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Welcome
to the What
does the name Kiwanis mean? The name Kiwanis was adapted from the expression "Nunc Kee-wanis" in the Otchipew Native American language, meaning "We have a good time," "We make a noise" or under another construction, "We trade or advertise." Some people prefer to pronounce the word "ki"; others "kee". At the organization's founding in Detroit, Michigan, January 21 1915, members belonged to the "Benevolent Order of Brother," and its purpose was the mutual exchange of preferred treatment in professional and business dealings. Within a year, hoping to find a better name, a committee of members sought the assistance of Clarence M Burton, then historian for the City of Detroit, Michigan. Burton found the expression
"Nunc Kee-wanis" in Bishop Baraga's dictionary of the Otchipew
language. The name was then changed to Kiwanis, and also in that year, the
purpose of the organization became "community service," a concept
from which Kiwanis has never deviated. A little later, Kiwanis bought itself
from organizer Allen Simpson Browne, become incorporated, and began following
a growth pattern that continues today. In 1916, Kiwanis Clubs began in Canada
(Hamilton Ontario). Then, in 1962, Kiwanis spread to Mexico and to the rest
of the world where it now serves communities in 80 countries. About
Kiwanis | Saratoga Springs Kiwanis | |
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