In a community like Myrtle Beach, real impact doesn’t come from one big moment. It comes from people who care enough to stay involved, show up consistently, and keep working toward something meaningful. At Kiwanis Myrtle Beach, that’s exactly what continues to drive everything we do. From literacy initiatives to community partnerships, the focus remains simple and clear: supporting kids and helping them grow with confidence and opportunity. May has been a strong reminder that even the smallest efforts can leave a lasting impression. Why Local Service Matters More Than Ever Serving your own community has a different kind of meaning. These aren’t distant causes or unfamiliar faces. These are the kids, families, and schools that make up Myrtle Beach and the surrounding areas. When local volunteers step in, the impact stays close to home. A child gains access to a book. A student feels recognized for their effort. A program is created that encourages growth and confidence. That kind of support builds something lasting. In Myrtle Beach, community service isn’t just about helping. It’s about strengthening the foundation for the next generation. Creating Opportunity Through Literacy One of the most meaningful ways Kiwanis Myrtle Beach supports local kids is through literacy. The Book Vending Machine project continues to grow, bringing books directly into local schools and giving students the chance to earn something they can call their own. These machines reward effort and improvement, which helps build both confidence and motivation. A book may seem simple, but it carries opportunity. It introduces new ideas and helps children see what’s possible. For many students, it’s also something they can take home and keep, creating a connection to reading that extends beyond the classroom. This project continues to move forward because of the support from the community. Every contribution helps place more books into the hands of kids who need them. Programs That Encourage Growth and Confidence Not every impact is something you can measure right away. Programs like Terrific Kids are built around recognition and encouragement. They focus on effort, responsibility, and improvement. Those are the moments that shape how a child sees themselves. While Kiwanis Myrtle Beach is not currently sponsoring a Terrific Kids program, the goal is to bring one to a local elementary school. That starts with finding a teacher or school leader who is willing to take the lead and help bring it to life. That one connection can open the door for something meaningful. Inclusion and Belonging Through Aktion Club Community impact also means making sure everyone has a place to belong. Aktion Club is one of the most meaningful programs supported by Kiwanis Myrtle Beach. It provides adults with disabilities the opportunity to connect, serve, and grow as leaders within their community. The energy and pride within this group are easy to see. Members support each other, take part in service projects, and build confidence through shared experiences. Programs like this strengthen the entire community by making sure no one is left out of the opportunity to lead and serve. The Power of Showing Up There is something powerful about simply showing up. Kiwanis meetings, community events, and local partnerships all create opportunities to connect with others who care about making a difference. These moments may seem small, but they build relationships that support long-term impact. A conversation at a meeting can lead to a new project. A connection at an event can bring in a new member. A shared goal can turn into a program that benefits hundreds of kids. That’s how momentum builds. A Community Effort That Continues to Grow Myrtle Beach is full of people who care deeply about their community. When those people come together, the impact grows in ways that feel both meaningful and lasting. Kiwanis Myrtle Beach is proud to be part of that effort. The work continues because of volunteers, partners, and community members who believe in supporting kids and strengthening the future of this area. There is always more to be done, and there is always room for someone else to be part of it. Getting Involved in Myrtle Beach Community service doesn’t require a special background or experience. It starts with an interest in making a difference and a willingness to take part. Kiwanis Myrtle Beach meets twice a month and welcomes individuals who want to connect, serve, and be part of something meaningful. Each meeting, project, and program plays a role in building a stronger community. To learn more about Kiwanis Myrtle Beach and how to get involved, visit:www.kiwanismyrtlebeach.com

