements – Upgrading the baseball fields with improved surfaces, seating, and amenities to provide a safer, more enjoyable experience for youth sports and community events.

Through these initiatives, Kiwanis continues its mission to strengthen the community, foster opportunities for children, and create lasting impact.

Please let us know if you have any suggestions for future projects.

Are you ready to join us? Contact us or apply for Kiwanis club membership here