Rhonda has updated the calendar on the Kiwanis homepage. She reminded everyone that the Supper Social is at Ivars Pub on Tuesday, Jan. 24th at 6:00 pm. There was discussion about sitting on the patio which Kelli assured us will be warm. Let her know as soon as possible if you are attending.
Kelli reported that the Program committee met. They are working on getting speakers who are entertaining, educational and will attract new members. Names of speakers/presenters should be given to Jennifer or Moe in a timely manner to be posted on the newsletters so members and guests will know in advance for the upcoming meetings.
Lon addressed the construction on Hwy. 123 that is happening directly around the San Marcos Kiwanis Club signage. It was noted that the sign can be moved if need be.
PROGRAM;
Moe introduced speakers Kirsten Bortze and Cari Borremans from the Hays County Women's Center who gave us a good overview of all the Center has to offer in services and support for those who have been victims of abuse. In their mission statement they state: "The purpose of HCWC is to create an environment where violence and abuse are not tolerated in the communities we serve. The Center will provide education, violence prevention services and crisis intervention to victims of family violence, dating violence, sexual assault and child abuse." They have a shelter on site, transitional housing (Marla's Place) that can be used for short term housing while finding more permanent housing, free counseling, a Support Group, an Advocacy Center for Children (Roxannes's House) that includes Forensic interviews. and a Donation Center for necessary daily living supplies such as clothes and baby goods. They post a weekly list on Facebook for what they need. Money donations, donations such as toiletries and diapers, and volunteers are always needed.
The Center reaches out to middle and high school students to increase awareness. They also work with Texas State U. fraternities, sororities and other organizations.
The need for all of these services continues to grow, unfortunately. They provided support to over 2,200 community members face-to-face last year. There is a 24/7 Helpline. The Helpline calls answered for 2023 were 3,963.
May 18th they will hold an auction fundraiser. They welcome donations of items for this. It will be held at the Texas State ballroom this year.
UPCOMING PROGRAMS:
Jan. 25th: Christy Guenther with Team Haiti.
Feb.1st: Mark Andrews with Hays County Sheriff's Office will talk about Sunshine Kids.
EVENTS:
Jan. 24th: Supper Social at Ivar's Pub, 6:00 pm.
Regular Reminders:
Don't forget to click "like" and "share" on Facebook and other social media to promote the Kiwanis Club. We need to keep getting the club's name out there to promote our community involvement and to add new members to help in our endeavors.
Be sure to check the Calendar posted on the San Marcos Kiwanis Club website to stay up-to-date on what is happening.
Humor and Musings:
This week John is providing the humor. His caption for this:
"This guest speaker pending Lon's approval."
INVITE A FRIEND to visit us at an upcoming meeting.