Spring in Myrtle Beach brings fresh energy, and at Kiwanis Myrtle Beach, that energy is focused on one powerful goal: putting more books into the hands of local students. This April, our Win for the Kids Raffle plays a major role in helping us complete funding for our fourth Book Vending Machine to be placed in a Myrtle Beach school. This project is more than a fundraiser. It is an investment in literacy, encouragement, and opportunity for children in our community. When you support Kiwanis Myrtle Beach, you are directly supporting kids right here at home. What Is the Kiwanis Book Vending Machine Project? The Book Vending Machine initiative is one of our most meaningful literacy efforts in Myrtle Beach. These machines are installed in local elementary schools and allow students to earn books as rewards for positive behavior, improvement, effort, and achievement. Instead of receiving a trinket or small prize, students receive something far more lasting… a book they can take home and keep. Access to books builds confidence. It strengthens reading skills. It encourages curiosity. In communities across Horry County, literacy remains one of the strongest predictors of long-term academic success. By placing Book Vending Machines in schools, Kiwanis Myrtle Beach is creating direct access to reading materials for children who may not otherwise have them at home. Our fourth machine will expand that impact even further. Win for the Kids Raffle: Turning Community Support Into Literacy The Win for the Kids Raffle was created with a clear purpose: finish funding the next Book Vending Machine for a Myrtle Beach school. With only 400 tickets available at $10 each, this raffle has been a simple and accessible way for the community to support local education initiatives. Nine lucky winners will receive $100 each, and every ticket purchased goes directly toward funding literacy support in our area. Fundraisers like this show how local civic organizations can create meaningful change. When neighbors support neighbors, projects that once felt out of reach become possible. The raffle drawing takes place live at a Kiwanis meeting, and winners are publicly posted on our website and social media. Transparency matters. Community trust matters. Impact matters. Why Literacy Matters in Myrtle Beach Strong reading skills open doors. They influence graduation rates, career opportunities, and long-term stability. In many communities, including parts of Myrtle Beach and Horry County, children face barriers to consistent access to books. Some households simply do not have shelves filled with reading material. A Book Vending Machine helps bridge that gap. When a child earns a book, something shifts. Ownership builds pride. Pride builds motivation. Motivation builds confidence. Kiwanis Myrtle Beach focuses on practical solutions that meet real needs. Supporting literacy through school partnerships is one of the most effective ways we serve children locally. How Kiwanis Myrtle Beach Makes an Impact For nearly 30 years, Kiwanis Myrtle Beach has remained committed to improving the lives of children and families through hands-on service, community partnerships, and leadership development. Our initiatives include: Book Vending Machines in local schools Aktion Club for adults with disabilities Partnerships with local nonprofits Community service projects throughout Myrtle Beach Everything we do centers on kids. That mission remains constant. Community Service That Stays Local One of the most important aspects of Kiwanis Myrtle Beach is that the impact stays here. Funds raised here support schools here. Projects developed here benefit families here. The Win for the Kids Raffle is a clear example of local service in action. When someone purchases a ticket, they are supporting a child they may pass at the grocery store or see at a school event. Service feels different when it’s personal. Want to Be Part of the Impact? Community change does not happen by accident. It happens when people choose to get involved. There is always room at the table for individuals who care about education, literacy, and supporting children in Myrtle Beach. Attending a meeting, supporting a fundraiser, or simply learning more about our mission is a great place to start. To learn more about Kiwanis Myrtle Beach, the Book Vending Machine project, or ways to support local literacy efforts, visit: www.kiwanismyrtlebeach.com Together, we can continue putting books into the hands of kids who need them most.

