The Kiwanis Club of La Cañada launched a holiday season of giving by contributing to 10 local groups and organizations for combined donations totaling $16,700 to help fund far-reaching programs.

Kiwanis President Trish McRae said, “Members have stepped up to help make the season brighter for others. Together we aim to fulfill our tagline of ‘Be Kind, Be Cool, Be Our Guest’ by helping our community thrive and inspiring our youth to be their best.”

Presentations went to the Community Center of La Cañada Flintridge, the LCHS Chamber Singers, La Cañada Flintridge Sister Cities Association, La Cañada Flintridge Tournament of Roses Association, YMCA of the Foothills and La Cañada Engineering Club. Turkeys were purchased and distributed to needy families through the Pasadena Junior Chamber of Commerce. The Kiwanis Club also matched the funds raised by the spirited LCHS 7 /8 Builders Club for a total contribution of $1,000 to go to Kiwanis International’s Treat or Treat for UNICEF to help children in critical need. In addition, $1,000 was bestowed to Foothill Families in time for its holiday program and $5,000 dedicated to Father’s House, serving displaced children from the Ukraine. The year’s final event was a service project for Five Acres Children Services. Members made donations, which included matching funds, for a total of $3,200 in gift cards and other presents that went towards a holiday “wish list” for 38 children.

To learn more about Kiwanis, attend a meeting with featured speakers or go to a “K-Mix” monthly networking evening social for members and business members, email kiwaniscluboflacanada@gmail.com or call (818) 495-5141.