Every child deserves to be recognized. Not just for perfect grades or big achievements, but for effort, improvement, responsibility, and character. That’s exactly what the Kiwanis Terrific Kids program is designed to do. Kiwanis Myrtle Beach is ready to bring Terrific Kids to a local elementary school. Now, we are looking for the right school partner to help us make it happen. What Is the Kiwanis Terrific Kids Program? Terrific Kids is a national character education and student recognition program created by Kiwanis International. The program celebrates elementary school students who demonstrate: Effort Responsibility Improvement Good citizenship Positive behavior Rather than focusing only on top academic performance, Terrific Kids encourages personal growth and positive choices. It recognizes students who are working hard, showing improvement, and building strong character. In today’s world, that kind of encouragement matters more than ever. Why Myrtle Beach Schools Would Benefit Elementary schools in Myrtle Beach and throughout Horry County are filled with students who are trying their best every day. Many of those efforts go unseen. A Terrific Kids program provides structured, consistent recognition that builds confidence and reinforces positive behavior in schools. Students feel seen. Teachers gain another tool to motivate growth. Families see their children celebrated for effort and improvement. Programs like Terrific Kids strengthen school culture and help create a positive learning environment. How the Program Works The Terrific Kids program is simple to implement with the right school partner. Kiwanis Myrtle Beach would serve as the sponsoring organization, providing support, materials, and guidance. The key to launching the program is identifying a teacher, administrator, or staff member at a Myrtle Beach elementary school who is willing to help coordinate meetings and student recognition. Once a school partner is in place, Kiwanis members assist with: Recognition ceremonies Certificates and awards Encouragement and mentorship Community involvement opportunities It is a partnership built around celebrating students and strengthening character development. Building Confidence in Local Students Recognition has power. When students are acknowledged for effort and growth, they gain confidence. When schools emphasize character and responsibility, students rise to meet those expectations. Terrific Kids is more than a program. It is a way to build leadership, responsibility, and self-worth at a young age. Bringing this program to Myrtle Beach would mean more students hearing the words, “We see you. We’re proud of you.” Why Kiwanis Myrtle Beach Wants to Launch Terrific Kids Kiwanis is dedicated to improving the lives of children through service and leadership programs. From literacy initiatives to inclusive programs like Aktion Club, our focus is always on helping kids thrive. Launching a Terrific Kids program in a Myrtle Beach elementary school is a natural extension of that mission. We believe in celebrating effort.We believe in building confidence.We believe in supporting educators. Now we need the right school partner to bring it to life. Do You Know a School That Would Be Interested? If you are connected to a Myrtle Beach elementary school and know a teacher, counselor, or administrator who would be interested in leading a Terrific Kids program, we would love to start the conversation. Starting a Terrific Kids program begins with one committed school leader. Kiwanis Myrtle Beach is ready to sponsor, support, and celebrate students. Together, we can build something meaningful for the next generation. To learn more or to connect us with a school leader, visit: www.kiwanismyrtlebeach.com

A strong community is one where everyone has the opportunity to belong, contribute, and lead. In Myrtle Beach, Aktion Club helps make that possible by creating meaningful service and leadership opportunities for adults with disabilities. Sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Myrtle Beach, Aktion Club is built on inclusion, connection, and purpose. It offers members a welcoming space to grow confidence, build friendships, and make a positive impact through service. What Is Aktion Club? Aktion Club is the only global service organization designed specifically for adults with disabilities. It focuses on leadership development, community involvement, and personal growth through service. Members come together to participate in projects that benefit the community while building skills that support independence and confidence. Aktion Club is not about limitations. It is about ability, belonging, and the power of shared purpose. Members are encouraged to take initiative, support one another, and discover the value of their contributions. How Aktion Club Strengthens the Myrtle Beach Community In Myrtle Beach and across Horry County, Aktion Club plays an important role in building an inclusive community where everyone has a voice. Through regular meetings and service activities, members develop communication skills, teamwork, and leadership experience. These skills extend beyond meetings and service projects and positively influence daily life, relationships, and community engagement. Aktion Club also fosters meaningful social connections. Members form friendships, share experiences, and celebrate accomplishments together. This sense of belonging is a powerful foundation for personal growth and community impact. The Role of Kiwanis Myrtle Beach The Kiwanis Club of Myrtle Beach proudly sponsors Aktion Club as part of its commitment to serving children, families, and individuals of all abilities. Kiwanis provides guidance, resources, and support while empowering Aktion Club members to lead and serve in their own way. This partnership reflects a shared belief that service leadership is for everyone. By supporting Aktion Club, Kiwanis Myrtle Beach helps ensure inclusive service opportunities remain accessible and impactful within the community. Why Inclusive Service Matters Inclusive service strengthens communities by valuing diverse perspectives and abilities. When adults with disabilities are given opportunities to lead and serve, the entire community benefits. Aktion Club demonstrates that leadership grows through encouragement, opportunity, and trust. Members gain confidence by contributing to real projects that matter. Communities grow stronger when everyone is included and supported. Aktion Club Meetings in Myrtle Beach Aktion Club meets monthly at the Low Country Food Bank in Myrtle Beach. Meetings provide a consistent and welcoming environment for members to connect, plan service activities, and enjoy time together. Upcoming meeting include:February 27 at 1:00 PM Low Country Food Bank4716 Northgate Blvd, Myrtle Beach These gatherings are a cornerstone of the program, offering structure, encouragement, and opportunities for leadership development. Who Aktion Club Is For Aktion Club is open to adults with disabilities who are interested in service, leadership, and community involvement. Members come from a variety of backgrounds and experiences, united by a shared desire to give back and grow together. Family members, caregivers, and community partners are encouraged to learn more about Aktion Club and support its mission. Involvement helps strengthen connections and expand opportunities for inclusive service. Building a Community Where Everyone Belongs Aktion Club is a powerful reminder that service is not defined by ability. It is defined by heart, commitment, and the desire to make a difference. Through leadership development, meaningful service, and inclusive community building, Aktion Club continues to create positive change in Myrtle Beach. It offers members the chance to grow, contribute, and belong while strengthening the community as a whole. To learn more about Aktion Club and how Kiwanis Myrtle Beach supports inclusive service, visit www.kiwanismyrtlebeach.com

Fall along the Grand Strand means more than cooler weather and colorful leaves. It is a season filled with community traditions, family fun, and opportunities to give back. At the Kiwanis Club of Myrtle Beach, October is a time when service and celebration go hand in hand. Between pumpkins, pancakes, and partnerships, fall reminds us why we love coming together to serve children and strengthen our community. Pumpkins: A Season of Smiles Nothing says fall like pumpkins on porches and jack-o’-lanterns glowing at dusk. But beyond the decorations, pumpkins represent something bigger: joy, creativity, and togetherness. That is why our Kiwanis members love supporting local fall festivals and Halloween events. Each pumpkin carved or costume worn is a reminder that kids deserve safe, fun experiences and that our role as a community is to make those memories possible. Pancakes: Fellowship with Flavor No fall season is complete without our Kiwanis pancake traditions. Pancake breakfasts have long been a favorite fundraiser, combining the comfort of a warm meal with the joy of seeing neighbors gather around the table. Every plate served supports our mission of helping children, whether it is through literacy programs, scholarships, or youth leadership initiatives. Pancakes bring people together, and when people come together, amazing things happen. Partnerships: Strengthening Community Impact Behind every successful Kiwanis event are the businesses, schools, and community partners who step up to lend their support. From sponsoring youth programs to donating supplies for local projects, our partners are at the heart of what we do. These connections remind us that service is not a solo act. It is a community effort. Partnerships ensure that our impact goes further, reaching more children and families right here in Myrtle Beach. Why It Matters Pumpkins, pancakes, and partnerships may sound simple, but together they reflect the essence of Kiwanis. We celebrate traditions that make people smile, share meals that bring people together, and build relationships that strengthen our community. As we head deeper into fall, we invite you to join us in these traditions because when we serve, kids win.

Starting the Year With Purpose in Myrtle Beach January is a time for fresh focus, renewed energy, and meaningful goals. For the Kiwanis Club of Myrtle Beach, the new year begins with a continued commitment to serving children, strengthening community partnerships, and creating opportunities that make a lasting impact. Service is not seasonal. It is a year-round promise to show up for kids and families when it matters most. As the year begins, Kiwanis Myrtle Beach remains focused on programs that support education, character development, and community connection across the Grand Strand. Supporting Kids Through Hands-On Service Everything Kiwanis does centers on helping kids thrive. Literacy initiatives and school partnerships are just a few of the ways our service projects meet real needs in the Myrtle Beach community. One of the club’s ongoing priorities is supporting young people through programs that encourage learning, confidence, and positive behavior. By working alongside local schools and organizations, Kiwanis creates experiences that remind children they are valued and supported by their community. Building Literacy and Opportunity Literacy continues to be a key focus for Kiwanis Myrtle Beach. Book Vending Machines placed in local schools reward positive behavior while giving students the excitement of choosing a book they can keep. These machines encourage reading and help build lifelong learning habits. As the new year begins, Kiwanis is working toward final funding for its fourth Book Vending Machine, which will be placed in a Myrtle Beach school. Projects like this create tangible outcomes that benefit students, teachers, and families. Serving Young Adults and Strengthening Community Partnerships Kiwanis service extends beyond schools. Each month, club members provide meals and support for Seahaven Center Young Adult Services, serving young adults ages 18 to 24. This consistent partnership helps build connection, dignity, and encouragement for individuals navigating important life transitions. Community partnerships like these highlight how collaboration leads to meaningful impact. By supporting local organizations, Kiwanis strengthens the entire Myrtle Beach community. Celebrating Character and Inclusion Kiwanis Myrtle Beach also supports programs that recognize character, leadership, and inclusion. The Terrific Kids program celebrates students who demonstrate responsibility, kindness, and effort in the classroom, reinforcing values that support both academic and personal growth. The Aktion Club, a Kiwanis-sponsored service leadership program for adults with disabilities, offers opportunities for leadership, service, and belonging. These programs remind us that service is for everyone and that inclusion strengthens communities. Learning, Leadership, and Community Awareness Monthly Kiwanis meetings bring members together to learn, connect, and grow. Guest speakers and community leaders share insights that help strengthen awareness and support informed action. These gatherings create space for collaboration and thoughtful conversation around issues impacting Myrtle Beach. January meetings help set the tone for the year ahead, offering opportunities to reflect on past successes and align on future goals. Why January Is a Great Time to Get Involved The start of a new year is a natural time to look for purpose and connection. Kiwanis offers a welcoming space for people who want to give back, build friendships, and be part of something meaningful. Members come from all walks of life, united by a shared commitment to helping kids and strengthening the Myrtle Beach community. Every new member brings fresh ideas, energy, and perspective that help expand the club’s impact. Join Kiwanis Myrtle Beach When we show up for kids, the whole community grows stronger. January is an invitation to begin the year with purpose, service, and connection. To learn more about Kiwanis Club of Myrtle Beach, upcoming meetings, and opportunities to get involved, visit www.kiwanismyrtlebeach.com Together, we can continue creating positive change for kids and families throughout Myrtle Beach.

A Season of Service in Myrtle Beach December brings a mix of celebration, reflection, and renewed purpose for our members. The Kiwanis Club of Myrtle Beach remains committed to the well-being of local children, families, and schools throughout the holiday season. While many people focus on gifts and gatherings, our club concentrates on community service, strong partnerships, and opportunities that inspire hope. The holiday season highlights the importance of giving back. In Myrtle Beach, many families face challenges that can feel heavier this time of year, and this is why the work of Kiwanis stays so important. Our club supports meaningful service projects that provide encouragement, stability, and joy to children across the Grand Strand. One of the most valued efforts this month includes reading with students at the Horry County Adult Education Center. A simple story can spark confidence, curiosity, and new ways of thinking for young learners. Moments like these help build stronger connections between students, volunteers, and the community. When children feel supported, they are more likely to thrive academically and socially. Literacy engagement continues to be a vital part of our mission, especially during the winter months. December also brings together the generosity of our members through seasonal service events and celebrations. These gatherings offer time to reflect on the impact created throughout the year and help build energy for what is ahead. Kiwanis volunteers stay active in projects that uplift local schools, support youth programs, and strengthen community relationships. Every hour spent in service builds a foundation of kindness that reaches far beyond the holiday season. Another highlight this month is the planning process for our next Book Vending Machine installation. The fourth machine is expected to be placed in a local school in 2026. These machines reward positive behavior, encourage reading, and give students the pride of choosing a book they can keep. Identifying the next school will help continue our mission of inspiring literacy throughout Horry County. As we celebrate another successful year, the Kiwanis Club of Myrtle Beach looks ahead with gratitude and optimism. The achievements of 2025 were possible because of the dedication of our members and the support of local partners who believe in creating a positive future for children. Service remains at the center of everything we do, and we are ready to continue that work into 2026. If you have been looking for a way to contribute to meaningful change in Myrtle Beach, Kiwanis welcomes you. Volunteers of all ages and backgrounds can play a role in helping children grow, learn, and succeed. New members bring new ideas and fresh energy, and every person has something valuable to offer. To learn more about upcoming service opportunities, community projects, and ways to get involved, visit www.kiwanismyrtlebeach.com December is the perfect time to reconnect with what matters most. Together, we can build a brighter, stronger Myrtle Beach.